7 Natural Wonders a Road Trip Away from DC
The older I grow, the more I enjoy the great outdoors -- especially when it comes to experiences specific to the region in which I live. Maryland, DC, and Virginia offer an array of natural wonders perfect for every level of adventurer. Whether you enjoy scenic, simple walks -- or rafting through bubbling, whitewater rapids -- the sites on this list are sure to add some excitement to your summer!
Assateague Island, MD
Assateague is a natural barrier island a few miles south of Ocean City, MD. Tourists often gather on its famous beaches for the chance to catch a glimpse of wild ponies. On your next trip, consider visiting the Assateague Lighthouse or renting a bike and pedaling around Assateague Park! Admission is $20 per vehicle.
Calvert Cliffs State Park, MD
Located in Lusby, Maryland, the Calvert Cliffs State Park is well known for its diverse ecosystem (including beaches, marshes, and woodlands), beautiful sandstone cliffs, and commonly recovered fossils along the surf. This is a great location for more advanced hikers (as the paths are not paved). The park welcomes hunters and fishers and even offers a picnic area. Hours of operation are sunrise to sunset daily, year round. The cost of admission is $5/vehicle, and there is a $2 additional for out-of-state residents.
Harpers Ferry, WV
Harpers Ferry is one of my favorite day trip locations. Not only does the town have a fantastic history (look up John Brown's raid and Storer College) it is an adventure seeker's dream! The Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers meet at "The Point" at Harpers Ferry in West Virginia (pictured above) where you can actually enjoy the gorgeous Maryland and Virginia skyline. Travelers flock to the area throughout the year for rafting, tubing, hiking, and camping. The historic old town area is also filled with shops and museums. Admission is $10 per vehicle. I try to go at least once a year for a peaceful walk and picnic.
Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens (District of Columbia)
Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens is a lush paradise situated in the northeast corner of Washington, DC in Anacostia Park. In all my years of living in this area, I had no idea such a lovely natural display occurs here annually. Mid to late July each year, the lotus and water lilies are in full-bloom and area residents visit the park to mill about the beautiful flowers. There are literally thousands of lotus blossoms as far as the eye can see. It is an experience everyone should have at least once! Visit this week while the flora is in peak bloom! There are no admission or parking fees.
Kilgore Falls, MD
Waterfalls in Maryland? Yes, there are absolutely waterfalls in the state of Maryland (and even DC)! One of the most easily hiked is Kilgore Falls located in Rocks State Park in Pylesville. While it is not the largest waterfall in Maryland, it is a very popular place to take a cool dip during the summer. Try to beat the crowds and visit during the week if possible. Learn more about fees and permits by visiting the Rocks State Park website.
Shenandoah Caverns, VA
While there are several caverns located throughout Maryland and Virginia, Shenandoah Caverns is probably my favorite to explore. It is considerably smaller than other caverns (shorter walk), but the charming surrounding attractions in Quicksburg are fun and add to the experience. I also appreciate the cool, fresh cavern air! There is also an elevator, which makes the cavern more accessible to those with mobility concerns. Check out Groupon for discounts or visit the Shenandoah Caverns website for ticket information.
Natural Bridge, VA
This 215-foot tall natural arch is located in the Virginia town which shares its namesake - Natural Bridge. Admission is $6 per person and includes living history exhibits, 6 miles of hiking trails, a 30 ft cascading waterfall, and the Monocan American Indian Village. You're sure to love the scenic drive down to Natural Bridge, as well as the rich forests and valleys of the park.
Happy traveling!
-Jasmine (The Invincible)
Assateague Island, MD
 |
| Image from Visit Worcester |
Assateague is a natural barrier island a few miles south of Ocean City, MD. Tourists often gather on its famous beaches for the chance to catch a glimpse of wild ponies. On your next trip, consider visiting the Assateague Lighthouse or renting a bike and pedaling around Assateague Park! Admission is $20 per vehicle.
Calvert Cliffs State Park, MD
 |
| Image from Pinterest |
Located in Lusby, Maryland, the Calvert Cliffs State Park is well known for its diverse ecosystem (including beaches, marshes, and woodlands), beautiful sandstone cliffs, and commonly recovered fossils along the surf. This is a great location for more advanced hikers (as the paths are not paved). The park welcomes hunters and fishers and even offers a picnic area. Hours of operation are sunrise to sunset daily, year round. The cost of admission is $5/vehicle, and there is a $2 additional for out-of-state residents.
Harpers Ferry, WV
 |
| Image from NPS |
Harpers Ferry is one of my favorite day trip locations. Not only does the town have a fantastic history (look up John Brown's raid and Storer College) it is an adventure seeker's dream! The Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers meet at "The Point" at Harpers Ferry in West Virginia (pictured above) where you can actually enjoy the gorgeous Maryland and Virginia skyline. Travelers flock to the area throughout the year for rafting, tubing, hiking, and camping. The historic old town area is also filled with shops and museums. Admission is $10 per vehicle. I try to go at least once a year for a peaceful walk and picnic.
Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens (District of Columbia)
 |
| Image from THEARC |
Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens is a lush paradise situated in the northeast corner of Washington, DC in Anacostia Park. In all my years of living in this area, I had no idea such a lovely natural display occurs here annually. Mid to late July each year, the lotus and water lilies are in full-bloom and area residents visit the park to mill about the beautiful flowers. There are literally thousands of lotus blossoms as far as the eye can see. It is an experience everyone should have at least once! Visit this week while the flora is in peak bloom! There are no admission or parking fees.
Kilgore Falls, MD
 |
| Image from The Outbound |
Waterfalls in Maryland? Yes, there are absolutely waterfalls in the state of Maryland (and even DC)! One of the most easily hiked is Kilgore Falls located in Rocks State Park in Pylesville. While it is not the largest waterfall in Maryland, it is a very popular place to take a cool dip during the summer. Try to beat the crowds and visit during the week if possible. Learn more about fees and permits by visiting the Rocks State Park website.
Shenandoah Caverns, VA
 |
| Yes, I took this photo! |
While there are several caverns located throughout Maryland and Virginia, Shenandoah Caverns is probably my favorite to explore. It is considerably smaller than other caverns (shorter walk), but the charming surrounding attractions in Quicksburg are fun and add to the experience. I also appreciate the cool, fresh cavern air! There is also an elevator, which makes the cavern more accessible to those with mobility concerns. Check out Groupon for discounts or visit the Shenandoah Caverns website for ticket information.
Natural Bridge, VA
 |
| Image from Expedia |
This 215-foot tall natural arch is located in the Virginia town which shares its namesake - Natural Bridge. Admission is $6 per person and includes living history exhibits, 6 miles of hiking trails, a 30 ft cascading waterfall, and the Monocan American Indian Village. You're sure to love the scenic drive down to Natural Bridge, as well as the rich forests and valleys of the park.
Happy traveling!
-Jasmine (The Invincible)
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