Explore Natural Tunnel State Park

Get back to basics with a natural escape to Scott County in Virginia's Heart of Appalachia region.

Day 1

Cabin stays are all leisure all the time, so settle in and unwind in PapPaw's Cabin or an Appalachian Mountain Cabin in Duffield. Porch-sit and soak in autumn's beauty this evening as you finally catch your breath from life's daily grind. If you didn't bring your stock, be sure to stop by Food Country Deli and Subway in Duffield. They have all of your grocery needs, plus a deli so that you can pack your picnic lunch for tomorrow's explorations.

Day 2

Lace up the hiking boots and grab your walking stick for today's trek, Natural Tunnel State Park (map). Expect to see the 10-story natural tunnel, even more picturesque when viewed from the chair lift (fall weekends). Eight trails vary from a tenth of a mile to just over a mile. Three of the trails will accommodate cyclists, if you happened to bring two wheels to ease the burden on your two feet.
Blaze the Tunnel Trail to pick up the Log Cabin Trail where you will find the Carter Log Cabin, previously part of the legendary, musically-inclined Carter Family. Lover's Leap Trail leads to none other than Lover's Leap. Perhaps your explorations will lead you to something unexpected.
Dine on specialty pizza, hoagies or pasta at Steph & Andy's Pizza Plus in Duffield, or prepare a grilled meal at the cabin. Unwind from the day's hike with a stunning mountain sunset.

Day 3

You may not have known it, but this whole trip has included the Daniel Boone Wilderness Trail. Which way is home? If headed southeast, be sure to stop in Gate City for lunch at The Mustard Seed Cafe. The town's history places it on the Daniel Boone Wilderness Trail by virtue of being attacked by Chief Benge of the Chickamauga Cherokee in 1791. All were killed except for a child who was taken into captivity.
If traveling southwest, Powell Mountain Overlook is a great place for a souvenir photo of your visit to the beautiful Heart of Appalachia.

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