Hike Apple Orchard Falls
Strap up your boots for this scenic hike through the Jefferson National Forest. This 5.6 mile loop trail will take you along cold mountain streams and across rocky mountain paths to a beautiful waterfall. The hike has a difficulty rating of moderate. If you want to vamp it up a bit, continue a couple miles past the falls, to the Blue Ridge Parkway and change the rating to hard. There are lots of places to stop for a break to enjoy the water and eat. Camping is also permitted if you wanted to make this a multi-day excursion. More information
Virginia’s Triple Crown
Need more of a challenge? Hike along the Appalachian Trail for what is known as the Triple Crown; Tinker Cliffs, McAfee Knob and Dragon’s Tooth. Each section can be completed separately or in one multi-day hike. This can also be turned into a 40 mile loop hike for those seeking a real challenge. Each hike has its own amazing features. All three include magnificent vistas and great photo opportunities. Camping isn’t permitted at the summits, however there are four primitive camping shelters along the trails that are available; Campbell, Catawba Mountain, Johns Spring and Lamberts Meadow. Check out this site for more information, Triple Crown.
Appalachian Trail – The Appalachian Trail crosses Route 43 just 4 miles from Buchanan’s Main Street. The Appalachian Trail extends more than 2,180 miles from Main to Georgia.
The entrance to the Appalachian Trail along Route 43 is just below the ramp onto the Blue Ridge Parkway and offers limited parking. The Town is a rest stop and recharging point for hikers along the trail who use the U.S. Post Office, Buchanan Library, various shops and restaurants.