Admittedly, there are so many beautiful trails in Virginia that it’s hard to pick just one. But in the running as one of the prettiest, easiest hikes in the state, the Abbott Lake Trail at the Peaks Of Otter along the Blue Ridge Parkway is a peaceful yet spectacular destination! Learn more about what makes this one-of-a-kind trail one of the very best hikes in Virginia.
Abbott Lake is one of the many gorgeous mountain lakes hiding in Virginia’s Blue Ridge region.
Kay Davenport/Alltrails
This one is tucked away just off the Blue Ridge Parkway not far from Bedford, and it is a prominent feature of the Peaks Of Otter Lodge and Restaurant complex, both of which overlook the lake.
Christina Weber/Alltrails
In addition to these buildings, a level, easy .9 mile trail circles the lake, passing through well-manicured lawn, shaded woods, and tangled swampland.
Christina Weber/Alltrails Keep your eyes peeled as you hike for the Peaks of Otter Salamander, which is only found in this area! You may also see other wildlife, including deer, turtle, fish, or bear.
It’s a beautiful trail, made even more enjoyable by the diversity available in the land surrounding the lake and by the beautiful views of Flat Top Mountain, one of the three Peaks of Otter.
Jill Heller/Alltrails
There are also a few historic buildings tucked away off the Abbott Lake Trail just below the dam area that you’ll want to take the time to see.
Eben Schoeman/Alltrails
So plan to come this way soon for a peaceful, relaxing stroll around Abbott Lake, and enjoy the amenities offered at the Peaks of Otter lodge and restaurant.
okeedoke/Tripadvisor
There’s no wrong time to come: Abbott Lake is well worth a visit at any time of year. Each season brings its own type of magic to the landscape.
Katerina Dahmen/Alltrails
Do you agree that Abbott Lake Trail is one of the best hikes in Virginia? What are some other contenders? Be sure to share your thoughts with us in the comments below — we’d love to hear from you! To learn more about the Peaks of Otter area, visit their website.
Kay Davenport/Alltrails
Christina Weber/Alltrails
Keep your eyes peeled as you hike for the Peaks of Otter Salamander, which is only found in this area! You may also see other wildlife, including deer, turtle, fish, or bear.
Jill Heller/Alltrails
Eben Schoeman/Alltrails
okeedoke/Tripadvisor
Katerina Dahmen/Alltrails
The drive to Abbott Lake takes you along the enchanting Blue Ridge Parkway, which is a beautiful, worthy journey in and of itself and yet another reason to plan this trip!
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Address: 85554 Blue Ridge Pkwy, Bedford, VA 24523, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center
best hikes in Virginia March 10, 2022 Beth C. What hiking trails belong on my Virginia bucket list? Hiking is one of our favorite pastimes here in Virginia. Whether you’re looking for a short and sweet trail, such as Abbot Lake, or are up for a challenge, you’ll find there’s the perfect hike to suit your tastes. If you’re putting together a Virginia bucket list for the best hikes in Virginia, we’ve got a few ideas to get you started. At the top of the list is Old Rag Mountain Trail in Shenandoah National Park. It’s one of the most famous hikes in Virginia, both for the views and the fact that it’s notoriously challenging. You’ll need to complete 8 miles of strenuous terrain to enjoy the view from the top. Fortunately, however, almost every hiker agrees that the views are worth the effort! Next up on the list of iconic Virginia trails would be Crabtree Falls in Montebello. This stunning waterfall holds the title of the tallest series of cascades east of the Mississippi River, and it’s absolutely worth seeing in person. The best part of all? You can actually hike to the top via a beautiful yet challenging staircase trail. Some other trail recommendations would be White Oak Canyon Trail, also in Shenandoah National Park, Scott’s Run Nature Reserve in McLean, the Virginia Creeper Trail, Cape Henry Trail at First Landing State Park, Richmond’s James River Park Trails, Belfast Trail to the Devil’s Marbleyard, and the Birch Knob Observation Tower and Trail in Dickenson County. Learn more about these beautiful hikes when you read our previous article: 12 Trails In Virginia You Must Take If You Love The Outdoors.
The OIYS Visitor Center
best hikes in Virginia
March 10, 2022
Beth C.
What hiking trails belong on my Virginia bucket list? Hiking is one of our favorite pastimes here in Virginia. Whether you’re looking for a short and sweet trail, such as Abbot Lake, or are up for a challenge, you’ll find there’s the perfect hike to suit your tastes. If you’re putting together a Virginia bucket list for the best hikes in Virginia, we’ve got a few ideas to get you started. At the top of the list is Old Rag Mountain Trail in Shenandoah National Park. It’s one of the most famous hikes in Virginia, both for the views and the fact that it’s notoriously challenging. You’ll need to complete 8 miles of strenuous terrain to enjoy the view from the top. Fortunately, however, almost every hiker agrees that the views are worth the effort! Next up on the list of iconic Virginia trails would be Crabtree Falls in Montebello. This stunning waterfall holds the title of the tallest series of cascades east of the Mississippi River, and it’s absolutely worth seeing in person. The best part of all? You can actually hike to the top via a beautiful yet challenging staircase trail. Some other trail recommendations would be White Oak Canyon Trail, also in Shenandoah National Park, Scott’s Run Nature Reserve in McLean, the Virginia Creeper Trail, Cape Henry Trail at First Landing State Park, Richmond’s James River Park Trails, Belfast Trail to the Devil’s Marbleyard, and the Birch Knob Observation Tower and Trail in Dickenson County. Learn more about these beautiful hikes when you read our previous article: 12 Trails In Virginia You Must Take If You Love The Outdoors.
The OIYS Visitor Center
The OIYS Visitor Center
Hiking is one of our favorite pastimes here in Virginia. Whether you’re looking for a short and sweet trail, such as Abbot Lake, or are up for a challenge, you’ll find there’s the perfect hike to suit your tastes. If you’re putting together a Virginia bucket list for the best hikes in Virginia, we’ve got a few ideas to get you started. At the top of the list is Old Rag Mountain Trail in Shenandoah National Park. It’s one of the most famous hikes in Virginia, both for the views and the fact that it’s notoriously challenging. You’ll need to complete 8 miles of strenuous terrain to enjoy the view from the top. Fortunately, however, almost every hiker agrees that the views are worth the effort! Next up on the list of iconic Virginia trails would be Crabtree Falls in Montebello. This stunning waterfall holds the title of the tallest series of cascades east of the Mississippi River, and it’s absolutely worth seeing in person. The best part of all? You can actually hike to the top via a beautiful yet challenging staircase trail. Some other trail recommendations would be White Oak Canyon Trail, also in Shenandoah National Park, Scott’s Run Nature Reserve in McLean, the Virginia Creeper Trail, Cape Henry Trail at First Landing State Park, Richmond’s James River Park Trails, Belfast Trail to the Devil’s Marbleyard, and the Birch Knob Observation Tower and Trail in Dickenson County. Learn more about these beautiful hikes when you read our previous article: 12 Trails In Virginia You Must Take If You Love The Outdoors.
