It’s a well-known fact that one of the best ways to explore Virginia is on foot. Seeing the diverse landscape is an experience like no other, especially when you get to enjoy scenic trails along the way. Even some of Virginia’s most historic sites are accessible by trails. As you take the following hikes through the state, you’ll pass by or be led to some extraordinary ruins that hold an important piece of Virginia’s history. Dating back decades and sometimes even centuries, these trails to ancient ruins in Virginia are simply fascinating. Although our definition of ancient implies hundreds of years, it’s important to note that Virginia’s native history began thousands of years ago. Unfortunately, little remains of these original settlements.
AllTrails.com
Our list of trails to ancient ruins in Virginia begins with the Pyrite Mine Loop Trail. Located In Prince William Forest Park, the Pyrite Mine Trail is a 7.6-mile loop that takes hikers by the ruins of an old pyrite mine. Complete with interpretive signs, this area is perfect for exploring the mining history of this portion of Virginia. There are also scenic overlooks and a few waterfalls along the way. For more information about this hike, click here.
Bill Dickinson/flickr
Virginia State Parks/flickr
Eli Christman/flickr
Midlothian Mines Park is a trail park near Richmond that features the ruins of Grove Shaft, a coal mine that faced a deadly explosion in 1882. The two-story stone structure on site is all that remains of the mining company’s main building.
Chloe Muro/flickr
In the early 20th century, this hydro-electro plant was built to fuel local operations in Richmond. Though less traditional than other ruins, this skeleton of a former industrial building holds an important place in the history of the James River. This site is accessible by a number of trails along the James River Park System, which then cross over the river by means of the suspension bridge. For more information about this area, 6. Bull Run Mountain Loop
Rob Shenk/flickr The Bull Run Mountain Loop is 4.3 miles and is located in Broad Run. The trail is perhaps best known for featuring the historic Chapman’s Mill, also known as Beverley Mill. The grist mill was built in 1742 and many of its gears and mechanisms can still be observed as you pass by. For more information on this hike, These 12 Trails In Virginia That Will Lead You To Unforgettable Places. OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. Address: Pyrite Mine Rd, Dumfries, VA 22025, USAAddress: Fox Hill - Grandview, Hampton, VA, USAAddress: False Cape State Park, 4001 Sandpiper Rd, Virginia Beach, VA 23456, USAAddress: 13301 N Woolridge Rd, Midlothian, VA 23114, USAAddress: Belle Isle, Richmond, VA, USAAddress: Beverley Mill AKA Chapman’s Mill (Ruins), 17504 Beverley Mill Dr, Broad Run, VA 20137, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center
trails to ancient ruins in Virginia October 06, 2020 Beth C. What is the oldest attraction in Virginia? Virginia is one of the most historical states in the country. Evidence of early European settlement can be seen across the state, and many of these sites are still visited today. One significant attraction that’s considered to be the oldest house in Virginia is Bacon’s Castle, also known as Arthur Allen’s Brick House. Built in the 1660s, it’s the oldest and the only surviving example of Jacobean architecture left in the U.S. Visiting Bacon’s Castle today will surely take you back in time and give you a glimpse of what life was like in Virginia in the seventeenth century. What’s the most beautiful hike in Virginia? The hiking trails above are certainly beautiful, but they don’t necessarily offer the sweeping views that other trails do. If you’re looking for the most beautiful hike in Virginia, you might consider McAfee Knob. To start, it’s the most photographed overlook along the famous Appalachian Trail. This famous outcropping yields positively exquisite views of the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains, and it’s worth visiting any time of the year. Visitors should note that this strenuous trail isn’t for everyone, though. If you’re curious to hike McAfee Knob, you might start by reading our article that highlights this beautiful Virginia trail. Which hikes in Virginia are short and sweet? Hiking in Virginia is an incredible experience, but we certainly understand if you’re not looking to spend an entire day out in the woods. Fortunately, there are plenty of less strenuous and lengthy trails to choose from. For short and sweet hikes in Virginia, you might consider any of the following: Scott’s Run Nature Preserve, Theodore Roosevelt Island, Dark Hollow Falls in Shenandoah National Park, Molly’s Knob, Compton Peak Summit, Crabtree Falls, Stony Man Mountain Trail, Spy Rock, Humpback Rocks Trail, Bluebell Trail, Union Mills Trail, and Bald Cypress Trail. Take a closer look at these aforementioned trails by reading all about the best short and sweet hikes in Virginia.
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A lifelong Virginia resident, Beth loves exploring different parts of the world and currently resides in Alexandria. She holds a degree in English Literature and one of her short stories has been featured in the Shenandoah Review. Other interests include hiking, songwriting, and spending time in the mountains.
Rob Shenk/flickr
The Bull Run Mountain Loop is 4.3 miles and is located in Broad Run. The trail is perhaps best known for featuring the historic Chapman’s Mill, also known as Beverley Mill. The grist mill was built in 1742 and many of its gears and mechanisms can still be observed as you pass by. For more information on this hike, These 12 Trails In Virginia That Will Lead You To Unforgettable Places. OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. Address: Pyrite Mine Rd, Dumfries, VA 22025, USAAddress: Fox Hill - Grandview, Hampton, VA, USAAddress: False Cape State Park, 4001 Sandpiper Rd, Virginia Beach, VA 23456, USAAddress: 13301 N Woolridge Rd, Midlothian, VA 23114, USAAddress: Belle Isle, Richmond, VA, USAAddress: Beverley Mill AKA Chapman’s Mill (Ruins), 17504 Beverley Mill Dr, Broad Run, VA 20137, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center
trails to ancient ruins in Virginia October 06, 2020 Beth C. What is the oldest attraction in Virginia? Virginia is one of the most historical states in the country. Evidence of early European settlement can be seen across the state, and many of these sites are still visited today. One significant attraction that’s considered to be the oldest house in Virginia is Bacon’s Castle, also known as Arthur Allen’s Brick House. Built in the 1660s, it’s the oldest and the only surviving example of Jacobean architecture left in the U.S. Visiting Bacon’s Castle today will surely take you back in time and give you a glimpse of what life was like in Virginia in the seventeenth century. What’s the most beautiful hike in Virginia? The hiking trails above are certainly beautiful, but they don’t necessarily offer the sweeping views that other trails do. If you’re looking for the most beautiful hike in Virginia, you might consider McAfee Knob. To start, it’s the most photographed overlook along the famous Appalachian Trail. This famous outcropping yields positively exquisite views of the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains, and it’s worth visiting any time of the year. Visitors should note that this strenuous trail isn’t for everyone, though. If you’re curious to hike McAfee Knob, you might start by reading our article that highlights this beautiful Virginia trail. Which hikes in Virginia are short and sweet? Hiking in Virginia is an incredible experience, but we certainly understand if you’re not looking to spend an entire day out in the woods. Fortunately, there are plenty of less strenuous and lengthy trails to choose from. For short and sweet hikes in Virginia, you might consider any of the following: Scott’s Run Nature Preserve, Theodore Roosevelt Island, Dark Hollow Falls in Shenandoah National Park, Molly’s Knob, Compton Peak Summit, Crabtree Falls, Stony Man Mountain Trail, Spy Rock, Humpback Rocks Trail, Bluebell Trail, Union Mills Trail, and Bald Cypress Trail. Take a closer look at these aforementioned trails by reading all about the best short and sweet hikes in Virginia.
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A lifelong Virginia resident, Beth loves exploring different parts of the world and currently resides in Alexandria. She holds a degree in English Literature and one of her short stories has been featured in the Shenandoah Review. Other interests include hiking, songwriting, and spending time in the mountains.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
Address: Pyrite Mine Rd, Dumfries, VA 22025, USAAddress: Fox Hill - Grandview, Hampton, VA, USAAddress: False Cape State Park, 4001 Sandpiper Rd, Virginia Beach, VA 23456, USAAddress: 13301 N Woolridge Rd, Midlothian, VA 23114, USAAddress: Belle Isle, Richmond, VA, USAAddress: Beverley Mill AKA Chapman’s Mill (Ruins), 17504 Beverley Mill Dr, Broad Run, VA 20137, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center
trails to ancient ruins in Virginia October 06, 2020 Beth C. What is the oldest attraction in Virginia? Virginia is one of the most historical states in the country. Evidence of early European settlement can be seen across the state, and many of these sites are still visited today. One significant attraction that’s considered to be the oldest house in Virginia is Bacon’s Castle, also known as Arthur Allen’s Brick House. Built in the 1660s, it’s the oldest and the only surviving example of Jacobean architecture left in the U.S. Visiting Bacon’s Castle today will surely take you back in time and give you a glimpse of what life was like in Virginia in the seventeenth century. What’s the most beautiful hike in Virginia? The hiking trails above are certainly beautiful, but they don’t necessarily offer the sweeping views that other trails do. If you’re looking for the most beautiful hike in Virginia, you might consider McAfee Knob. To start, it’s the most photographed overlook along the famous Appalachian Trail. This famous outcropping yields positively exquisite views of the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains, and it’s worth visiting any time of the year. Visitors should note that this strenuous trail isn’t for everyone, though. If you’re curious to hike McAfee Knob, you might start by reading our article that highlights this beautiful Virginia trail. Which hikes in Virginia are short and sweet? Hiking in Virginia is an incredible experience, but we certainly understand if you’re not looking to spend an entire day out in the woods. Fortunately, there are plenty of less strenuous and lengthy trails to choose from. For short and sweet hikes in Virginia, you might consider any of the following: Scott’s Run Nature Preserve, Theodore Roosevelt Island, Dark Hollow Falls in Shenandoah National Park, Molly’s Knob, Compton Peak Summit, Crabtree Falls, Stony Man Mountain Trail, Spy Rock, Humpback Rocks Trail, Bluebell Trail, Union Mills Trail, and Bald Cypress Trail. Take a closer look at these aforementioned trails by reading all about the best short and sweet hikes in Virginia.
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Beth
A lifelong Virginia resident, Beth loves exploring different parts of the world and currently resides in Alexandria. She holds a degree in English Literature and one of her short stories has been featured in the Shenandoah Review. Other interests include hiking, songwriting, and spending time in the mountains.
The OIYS Visitor Center
trails to ancient ruins in Virginia
October 06, 2020
Beth C.
What is the oldest attraction in Virginia? Virginia is one of the most historical states in the country. Evidence of early European settlement can be seen across the state, and many of these sites are still visited today. One significant attraction that’s considered to be the oldest house in Virginia is Bacon’s Castle, also known as Arthur Allen’s Brick House. Built in the 1660s, it’s the oldest and the only surviving example of Jacobean architecture left in the U.S. Visiting Bacon’s Castle today will surely take you back in time and give you a glimpse of what life was like in Virginia in the seventeenth century. What’s the most beautiful hike in Virginia? The hiking trails above are certainly beautiful, but they don’t necessarily offer the sweeping views that other trails do. If you’re looking for the most beautiful hike in Virginia, you might consider McAfee Knob. To start, it’s the most photographed overlook along the famous Appalachian Trail. This famous outcropping yields positively exquisite views of the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains, and it’s worth visiting any time of the year. Visitors should note that this strenuous trail isn’t for everyone, though. If you’re curious to hike McAfee Knob, you might start by reading our article that highlights this beautiful Virginia trail. Which hikes in Virginia are short and sweet? Hiking in Virginia is an incredible experience, but we certainly understand if you’re not looking to spend an entire day out in the woods. Fortunately, there are plenty of less strenuous and lengthy trails to choose from. For short and sweet hikes in Virginia, you might consider any of the following: Scott’s Run Nature Preserve, Theodore Roosevelt Island, Dark Hollow Falls in Shenandoah National Park, Molly’s Knob, Compton Peak Summit, Crabtree Falls, Stony Man Mountain Trail, Spy Rock, Humpback Rocks Trail, Bluebell Trail, Union Mills Trail, and Bald Cypress Trail. Take a closer look at these aforementioned trails by reading all about the best short and sweet hikes in Virginia.
The OIYS Visitor Center
The OIYS Visitor Center
Virginia is one of the most historical states in the country. Evidence of early European settlement can be seen across the state, and many of these sites are still visited today. One significant attraction that’s considered to be the oldest house in Virginia is Bacon’s Castle, also known as Arthur Allen’s Brick House. Built in the 1660s, it’s the oldest and the only surviving example of Jacobean architecture left in the U.S. Visiting Bacon’s Castle today will surely take you back in time and give you a glimpse of what life was like in Virginia in the seventeenth century.
What’s the most beautiful hike in Virginia?
The hiking trails above are certainly beautiful, but they don’t necessarily offer the sweeping views that other trails do. If you’re looking for the most beautiful hike in Virginia, you might consider McAfee Knob. To start, it’s the most photographed overlook along the famous Appalachian Trail. This famous outcropping yields positively exquisite views of the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains, and it’s worth visiting any time of the year. Visitors should note that this strenuous trail isn’t for everyone, though. If you’re curious to hike McAfee Knob, you might start by reading our article that highlights this beautiful Virginia trail.
Which hikes in Virginia are short and sweet?
Hiking in Virginia is an incredible experience, but we certainly understand if you’re not looking to spend an entire day out in the woods. Fortunately, there are plenty of less strenuous and lengthy trails to choose from. For short and sweet hikes in Virginia, you might consider any of the following: Scott’s Run Nature Preserve, Theodore Roosevelt Island, Dark Hollow Falls in Shenandoah National Park, Molly’s Knob, Compton Peak Summit, Crabtree Falls, Stony Man Mountain Trail, Spy Rock, Humpback Rocks Trail, Bluebell Trail, Union Mills Trail, and Bald Cypress Trail. Take a closer look at these aforementioned trails by reading all about the best short and sweet hikes in Virginia.
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Beth
A lifelong Virginia resident, Beth loves exploring different parts of the world and currently resides in Alexandria. She holds a degree in English Literature and one of her short stories has been featured in the Shenandoah Review. Other interests include hiking, songwriting, and spending time in the mountains.
Beth
A lifelong Virginia resident, Beth loves exploring different parts of the world and currently resides in Alexandria. She holds a degree in English Literature and one of her short stories has been featured in the Shenandoah Review. Other interests include hiking, songwriting, and spending time in the mountains.
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