hikingbuddys

If you're a fan of hiking and breathtaking views, Crabtree Falls in Virginia is a destination you won’t want to miss. My love for this trail began when I decided to celebrate my birthday by hiking it with my dad and cousin. Just 2.5 hours from home, the experience was much more than just a fun hike—it was an adventure filled with stunning scenery, a challenging trail, and some quality time with loved ones. Even more impressive, my dad had just undergone gallbladder surgery a month before, and he still managed to complete the trail! So, if he can do it, chances are you can too. Crabtree Falls offers one of the most beautiful waterfall hikes in Virginia, and at 3.6 miles in length, it’s the perfect mix of challenge and reward. Let’s dive into everything you need to know before you lace up your boots and head out. What to Pack for the Hike One thing that made our hike successful was being well-prepared. You don’t need to bring much, but there are a few essentials you won’t want to for...

Recently, I decided to take a short hike at Cold Harbor Battlefield, a place rich with history and scenic trails. Although I didn’t do the full hike this time around, I still managed to get some good walking in and soak up the atmosphere of the battlefield. I have done the complete loop around Cold Harbor in the past, so I had a good idea of what to expect. Each visit to this historic site reveals a bit more about its somber significance. The History of Cold Harbor Battlefield Cold Harbor Battlefield is much more than just a trail; it’s a significant piece of Civil War history. The Battle of Cold Harbor was a devastating encounter, resulting in a Union defeat under Ulysses S. Grant’s command as he attempted to advance toward Richmond, Virginia. Confederate forces, led by General Robert E. Lee, were deeply entrenched here, and the battle resulted in approximately 32,000 casualties on both sides. It was one of the bloodiest and most fatal battles of the war, leaving an indelible mark on ...

 For another birthday of mine, my dad and I decided to head out on a hike to Dark Hollow Falls, located in the Shenandoah Valley, Virginia. It was a perfect day for a hike, and although the trail is pretty short—only about 1.6 miles—it’s packed with beautiful scenery and ends with a stunning waterfall. The whole hike took us about an hour and five minutes to complete, which makes it a great option if you're looking for a shorter outdoor adventure. What to Bring on the Hike One thing to note is that the trail can get pretty busy, and when we went, it was definitely full of hikers. Despite the crowd, it was a peaceful and enjoyable experience. If you’re planning to hike Dark Hollow Falls, here’s what I recommend you bring: Hiking Shoes: While not completely necessary, I would still suggest wearing hiking shoes. They’ll give you better grip and make the trail easier to manage, especially on the downhill parts. Water: Be sure to bring plenty of water, especially if you’re hiking during...

For my birthday, my dad and I decided to do something a little different and take on a hike through the Blue Ridge Tunnel. This trail is about 4.6 miles long, and one of the coolest parts of the hike is that you actually walk through a mile-long tunnel! If you're looking for an outdoor adventure that combines history and a great workout, this hike might be perfect for you. It was a great way to celebrate the day, and the views (as well as the tunnel experience) did not disappoint. What Should You Wear? Since this was my first time on the trail, I packed my trusty hiking shoes, thinking they’d be necessary. But to my surprise, you could totally walk this trail in regular walking shoes. Most of the trail is paved, which makes it accessible for all types of footwear. I went in the summer, so casual shorts and a comfortable T-shirt were my go-to outfit. The most important thing you’ll want to bring, however, is a headlamp. The tunnel is pitch black inside, and having a good light sourc...

Recently, my sister's boyfriend and I decided to tackle the Humpback Rocks trail. It’s a relatively short hike at just 1.8 miles, but don't let that fool you—this trail proved to be more challenging than we expected! While my sister’s boyfriend joked about his calves being on fire, I have to admit, my legs felt the burn too. There are plenty of steep inclines and a good amount of rock scrambling, but once we made it to the top, the breathtaking view made every bit of effort worthwhile. What to Bring on This Hike Before you head out on the Humpback Rocks trail, be sure to pack the essentials. Here’s what I recommend based on our experience: Water: Definitely bring cold water with you! There are several points along the trail where you'll want to stop and take a drink, especially during warmer weather. I recommend packing water in an insulated bottle to keep it cool throughout the hike. Bear Mace: It's always better to be safe than sorry when hiking in nature, so consider...