Exploring the great outdoors is a perfect way to spend your day. Virginia’s parks provide the opportunity to enjoy all that Mother Nature has to offer. When you’re ready for mountains and breathtaking scenery, here are six of our favorites near Floyd, VA:
1. Fred Clifton Park
Fred Clifton Park is located on Route 708, just off State Road 8. The park provides stunning views of the North Blue Mountain ridge. The hiking trails take you to an elevation of 2,930 feet, where you can observe the natural beauty of colorful birds and other wildlife. The park has a picnic area as well as restrooms and grills.
2. Rocky Knob Recreation Area
Rocky Knob Recreation Area is located on State Route 8 near the town of Floyd. The area has four trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. A group picnic shelter, campground, and restrooms are also available. Rocky Knob is over 4000 acres and includes stunning views of over 50 native tree varieties, wildflowers, and wildlife like wild turkeys, deer, and bobcats.
3. Smart View Recreational Area
The Smart View Recreational Area is located along the Blue Ridge Parkway and has lovely views. The forests and open fields are favorites of avid bird-watchers during spring migration.
If you like to hike or walk, you can take the Smart View Loop Trail for views of the surrounding mountains. The 3-mile trail is relatively level, with several places along the way to stop and sit down for a picnic or take pictures. The path has gorgeous wildflowers and is mainly used for walking and hiking.
4. Fairy Stone State Park
Fairy Stone State Park is named after the Fairy Stone, a rock formation found along the creek running through it. This state park has many trails to explore for walkers, hikers, and horseback riders. The breathtaking views of the lake and the mountains are not to be missed.
5. Claytor Lake State Park
Claytor Lake State Park is famous for its water sports and fishing. The park is perfect for swimming and camping, and the park has a fully equipped marina. If you’d like to stay overnight, the park has 15 cabins and three lodges.
Claytor Lake Area Trail is a 2.2-mile loop trail that is open year-round. Located in Clayton Lake State Park, the Clayton trail is heavily traveled and appropriate for all ages.
6. Buffalo Mountain Natural Area Preserve
Buffalo Mountain Natural Area Preserve, located in Floyd County, is regarded as a jewel in the crown of Virginia’s natural resources. If you travel the one-mile steep trail up Buffalo Mountain, the 3971-foot peak is a remarkable view of wildflowers, rare grasses, and other natural landscapes. On a good day, you can see over 50 miles from the top!
If you love to hike, Floyd County has something for everyone. When you’re out and about, stop by Floyd CDJR and check out our latest vehicles. Our team is ready to provide the information you need and to schedule a test drive! Image by Pixabay
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