If you’ve been hibernating under warm blankets near the fire, it’s time to come on out and rejoin the world. Spring in the Shenandoah Valley is not a season you want to miss!
Awaken all your senses with a weekend in the mountains or along the rivers of the Valley. The wildflowers are emerging, trees are budding, and the afternoons are warmer. It’s the perfect time to hit the refresh button on life.
Nature is Refreshing
About those wildflower and whatnot … we have a great list of which flowers to look for and where they might be found. Some are harder to spot since their “flower” isn’t what we commonly think of. Take the Jack-in-the-Pulpit, for example. Its green is the perfect camouflage on the forest floor.
Popular places to enjoy the birth of the new season are parks and gardens, like Glen Burnie Gardens at Museum of the Shenandoah Valley in Winchester, Edith J. Carrier Arboretum in Harrisonburg, Boxerwood Nature Center & Woodland Garden in Lexington, and Birdsong Pleasure Garden in Luray (available by appointment only).
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To truly get away from it all and soak in the fresh wonder of spring, Shenandoah National Park is an amazing destination. Hundreds of miles of trails, waterfalls, and wildlife await.
Babies!
The arrival of new life gives us life. Burdens melt away when you see lambs or tiny bunnies. Watch for nesting birds; before long, ducklings and goslings will take their first dives into our streams and ponds.
If you’re on Skyline Drive, you’ll want to watch for bears. Always, but especially this time of year when cubs are born. It’s also important to follow the speed limit so you don’t risk hitting a cub or its mama. Sadly, orphaned cubs are a reality in the Shenandoah Valley. The Wildlife Center of Virginia in Waynesboro does a great job of nursing and nurturing wild animals when the need arises (plus, you can visit!).
To see farm animals, head to Frontier Culture Museum in Staunton. The working farms in the open-air museum are home to a variety of animals giving birth this season. This is where you will readily find lambs and calves.
See the rare and minor breed animals, walk through authentic gardens, help harvest period crops, watch a blacksmith at work, and visit with the farm interpreters to share a lesson of courage, heritage, and determination. Frontier Culture Museum. Sarah Hauser Photo. Virginia Tourism Corporation, www.Virginia.org
Rejuvenation
For some folks, a reboot requires complete serenity. If the hikes and babies didn’t do the job, perhaps an escape that includes spa services will set things in motion.
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Capon Springs and Farms in High View is an ideal place to unplug and cast your cares away. There are more than 4,000 acres to explore at the 19th century all-inclusive resort. It’s like going to sleepaway camp but on your own terms: hide with a book, golf, fish, or do whatever your heart desires. But know this: your meals are provided on a schedule, and that’s the best news ever. There’s no thinking involved!
While you’re at Capon, be sure to book some time at Hygeia Bath House & Spa. The natural spring waters fuel the experience. Soak in a private bath and add a treatment or three for the ultimate pampering.
Capon Springs and Farm opens for the season May 2, 2024
Header Image: Shenandoah National Park. Scott Jacobson, IG account: @scottjacobsonphotography; courtesy of Virginia Tourism Corporation