Experience a scenic 7-mile hike along the Rose River Trail from Old Blue Ridge Turnpike to Skyline Drive. Enjoy packed lunches and stunning views in Virginia's wilderness.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
challenging
Duration
4–6 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have good endurance and be comfortable with uphill climbs and uneven terrain.
Wildlife
History
The Old Blue Ridge Turnpike was historically a key trade route linking rural communities across Virginia’s mountainous regions.
Conservation
Efforts are in place to maintain trail sustainability by limiting erosion and protecting native plant habitats through responsible hiking practices.
Graves Mountain Farm and Lodges
Experience a scenic 7-mile hike along the Rose River Trail from Old Blue Ridge Turnpike to Skyline Drive. Enjoy packed lunches and stunning views in Virginia's wilderness.
Graves Mountain Farm and Lodges is a rural retreat located in Syria, Virginia. The property includes lodges and an 1800‑acre farm that hosts outdoor recreation, hands‑on workshops, and seasonal events led by local instructors.
Programming spans guided Blue Trail hikes, fly fishing lessons, partner dancing, yoga, painting and multiple craft workshops. Tim Lewis leads guided hikes across orchards, rivers and forested mountain trails, and provides fly‑fishing guidance on scenic ponds and rivers. Judy and Bobby Chiles teach partner dancing with Hoe‑down and country partner dancing sessions suitable for families and beginners. Jenn Mintz offers one‑hour yoga and meditation sessions appropriate for all ages and experience levels.
Creative workshops include wreath making with Sandra Kechter (three‑hour sessions crafting deco mesh, burlap or grapevine wreaths), soap making with Laura Goley of Swallowtail Ridge (including herbal tea and instruction in medicinal plant uses), and soapmaking with Jennifer Harris of Cornerstone Lavender (small‑batch, take‑home soap). Lou Messa leads a 5.5‑hour acrylic landscape workshop with personalized mentorship in a small group setting.
Many experiences provide supplies and equipment, and several explicitly welcome beginners—dance sessions note "no experience necessary," and workshops emphasize take‑home projects. Visitors choose from short classes (one to two hours) and longer creative sessions, enjoying practical instruction and outdoor exploration within the farm’s diverse natural landscape.
Reservations and detailed event listings are available through the farm’s public schedule for each offering. The location in Syria, Virginia provides access for travelers exploring the Blue Ridge region and central Shenandoah Valley.
Location
Syria, Virginia
Located in Syria, Virginia.
Farm Size
1800 acres
Extensive trails and natural areas.
Experiences
10 offered
Workshops, hikes, fishing, dance.
Duration Range
1–5.5 hours
From one‑hour yoga to 5.5‑hour painting.
Reserve workshops, guided hikes or fishing lessons in Syria, Virginia — secure a spot for family‑friendly classes and outdoor adventures.
Wear sturdy footwear
The trail features rocky and uneven terrain, so hiking boots with good grip are recommended.
Bring enough water
Carry at least 2 liters of water to stay hydrated throughout the day.
Check weather before hiking
Weather can change quickly along Skyline Drive, so dress in layers and be prepared for sudden shifts.
Respect wildlife habitats
Keep distance from animals and do not feed them to preserve the area’s natural balance.
Hiking boots
Provides necessary ankle support and traction on rocky and uneven trail surfaces.
Water bottle or hydration pack
Keeps you hydrated during the moderately long hike, especially in warmer months.
Layered clothing
Allows flexibility to adjust for fluctuating spring temperatures and variable weather.
spring
Insect repellent
Protects against mosquitoes and ticks common along forested sections in summer.
summer