Road Trip Ideas

Railroads have been an integral part of the success of The United States. As old railway tracks become obsolete, many have been turned into multi-use paths for recreation. These “rail trails” are typically used for walking, cycling, and horseback riding. Abandoned railways are perfect for recreation, as they are found on flat areas and run through historic areas. The Virginia Blue Ridge Railway Trail and the Claudius Crozet Blue Ridge Tunnel are two such rail trails, and both are found in gorgeous Nelson County, Virginia. Nelson County is conveniently located near Waynesboro, Charlottesville and Lynchburg. The short travel time makes walking a Nelson Rail Trail the perfect day trip.

7-mile crushed-stone rail trail along the Piney and Tye rivers with dual trailheads, equestrian access, and seasonal wildflowers.

29 connecting breweries, wineries, and distilleries between Arrington and Faber. Nelson 29 craft beverage route along U.S.

50-mile Nelson Scenic Loop combining Route 151, Route 664, the Blue Ridge Parkway, and Route 56 for mountain vistas, orchards, and craft beverages. The Nelson Scenic Loop strings together Routes 151, 664, the Blue Ridge Parkway, and 56 into a 50-mile auto or bike tour showcasing orchards, craft beverage stops, waterfalls, and mountaintop vistas from Piedmont foothills to ridge-top summits.

Crabtree Falls features five major cascades dropping 1,200 feet—the highest vertical-drop waterfall east of the Mississippi—with paved lower overlook and a 3-mile trail to upper vistas. Crabtree Falls cascades 1,200 vertical feet across five major drops, with an accessible first overlook near the parking area and a 3-mile trail to additional viewpoints for hikers seeking panoramic Blue Ridge vistas.

This northern part of Nelson County is home to 5 wineries, 3 breweries, 1 cidery, cozy Bed & Breakfasts, friendly farmers, spectacular views, and so much more.

The Brew Ridge Trail is a self-guided tour featuring six of the nation's best craft breweries. With everything from lagers to stouts, there's something for everyone along the trail.

Here in Virginia, we take great pride in putting our souls into every bottle of distilled spirits because we know that small batches take time, heart, and spirit. We believe in farm to bottle, continuously focusing on the small batches.