There are countless things to do in Waynesboro Virginia, the gateway to the Shenandoah Valley, including Shenandoah National Park, the Blue Ridge Parkway, the Appalachian Trail, and Interstate 64. The incredibly special Iris Inn resort is ideally located within minutes of upscale wineries, local eateries, and plenty of outdoor activities. With spring time arriving with a burst of color and energy, the outdoor activities near the Iris Inn are perfect for getting outside. Soon, spring wildflowers will be in bloom at the Humpback Gap parking area and along the trail to Glass Hollow Overlook.
The iconic Blue Ridge Parkway and Skyline Drive are gateways to some of the most scenic hikes such as Humpback Rock and Crabtree Falls which are both within 30 minutes of the Iris Inn.
Situated near the southern tip of Shenandoah National Park’s Skyline Drive, the north entrance to the Blue Ridge Parkway, the Appalachian Trail, and Interstate 64, makes the Iris Inn in Waynesboro, VA a destination for travelers.
When it comes to things to do in Waynesboro Virginia, the options are unlimited.The Iris Inn team has listed some of the guests most requested points of interest.
There are five parks and a riverwalk within city limits. The South River that flows through town is perfect for fishing, boating, and paddling.
History and architecture enthusiasts will enjoy touring Swannanoa, an Italian Renaissance Revival villa built by Virginia businessman and civic leader James H. Dooley in 1913.
The easiest way to tour Shenandoah National Park is to take Skyline Drive from its southern terminus near Waynesboro to its northern terminus near Front Royal, Virginia. You could also drive the 105-mile route from north to south.
There are more than 70 overlooks along Skyline Drive, and Shenandoah National Park has facilities for camping and picnicking, along with lots of hiking trails.
For visitors who would like to drive the full length of Skyline Drive in one day, it is recommended taking Interstate 81 north from nearby Staunton to the northern terminus at Front Royal, and then enjoying a leisurely drive back to Waynesboro. The route in reverse is also an option.
The Blue Ridge Parkway, dubbed “America’s favorite drive,” meanders for 469 miles from Rockfish Gap near Waynesboro, to its southern terminus near Cherokee, North Carolina.
Loaded with scenic overlooks, camping and picnicking facilities, hiking trails, waterfalls, historical sites, and ranger-led programs, the Blue Ridge Parkway offers more activities and attractions than you can count.
The best way to plan day trips from Waynesboro is to grab a copy of the Blue Ridge Parkway Directory and Travel Planner. Milepost descriptions for both Skyline Drive and the Parkway will help you identify key locations that suit your interests. You can download and print a PDF of the planner, download the mobile app, and/or request a print copy be mailed to you.
Skyline Drive and the Blue Ridge Parkway are both designated National Scenic Byways.
The Appalachian National Scenic Trail is the longest marked footpath in the United States, stretching 2,178 miles from Springer Mountain, Georgia to Mount Katahdin, Maine.
As a “trail town,” Waynesboro is a resupply point where thru-hikers can recharge before resuming their hike.
Waynesboro’s proximity to the trail makes it easy for guests in town to hike a portion of the AT. such as the segment from Rockfish Gap to the Paul C. Wolfe Shelter. This hike features an abandoned homestead and cemetery, and a swimming hole with a waterfall at the end. Day hikers can hike out and back or arrange for someone to pick them up at the shelter.
In 2012, Waynesboro was designated an Appalachian Trail Community. Situated within two miles of the trail, Waynesboro welcomes and assists thru-hikers with free showers, camping areas, and other basic needs. A group of volunteers called “The Trail Angels” offer hikers free rides to town from the AT at Rockfish Gap.
