Exploring Virginia by Train, Boat, or Hot Air Balloon
Nestled amidst Virginia’s scenic landscapes, the Virginia Creeper Trail offers a remarkable way to explore the state by train and bike. This 34-mile rail-trail runs from the small town of Abingdon, about 20 miles southwest of Bristol, and stretches through rolling hills and dense forests. The trail follows the path of an old railway line, which once carried passengers and goods through the Appalachian foothills. Today, cyclists and hikers traverse the mostly gentle slopes, taking in stunning views of the Holston River and Whitetop Mountain, the second highest peak in Virginia. The trail is particularly enchanting in the fall when the foliage blazes with reds and golds, making the ride or walk a sensory delight. Along the way, visitors can stop in quaint towns like Damascus, dubbed “Trail Town USA,” where local shops and cafes welcome travelers seeking a taste of Appalachian charm.
On the Chesapeake Bay, just east of Norfolk, the Elizabeth River offers a unique chance to experience Virginia by boat. Visitors can embark from the historic Old Point Comfort area near Fort Monroe, a site itself rich with Civil War history and colonial-era architecture. The river winds through waterfront neighborhoods and past towering naval vessels at the Norfolk Naval Base, the world’s largest naval station. Kayaks and paddleboards glide alongside working tugboats and sailing yachts, offering intimate views of the region’s maritime culture. The Elizabeth River Trail, a nearby six-mile multi-use trail, complements the boating experience by tracing the river’s edge with interpretive signs about local ecology and naval history. Early mornings are ideal for a serene paddle, when the water is calm and the city skyline glows in the soft dawn light.
For a truly aerial perspective, hot air balloon rides over the Shenandoah Valley provide a breathtaking adventure just a 90-minute drive west of Washington, D.C. Launching near the town of Front Royal, the gateway to Shenandoah National Park, balloonists drift over lush farmland, winding rivers, and the Blue Ridge Mountains. From 1,200 feet or higher, the valley stretches out in a patchwork of vineyards, orchards, and historic estates. The park’s Skyline Drive forms a dramatic backdrop, with its 105-mile scenic route offering visitors ground-level views of the same ridges and meadows. Balloon flights are particularly stunning at sunrise, when the morning mist clings to the valley floor and bathes the landscape in soft pastel hues, creating an unforgettable panorama that captures Virginia’s natural beauty from a rare vantage point.
In Richmond, the state capital about 100 miles south of Washington, D.C., the city’s historic train station—Main Street Station—serves as a lively gateway to urban exploration. Built in the early 20th century, this Beaux-Arts architectural gem connects travelers by Amtrak to a rich tapestry of museums and neighborhoods. Just a short walk from the station, visitors can explore the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, renowned for its comprehensive collection that spans African art, Fabergé eggs, and contemporary works. The James River Park System nearby offers urban paddling opportunities and trails along rugged river bluffs, where the river’s rapids provide a striking contrast to the city skyline. Fall is an excellent time to visit, when the cooler temperatures invite long walks and the changing leaves frame the historic architecture and river vistas.
On Virginia’s Eastern Shore, the town of Cape Charles, located about two hours southeast of Richmond on the Chesapeake Bay, offers a charming harbor from which to embark on boat tours of the bay and nearby barrier islands. The calm waters here are ideal for sailing expeditions that explore the rich birdlife and maritime history of the region. Cape Charles Harbor itself is a vibrant marina surrounded by Victorian-era homes and a walkable downtown with artisan shops and eateries specializing in fresh local seafood. The nearby Kiptopeke State Park provides sandy beaches and fishing piers that complement the boating experience, especially in late spring and early summer when migratory birds flock to the area, delighting nature lovers and photographers alike.
Further southwest, the New River Trail State Park presents a unique combination of rail-trail exploration and river views just outside of Pulaski, about two hours southwest of Roanoke. This 57-mile trail follows the New River, one of the oldest rivers in North America, winding through tunnels and over trestle bridges that offer spectacular views of the rushing water and forested hills. The trail’s gentle grade and well-maintained path make it accessible for hikers, cyclists, and horseback riders. Along the way, visitors can spot bald eagles and other wildlife, especially near the Mabry Mill overlook, a picturesque spot that often serves as a rest point for trail users. Summer mornings reveal the river’s cool mist rising in the sunlight, creating an almost mystical atmosphere that enhances the connection between train history and natural beauty.
Lastly, the town of Williamsburg, about 45 minutes east of Richmond, combines historic charm with riverfront exploration. The James City County Marina offers boat rentals and guided tours on the James River, where visitors can see the iconic Jamestown Settlement from the water. Historic Jamestowne, the original English colony founded in 1607, is accessible by boat and features ongoing archaeological sites and a living-history museum that immerses visitors in early colonial life. Hot air balloon rides occasionally take off from nearby fields, providing sweeping views over the historic triangle that includes Jamestown, Williamsburg, and Yorktown. Springtime, with its blooming dogwoods and azaleas, is an ideal season to enjoy the river’s calm and the surrounding gardens in full bloom, making the past come vividly alive.