Off the Beaten Path: Virginia

They like to remind us that they are the Commonwealth of Virginia. Virginia is one of our oldest and most historic states and have many wonderful areas that are off the beaten path. 

They try hard to live up to their famous slogan “Virginia Is For Lovers.”

The John Smith Trail is one of their real Off The Beaten Path destinations. You can retrace Captain John Smith's journey by land or water, the James River trail extends from the falls of the James in Richmond to Hampton Roads and includes over 35 points of interest related to Smith's journeys and nearby sites that interpret the early colonial experience in Virginia.

A second trail to consider is the Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Water Trail, the nation's first water trail. As you retrace the adventures of Jamestown's storied hero, you will discover the Virginia he knew, its natural splendor and rich Native culture.

This portion of the water trail encompasses three rivers, from Yorktown on the York River, to Zoar State Forest on the Mattaponi and Williams Landing on the Pamunkey. The driving tour circles the York portion of the river on both sides, following a portion of the Colonial Parkway, and connects to two Indian reservations on the Pamunkey Neck. The water trail is divided into three maps, one for each featured river.

You can travel past towns, farms and forests, imaging the abundance that greeted Smith and his fellow Englishmen: Great schools of fish teamed in the clear river, trees grew broad and tall along the shore, and overhead birds flew in flocks so thick the sky darkened as they passed.

If you are looking to cut new paths in fresh snow this time of year the verdict is In: Virginia's Mountain Resorts are adrenaline junkie approved. The five major mountain resorts are Bryce, The Omni Homestead Resort, Massanutten, Primland and Wintergreen They are Virginia's - four-season havens offering a plethora of outdoor activities for the whole family or just the two of you. 

Each resort has its own feel, but the truth of the matter is that regardless of which you choose, you won't go wrong.  The snow sports resorts (all but Primland) offer the following during winter to create your perfect mountain wonderland:

100% snowmaking
Skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, snowtubing, snowmobiling, winter zip line
Ski schools for adults and children
Spas, indoor swimming pools, and even indoor tennis

Virginia has a bit of everything and fun for everyone.

Let Rawhide Travel and Tours help you with all your reservation needs. Call us at (602) 843-5100 or visit our website: rawhidetravel.com.

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Rawhide Travel and Tours Inc.
6008 West Bell Rd # F105
Glendale, Arizona 85308-3793
602-843-5100
rawhidetravel.com