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With ample opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, off-roading, camping, spelunking, waterfall chasing, and just simply taking in the natural beauty of the nearby Blue Ridge Mountains, Front Royal, Virginia attracts local nature-lovers and global outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Situated in the Shenandoah Valley, this charming small town offers easy access to the northern entrance of Shenandoah National Park’s Skyline Drive as well as the nearby George Washington & Jefferson National Forest and thus miles of trails and dozens of scenic overlooks.
Front Royal is located just over an hour from Washington, DC, making it the perfect weekend getaway destination for outdoorsy Washingtonians and adventurous residents of the greater DMV.
After living in DC for upwards of 10 years, we’ve spent many weekends exploring Front Royal. On our most recent visit, we watched the sun both rise and set from Appalachian mountain peaks, chased waterfalls, enjoyed local beer at some of the state’s most scenic breweries, and relaxed in the most beautiful cabin in the woods. We’re sharing all of our recommendations for planning your own adventurous weekend in Front Royal below.
Where to Stay in Front Royal, VA
Front Royal is home to ample cozy Airbnb cabins, and we recently stayed at two that we highly recommend.
- Crème de la Crème Haus: If you’re looking to stay somewhere that is immaculately designed and a bit off the beaten path, we couldn’t recommend Crème de la Crème Haus more. We were invited to stay for a weekend and had the absolute best time (cabin tour here). This property is equipped with a hot tub, outdoor fireplace/lounge area, and three beautifully decorated guest bedrooms, making it the perfect place for a family or friends getaway.
- Venture Cabin: Located about 15 minutes south of Front Royal is Venture Cabin. This spacious three bedroom home live up to its name – it is an adventure lover’s paradise! With two outdoor swings, a fire pit and a sweet game room, this beautifully designed oak cabin was the perfect home base for our weekend in the Shenandoah Valley.
Where to Explore in Front Royal, VA
Front Royal itself provides access to countless opportunities for outdoor recreation; the Appalachian Trail, Shenandoah National Park, George Washington & Jefferson National Forests, and Sky Meadows State Park are some of our favorite places to hike, chase waterfalls, and adventure in the area:
Appalachian Trail
The Appalachian Trail, known colloquially as “The AT,” is one of the most famous hiking trails in the world, and it directly intersects Front Royal, Shenandoah National Park, and George Washington and Jefferson National Forests. We recommend checking out the unique geologic formations at Compton Peak, catching a sunrise atop Buzzard Hill, and watching the sun kiss the Blue Ridge Mountains at Bear’s Den overlook at dusk (before heading to Bear Chase Brewing Co. for local beer and wood-fired pizza).
Shenandoah National Park
Shenandoah National Park is located just south of Front Royal, and the park’s singular road, Skyline Drive, provides access to a wide variety of hiking trails and scenic overlooks. Below are some of our favorites:
- Compton Peak: This unique trail holds the title of being Shenandoah National Park’s closest summit hike to DC, and with its section of columnar jointing (formed by ancient lava flows), it provides hikers with a little taste of Iceland in Virginia. Compton Peak Trail is 2.4 miles out-and-back and moderately rated with 855 feet of elevation gain.
- Overall Run Loop Trail: This difficult 8.5-mile trail takes hikers to the tallest waterfall in Shenandoah National Park – the 93-foot-tall Overall Run Falls. It’s a great trek for experienced hikers, with a variety of terrain, views, and several swimming holes that are perfect for cooling off on hot summer days.
- Signal Knob Overlook: This sunset spot requires no hiking and is just a short drive south from Front Royal along Skyline Drive.
Sky Meadows State Park
Sky Meadows State Park is located slightly northeast of Front Royal and offers 24 miles of hiking trails with beautiful views of the surrounding area. Some of the most popular trails in the park include the Piedmont Overlook Trail and the North Ridge Trail. The park also offers opportunities for fishing, camping, birdwatching, and leaf peeping in the fall. Sky Meadows has also been named a Dark Sky park, so the stargazing here is next level.
George Washington & Jefferson National Forests
- Buzzard Rock: Buzzard Rock is a great option for those looking to hike a unique and scenic trail. The trek to the summit of Buzzard Rock is approximately 4 miles round-trip and is rated as moderate to difficult. When you reach the summit, you’ll be rewarded with beautiful 360-degree views of the surrounding landscapes, making it an ideal hike for sunrise or sunset.
- Buzzard Hole: Located just below Buzzard Rock in Passage Creek, this swimming hole is the perfect place to cool off on a hot summer day!
- Elizabeth Furnace Recreation Area is located in the heart of George Washington National Forest and offers visitors opportunities for hiking, camping, fishing, mountain biking, and more. If you’re interested in camping, there are sites available for both tents and RVs.
Skyline Caverns
Holding the title of being the closest natural wonder to the Nation’s Capital, these 60 million-year-old caverns are worth visiting. One hour guided tours are offered from 9AM – 4PM daily (discount here). The site is also home to a miniature train and a mirror maze that provides above-ground fun for adults and children alike.
Things To Do After Adventuring in Front Royal, VA
After you’ve finished adventuring for the day, head into Front Royal and check out the murals and boutiques that line Main Street. You can enjoy a mead tasting at Honey and Hops Brew Works or bop around the Virginia Beer Museum. When you’re ready to chow down, know that this small town offers a range of dining (and drinking) options that suit every taste and budget. Whether you’re in the mood for fine dining or a quick beer, you’re sure to find something delicious to eat and drink here.
Restaurants, Eateries & Cafes
- Daily Grind Coffee House & Cafe: For a quick pre-adventure breakfast or caffeine fix, head to Daily Grind. You’ll find an array of breakfast sandwiches, bagels, and pastries on their breakfast menu as well as soups, salads, and sandwiches for lunch.
- Spelunker’s Burgers & Frozen Custard: For a classic American meal that will quench any and all post-hike hunger pains, head to Spelunker’s. They’re famous for their burgers, but hot dogs, sandwiches, and salads are also on the menu. Their delicious frozen custard is also a MUST.
- Soul Mountain Restaurant & Bar: This spot is located in the heart of Front Royal and is one of the best places to go if you’re looking for an affordable meal that is made from locally sourced ingredients. They are known for having the best BBQ in the valley but also offer a variety of vegan and vegetarian menu options as well.
- Pavemint Taphouse: This self-proclaimed “farm-to-street” grill, offers BBQ street food options made using locally sourced products that are served up in a newlyrenovated, 1960’s gas station. You can’t go wrong with ordering any one of their burgers or combination platters, and Aleah is obsessed with their mac-n-cheese.
- Element: If you’re looking for a more upscale experience, look no further. Element offers a seasonal menu that features locally sourced ingredients, creative dishes, and craft pizzas.
Breweries in/near Front Royal, VA
Vibrissa Restaurant and Brewery: Located in the heart of Front Royal, Vibrissa offers guests delicious post-adventure food (we are also obsessed with their mac-n-cheese) and equally delicious craft beer. They’re also home to Basecamp, which according to their website, can be described as “a unique day facility that offers AT thru-hikers, section-hikers, kayakers, bikers, and climbers a place to store gear, shower, and do laundry before hitting the trail again.”
Dirt Farm Brewing: Situated on a picturesque farm surrounded by mountains, this family-run brewery is known for its stunning views and commitment to farm-fresh beer and food.
Backroom Brewery: Located 15 minutes outside of Front Royal, Backroom holds the title of being Virginia’s “first farm brewery” and offers a range of traditional and experimental craft beers as well as pub fare – all made using locally-sourced ingredients.
Bear Chase Brewing Company: Situated on a 50-acre farm in Bluemont, Virginia, this brewery offers outdoor fire pits, cozy outdoor igloo domes, and a range of craft beers that are made using natural ingredients. Their taproom features a cozy ambiance and offers indoor and outdoor seating options, as well as a food menu that includes wood-fired pizzas and small plates.
The Virginia Beer Museum
To date, this museum is the “only beer museum” in the state of VA. The Virginia Beer Museum is a must-see destination for those interested in the history of brewing in Virginia, or anyone who just loves a good beer! It is home to interesting exhibits, like its collection of antique beer bottles and cans, and interactive experiences, including a tasting bar where visitors can sample beers from Virginia’s many breweries. The bar showcases a rotating selection of beers, so there’s always something new to try. The museum also hosts live music, tastings, food pairings, and other events.
Front Royal, Virginia is well known and loved for its beautiful scenery and outdoor recreation opportunities and we hope this guide is helpful for planning your next outdoorsy weekend in the area.
And no matter where your adventure takes you, always be sure to be prepared with the 10 Essentials and practice Leave No Trace principles to preserve our natural spaces for years to come.
