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Tailgating is fun; everyone knows that. But what if it's also contributing to the fact that those jeans are becoming harder to zip?
With autumn now upon us, what better way to experience the natural beauty of the New River Valley and get active at the same time than with a hike on one of the many trails surrounding Blacksburg?
Some avid hikers might be looking for a new trail, others might be looking to get out of town and have fun with friends.
"Fall is one of the best times to hike in this area because of the beautiful colors of foliage," said Cass Hancock, a representative from the Eastern Divide Ranger District. "The Jefferson National forest contains some of the most beautiful scenery in Virginia," Hancock said. "It's important to take water and a snack, but please keep the forest free from trash. It's best to take a friend or let someone know where you are going in case you get into trouble; cell phones can be good but can lose service on these hikes."
The NRV has trails that range from a laid-back pace to a challenging hike. The guide below should help you determine which trail best suits you.
Cascades
The Cascades, located in the Jefferson National Forest, are something of a rite of passage for any Virginia Tech student. This is a moderate hike that takes you on a four-mile loop alongside Little Stony Creek.
The hike will have you crossing bridges, climbing stone stairs and passing cataracts on the way to the breathtaking falls.
"The cascades have some of the highest elevation points that provide amazing views of the area," Hancock said.
Once you arrive at the Cascade Falls, your conversation about who Brett Michaels finally chose to be his rock of love will hopefully be drowned out by the water crashing 69 feet into the pool below.
Wooden stands have been constructed at one side of the pool to allow for a good vantage point. If you wait until summer finally decides to move on, you can see ice formations hanging from the cliffs that surround the falls.
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