5 Great Ideas for Your Virginia Mountain Vacation

Take a Virginia mountain vacation and you’ll find yourself in a mountain paradise with the Shenandoah Valley on one side and the Blue Ridge Mountains on the other. This makes for some truly stunning scenery and remarkable opportunities for things to do just outside of Harrisonburg. You’re going to love your Virginia mountain vacation no matter the time of year! Here are five great ideas for your time here!

When you’re looking for things to do near Harrisonburg, VA, be sure to download our free Vacation Guide! It’s full of the best things to do in the area, including some of our favorite attractions, restaurants, and places to stay. At By the Side of the Road Inn & Cottages, we want you to have the very best vacation here. Download it today!

Virginia Mountain Vacation Activities You Don’t Want to Skip

Skyline Drive

Harrisonburg, VA is located in the beautifully scenic Shenandoah Valley which is home to Skyline Drive. Cruise the 105-mile drive, winding around the mountain top along the spine of Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains taking in the natural beauty of Shenandoah. There are 75 scenic overlooks that offer stunning views as well as ample opportunities to witness wildlife in their natural habitats. For those looking for a more active way to see the park, take to any of the 500 miles of trails located within the park and get an up close look at Shenandoah’s splendor.

The Shenandoah River

Yet another experience that is bound to be breathtaking is exploring the Shenandoah River. Snaking through the Shenandoah Valley, take some time to hike along its shores, or even rent a canoe or kayak and get on the water. Seeing the countryside along the river will be such a treat, as well as witnessing the fauna of the forest scurrying along the riverside.

The Grand Caverns

The Grand Caverns are among the closest caverns near Harrisonburg VA. Guided by experienced personnel, the tour takes about 70 minutes and consists of about a mile of walking at a leisurely pace. For the more adventurous among you, the Fountain Cave is a sister cave to the Grand, and visitors can plan on touring it during the summer months. This is a more strenuous tour involving difficult physical activity and is perfect for anyone with an interest in caving. Grand Caverns is open year-round and is home to multiple exhibits through which visitors can learn about its history.

Shenandoah National Park Hiking Trails

Shenandoah National Park has a whopping 500 miles of trails, about 30 percent of which are in designated wilderness areas. About 100 miles of the trails are actually part of the Appalachian Trail, as well. It’s easy to head to the Shenandoah National Park Hiking trails from Harrisonburg. The closest entrance to the park, Swift Run Gap, is an easy 20-mile drive from the inn. Be sure to fuel up with a delicious breakfast before you head out on your adventure!

Learn More About Shenandoah Valley Civil War History

The vast majority of the battlegrounds of the Civil War are all in the south. The Shenandoah Valley Civil War grounds have been preserved to tell the story of the war that raged through its midst, nearly dividing our beloved country in two, as Confederate corps tried to lay siege to Washington DC and other northern cities through this protected valley. When you visit the area, you’ll be hard pressed not to rub up against the Shenandoah Valley Civil War history scattered across these beautiful hills.

The Best Place to Stay for Your Virginia Mountain Vacation

Now that you know of these fantastic ideas for your Virginia mountain vacation, you can look forward to your time here even more! The last thing you need is a place to stay. That’s where we come in. At By the Side of the Road Inn & Cottages, our beautiful and historic rooms and cottages are the perfect solution for your lodging needs. Spacious rooms and wonderful amenities will complement your vacation here. So, why wait? Browse our availability today and see for yourself how great a Virginia mountain vacation can be! Contact us today to book your Shenandoah getaway.