When I first started hiking regularly, I wasn’t chasing miles or elevation, I just needed to get outside, breathe some fresh mountain air, and find a bit of peace. Central Virginia, with its winding ridgelines and endless sky, offered that and so much more.

If you’re new to hiking (or just want to ease into it), these five beginner-friendly hikes are a great way to start exploring the Blue Ridge Parkway and Skyline Drive. They’re short, scenic, and don’t require fancy gear—just a good pair of shoes, a bottle of water, and a willingness to slow down and take it all in.

1. Humpback Rocks (Blue Ridge Parkway, Milepost 5.8)

Distance: ~2 miles (loop)
Trail Type: Steady uphill, then loop back
Why I love it: It’s short, but don’t be fooled, it’ll get your heart rate up! The climb is worth every step, especially when you hit the summit and see the sweeping views of the Shenandoah Valley and beyond. This was one of the first hikes I ever did solo, and I still come back to it often when I want a quick win and a reminder of how strong I am.

2. White Rock Falls Trail (Blue Ridge Parkway, Milepost 18.5)

Distance: ~2.9 miles (out and back)
Trail Type: Gentle inclines, forest and creekside
Why I love it: This one feels like a quiet secret. You follow a stream most of the way, which always grounds me, and then end up at a sweet little waterfall tucked into the woods. It’s perfect for a leisurely afternoon or a beginner hiker who wants to soak in some nature without pushing too hard.

3. Apple Orchard Falls Trail (Blue Ridge Parkway, Milepost 78.4)

Distance: ~1.2 miles (one way)
Trail Type: Short but steep
Why I love it: This trail gives you a little bit of a workout but rewards you with a dramatic, crashing waterfall at the end. It’s one of those hikes that reminds you why we keep walking uphill, because what waits at the top is often magic.

4. Stony Man Loop (Skyline Drive, Milepost 31.5)

Distance: ~1.5 miles (loop)
Trail Type: Easy forest loop
Why I love it: This one’s in Shenandoah National Park and is gentle enough for beginners but still gives you those expansive mountain views you came for. There’s something deeply peaceful about walking this path through the woods, it’s one of my favorite “clear your head” hikes.

5. Land’s Run Falls Trail (Skyline Drive, Milepost 51.7)

Distance: ~0.7 miles (out and back)
Trail Type: Short and mostly flat
Why I love it: If you’re short on time but still want a nature fix, this trail is perfect. It’s quiet, low-effort, and leads to a lovely waterfall. You’ll leave feeling refreshed and ready to come back for more.

A Few Tips Before You Head Out:

Start local. When I first started hiking regularly, I stuck close to home and chose trails that made me feel safe and confident. These five were part of that beginning—and I return to them often when I need a “reset.”

Check the trail conditions. Especially in the colder months, Skyline Drive and parts of the Parkway may be closed. I signed up for the Skyline Drive text alerts so I always know what’s open (and what mile markers are affected). You can find updates through the National Park Service website, too.

Dress for the weather. Layers are your best friend in the spring—mornings can start chilly and warm up fast. And wear shoes with good grip, even for short hikes. You’ll thank yourself.

Download your map before you go. I use AllTrails to track my hikes, download offline maps, and read up on what other hikers have recently experienced on the trail. It’s like having a trail buddy in your pocket.

Follow trail etiquette. Stay on the path (please!), pack out what you pack in, yield to uphill hikers, and leash your pup. Keeping these trails safe and beautiful takes all of us.