We stumbled on Grandfather Mountain on our way to go gem mining. There is a little zoo area about half way up the mountian. Lots of hiking trails as well as places to pull over and take wonderful photos with the mountains in the background. At the very top of the mountian is a swinging bridge over a gap. Alittle scary as it moves when you move but completely safe. On top of the mountain you can see for miles. A must see if you are in the Boone area of North Carolina.

False Cape State Park is a secluded park tucked at the end of Sandbridge. The only way to get to the park is hike, bike, or boat. I recommend not walking at it is a 3.5 mile hike down tot he park entrance and then you have to hike around the park, and then make that 3.5 mile hike back to your car. It is very beautiful. The trail is a crushed stone road that leads you thru a marsh area. There are birds, turtles, and tons of other wildlife to see. Once you get to the park you can see an early settlement and there is camping as well.

The James River is about 5 feet high in places and surround by big boulders and the water is clear, just bring your boat shoes. The bottom is rocky but they are smooth rocks. There is places to launch a canoe or a tube. Nature trails weave in and around the edge of the river for miles.

Tucked away in Gloucester is a mansion built in 1725 on the banks of the York River. This 3 sotry all brick home is just a shell today and their is still excavation going on. Take a tour around the home and learn the history of the family who built it. The amazing thing is years of civil war and natural weather, such as hurricanes have not destroyed this home. The craftmanship is amazing. This site also operates on donation only I believe.

Most people who come to Virginia Beach spend most of their time on the beach and playing in the ocean. Just a few miles away is the Virginia Aquarium. Hosting a variety of sealife including sharks, seals, turtles, sting rays, and fish. There is education on the area and wildlife that live the the area, marsh, and ocean. Small critters including snakes are also on display. There is a nature trail that leads to another building that host otters, birds, and other small critters. A new exhibit, Restless Planet, host crocidiles, snakes, and komodo dragons. A great relaxing day away from the beach learning about nature. A must see if you visit VA Beach.