Family Birding Adventures in Shenandoah Valley
Virginia Birding and Wildlife Trail
Want beautiful settings, fresh air, exciting wildlife sightings and healthy exercise on the next family adventure? Lace up the hiking shoes, grab some binoculars and a bird book, and head out for the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia’s portion of a statewide Birding and Wildlife Trail. The program links wildlife viewing sites across the state, and is a great way to introduce the whole family to bird watching and soak up some amazing Virginia history and landscape at the same time. The trail celebrates Virginia’s diverse natural wildlife habitats that are home to 400 species of birds, 150 species of terrestrial and marine animals, 150 species of amphibians and reptiles, and a wide variety of aquatic and terrestrial invertebrates. YuLee Larner, Staunton,Virginia’s well-known bird enthusiast and columnist, recommends three terrific birding sites for families on the Forest Trails Loop of the Birding and Wildlife Trail.
Montgomery Hall Park Trails Offer Great Family Outing Options
One of YuLee’s favorite spots is Montgomery Hall Park in Staunton. The park sports a trail in her name that is a winding path through the rolling hills and woodlands, suitable for all ages and fitness levels. Once there, birders will find not only the nature and fitness trails, but picnic shelters, tennis courts, playgrounds, and sports fields—all the makings of a great family outing.
Just the Facts: Montgomery Hall Park, Staunton, VA. Phone: Staunton Parks and Recreation (540)332-3945. Website: City of Staunton
Augusta Springs Wetlands Trail Has Accessible and Diverse Birding
Yulee also recommends Augusta Springs Wetlands Trail, located in the North River Ranger District, George Washington National Forest. Augusta Springs is a two-thirds mile long boardwalk loop that is handicapped-accessible and interpretive. Eleven stops along the route are designed to highlight the habitats of meadow, forest, and wetlands while offering some historical facts about the area as well. Kids can learn about and observe a wide-range of plants and animals along this leisurely trail.
Just the Facts: Augusta Springs Wetlands Trail. Phone: North River Ranger District (540)432-0187; (866)-904-0240. Website: North River Ranger District
McCormick's Farm and Marl Creek Interpretive Trail Shows Birds in Three Types of Habitats
History and nature also come together on YuLee’s birding choice at McCormick’s Farm, a memorial area near Raphine dedicated to Cyrus McCormick and his family. Marl Creek Interpretive Trail is a half-mile wildlife corridor and water protection area offering loads of information about habitat, stream and pond health, as well as some history about the plants and animals in that location. YuLee states that 117 species of birds have been counted on the Marl Creek Trail, and visiting families have an opportunity to see plenty of birds that inhabit all three types of bird habitats. Check out the historic blacksmith shop that has been converted to museum, grist mill, and manor house at McCormick’s Farm as well, for an educational and energizing day.
Just the facts: Marl Creek Interpretive Trail at McCormick’s Farm. Phone: (540) 377-2255. Website: McCormick’s Farm
Getting the family excited about getting out in nature is easy by hitting the Virginia Birding and Wildlife Trail in the Shenandoah Valley. Don’t miss the state’s abundant opportunities to learn about and interact with nature in family-friendly birding and wildlife watching destinations.
Birding in Virginia Great Family Activity
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