Shared by Hannah Grady, as guest blogger.
Fall is officially here. If the mountains are calling, head to Fairy Stone State Park, where you will find many opportunities for you and your loved ones to explore, relax and take in the views.
Top 5 things to do at Fairy Stone State Park this fall
- Stay in a cabin
- Attend a ranger-led program
- Get out on a trail and explore
- Hunt for Fairy Stones
- Have a picnic
1. Stay in a cabin
Fall is the perfect time to stay in a cabin. The weather is cooler, and the views are gorgeous, with all the leaves changing colors. Stay in a place where you can leave your worries behind.
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It is considered the off-season between November and March. That means rental rates are even more affordable. Pack your bags and get cozy by the fireplace at a cabin at Fairy Stone. Learn more about the cabins and make a reservation online or by calling 1-800-933-PARK.
2. Attend a ranger-led program
As the leaves start showing off their reds, golds and oranges, park rangers will be leading hands-on activities and guided hikes that bring the park’s history and wildlife to life. It is a chance to learn something new while experiencing the season.
Ranger-led programs are a relaxed way to explore the park. You can ask questions, hear stories and see things you might have missed on your own. Whether it is a walk through the woods or a family-friendly activity, these programs are a way to enjoy the crisp fall air and spend time outdoors. You can find an upcoming program at www.virginiastateparks.gov/events.
3. Get out on a trail and explore
This park has many hiking, biking and equestrian trails for you to find your adventure on this fall. While enjoying the outdoors, you can see the colors of the leaves around the lake and in the mountains.
Words cannot fully describe the views in this park. It is a view that you will not want to miss. To plan your hikes, you may want to check out the park's trail guide.
4. Look for Fairy Stones
One of the most well-known and popular things to do is hunt for Fairy Stones. These stones are formed and found within the park's boundary. The stone crosses, or "staurolite," are composed of iron, aluminum and silicate.
You can look for the stones by yourself or join a ranger for a guided Fairy Stone Hunt. The best place to find fairy stones is around tree roots, which seem to come to the surface in heavy rain.
5. Have a picnic
In addition to picnic tables at campsites, cabins and yurts, private picnic shelters are scattered around the park. These shelters can be reserved online or by calling 1-800-933-PARK. When they are not reserved, they are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Pack a picnic basket and cooler and take in the views at one of the park's picnicking locations.
