If you’re a Waynesboro local and haven’t been living under a rock, you’ve probably heard about the city’s newest outdoor asset: Sunset Park. If you’re planning a visit, Sunset needs to be on your short list of things to do. Perched high above downtown Waynesboro, this park offers amazing bird’s eye views of our beautiful town and the Shenandoah Valley, but the history and intentional construction of Sunset Park is also interesting, so let’s take a look at how the town dump turned into the town gem!

A Blast from the Past (Literally)

First off, let’s talk history. Contrary to popular belief, the summit of Sunset Park wasn’t technically a landfill. You can see where the former landfill was as you drive up, marked by gas monitoring units.  Before the landfill, a quarry operated at the site, known for mining minerals including quartzite and manganese oxide. Take a look at the picture below and you can see what an eyesore the quarry was from Downtown. After the quarry closed, the landfill opened and started filling in the hole with the town’s trash. So, while you are sitting in the park on your picnic blanket, rest assured you’re not on top of trash, the trash is a part of the drive up. The quarry closed in 1976 and the landfill opened up maintaining operations at the Sunset site until 2003. It was closed, capped and seeded, and sat vacant for the next 19 years.

Building the Park

A decade after the landfill closed, the city started taking steps to provide a passive recreational area and development of trail systems for walking and mountain biking. Waynesboro’s Parks and Recreation utilized the services of Community Design Assistance Center from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University to help develop a master plan for the development of Sunset Park.

The city eventually recognized the property as a park which allowed for the pursuit of grant funding for the creation of the park. In 2018 the City of Waynesboro received a VDOT Recreation Access Grant to make vital upgrades to the existing gravel road leading through the landfill to the future park. After numerous setbacks, construction finally started in 2023 using State and Local Recovery Funds authorized by the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA).

Hiking and mountain bike trails have been professionally designed through the efforts of the Shenandoah Valley Bicycle Coalition (SVBC) and 1 mile of the 4.5 miles of planned trails have been completed and is open for use. Parks and Recreation will continue to partner with SVBC to identify funding sources for the trails.

On June 4, 2024, Sunset Park had its grand opening. In the first week over 4,000 vehicles made their way up the hill to take a look at the park and the spectacular views and trails.

It’s the Little Things

The Parks and Recreation staff, including director Dwayne Jones and project manager Stephanie Seltzer, spent a lot of time making sure every last detail was intentional and well thought out. Take the restroom building. It looks super nice at first glance, but if you look deeper, you’ll see it kind of looks like a train station. And that’s because it was designed to. Take a look at Basic Union Train Station that, once-upon-a-time, sat right below Sunset Park. The park’s 40’ x 50’ shelter is also a throwback to rail structures from the 1800s, with post-and-beam trusses that give it a historic feel. The shelter was prefabricated in Michigan and assembled by a team from North Carolina. Not your average park bathroom and shelter, amiright?

Sunset Park also has nine ADA-accessible picnic tables that seat up to 72 people and three sun-shaped bike racks that were purchased with help from a Virginia Tourism Corporation DRIVE Outdoor Grant.

Another cool thing about Sunset Park is, well, the sunsets. Sunset Park is the first Waynesboro city park designed to be open past dusk so you can enjoy the city lights and the sunset. There are also lights to guide you back to your car after dark, and dimmer lights at the overlooks to keep the vibe just right and not overpower the sunset. The pavilion even has lights that can change color with the seasons or be customized for events.

Sunset Park is a true labor of love from Waynesboro’s Parks and Recreation department and, with over 4,000 cars making the trip to the park in the first week of opening alone, a resounding success. Take a trip up to see the magic and tag us in your sunset pic! #LoveWaynesboro

 

 

Ready to pack the car full of kids, gear, and snacks, and get out of town for the weekend? Load up the playlists and head north along the 1-81 corridor. Explore the sites and towns along the way, making sure to include a leisurely drive along a section of the Blue Ridge Parkway. Finally, make Waynesboro your home base for a few days of fun before heading home.

Route section #1: I-81 to Blue Ridge Parkway

Start your adventure by heading north on I-81 through the beautiful Shenandoah Valley to Lexington. Follow Route 11 and then Route 56 west to the Blue Ridge Parkway at Tye River Gap, Milepost 27.2. The magnificent Blue Ridge Parkway stretches 569 miles along the Blue Ridge Mountains. Refer to the interactive map for info about trails, campgrounds, waystops, road closures, and overlooks.

Where to Eat

Theyre hungry already? Fill up on comfort food and 50s-themed nostalgia at Natural Bridges Pink Cadillac Diner. Another great place to feed the crew before traveling on the Parkway is Whites Travel Center in Raphine. Whites is designed for travelers on the long haul, and youll find numerous fast food options if you’re in a hurry.We suggest grabbing some takeout to make a picnic at one of the Parkways fantastic overlooks.

Must-See Sights

There are many great places to pause along this stretch of your journey, but keep an eye out for a few of our favorites…

Buchanan Swinging Bridge: Just a quick hop off the highway, your family will thrill to see this 366-foot long, 57.5-foot high pedestrian bridge that spans the James River and dates back to 1851.

Natural Bridge: Stop to gawk at Natural Bridge State Parks 215-foot limestone arch, discover living history at the Monocan Indian settlement, and hike the seven miles of trails. Kids will also get a kick out of feeding the animals in the drive-through habitats at Virginia Safari Park.

Parkway and nearby: Two short but wonderful hikes are Crabtree Falls and White Rock Falls, which travel along or to waterfalls. The Parkway has numerous opportunities to pull over and admire the scenery.

Outdoor Options

Numerous hiking trails in the Glenwood and Pedlar districts of George Washington and Jefferson National Forest can be accessed from the Blue Ridge Parkway. If your family is into fishing or paddle sports, the portions of the James and Maury Rivers that make up the Upper James River Water Trail meander for 74 miles. Bikers should pedal the 7-mile Chessie Trail that stretches along a former railroad bed hugging the Maury River and connecting Lexington and Buena Vista.

Where to Stay

If your family likes camping, make reservations at the Natural Bridge/Lexington KOA, where you can camp or rent a cabin. Camping cabins are barebones, but deluxe cabins include room for six, kitchenettes, and cable TV. Another good bet is the Montebello Camping and Fishing Resort, which has camping, cabins, and fun amenities like trout fishing, a playground, and a 4-acre lake for paddling.

Route section #2: Blue Ridge Parkway to Waynesboro

Waynesboro is called the Gateway to Skyline Drive and the Blue Ridge Parkway, and at just four miles away from the entrances, its an ideal place to rest and replenish after a long day of driving and outdoor fun. Waynesboro has much to offer the road-tripping family, including family-friendly places to eat, a wealth of outdoor experiences, and a downtown filled with shopping, dining, and culture.

Where to Eat

Waynesboro is home to many restaurants with amenities like outdoor seating and kid-friendly menus. Take everyone for BBQ or fried catfish at The Fishin Pig where kids eat free on Wednesdays, and there is live music in the outdoor “Pig Pen every weekend. Benny Stivales in downtown serves up 28-inch pizzas that require two plates for a slice! And if your entire party enjoys burgers, try Tailgate Grill for classic beef burgers and shareable portions of crispy french fries.Dont forget to round out your meal with fresh, custard-style ice cream at Kline’s Dairy Bar or delicious soft serve atWillys Ice Cream.

For craft beer fans, Basic City Beer Co. issure to please. This kid-friendly microbrewery offers taproom or outside seating for sipping cold brews and enjoyingbrick oven pizza, shareable small plates, and “fancy-full” hot sandwiches,while the younger set stays occupied with games like corn hole and skeeball. Stable Craft Brewing is another solid option with a beach volleyball court, corn hole golf (yes, you read that right), and horses for the kids to pet.

Must-See Sights

Nurture the budding artist in your family with a trip to the Shenandoah Valley Art Center, a working studio and gallery with a gift shop all in one, and the P. Buckley Moss Downtown Gallery. For educational and stimulating activities for both the older generation and kids, check out at the Waynesboro Heritage Museum which features timely, pop-up exhibits throughout the year. Or try the Plumb House Museum, a site along the Civil War Trail, and the Russell Museum which houses the astounding art legacy of Walter and Lao Russell.

Download the Traipse app for an adventure thats part walking tour, part scavenger hunt and discover the thriving mural scene in Waynesboro, which has been nourished in recent years by the annual Virginia Street Art Festival.

Treat the family to the wholesome experience (and photo opps) of picking pumpkins together at Troyer’s Fruit Produce Farm. The farm is offering their ten-acre corn maze again this year, plus seventeen acres from which to pick your perfect pumpkin!Another nearby place to catch shots of the family solving a corn maze and enjoying other outdoor activities is Skeeters Maze Adventure.

Outdoor Options

The South River Greenway stretches 1.2 level miles along the South River and is perfect for a family stroll or bike ride. Take in views of the city, the Blue Ridge Mountains, our river-themed LOVEworks, and the water, which is habitat to many species of fish and birds.

Waynesboro boasts a robust park system with walking trails, playgrounds, and a 9-hole, par 31 Frisbee golf course at Coyner Springs Park. Additional golfing options can be found at Waynesboro Golf and Games, which has a par 3 course for both traditional golf and soccer golf, as well as a mini golf course. If fast cars are more your speed, cheer for your favorites during the drag racing at Eastside Speedway on Friday and Saturday evenings.

Let the kids get some energy out on a short hike! Visit Shenandoah National Park for the Blackrock Summit hike, which is a 1-mile addition to the Track Trails for Kids program and includes an activity to go along with the hike. Nearby Humpback Rocks can be accessed at Mile Post 5.8 along the Blue Ridge Parkway. The steep mile up to the overlook pays off with heartstopping views of the Shenandoah and Rockfish Valleys. For an easier stroll that gives a look at the geology of the area, try Greenstone Overlook at MP 8.8.

Where to Stay

Your whole family will be happy staying at the locally-owned and newly renovated Best Western PLUS. This pet-friendly hotel has an indoor heated saltwater pool and is close to downtown Waynesboro, shopping, and dining. If youd rather camp, try the North 340 Campground with its sports fields, basketball court, and playgrounds, or Sherando Lake, which has a sandy beach, swimming area, and miles of hiking trails.

What Next?

Waynesboro is fun in all seasons. Make sure you plan your next road trip for when the leaves are full of fall colors and the local farms are selling pumpkins. Consider other Virginia road trips at Virginia.org/WanderLove.

If you love traveling with your four-legged children, you have to plan ahead to make sure you stop at places where they are welcome. Good thing we’ve done the planning for you! Read on for a roundup of businesses and places of interest that welcome fur babies as well as people.

Basic City Beer Co.

Basic City Beer Co. offers a chance to kick back and have a beer with Fido, as long as he’s on a leash. You’ll enjoy a range of tasty craft beers as well as bistro-style sandwiches and Billy Pie brick oven pizza. Basic City has lots of room to spread out, both inside and out, and the tap room is close to downtown Waynesboro, Constitution Park, and the Greenway, all nice places to stroll with your dog.

Seven Arrows Brewing

Another good spot to taste craft beer is the taproom or deck at Seven Arrows Brewing. Select from 12 beers on tap and enjoy upscale pub fare from onsite Nobos Kitchen. Dogs are welcome inside and out.

Barren Ridge

Take a short drive into Augusta County to find Barren Ridge Vineyards. As long as there are no ticketed events happening, leashed dogs are welcome to check out the incredible view of the vineyards and distant mountains while their owners enjoy their favorite wine by the glass or bottle or sample a flight of different varietals.

Ice Cream

Do you and your pooch enjoy sharing a cold treat? Both Kline’s Dairy Bar and Willy’s Ice Cream have pet-friendly outdoor tables where you can share a cone and a pup cup with your furry pal. Kline’s makes fresh and delicious custard-style ice cream every morning using a time-consuming (but worth it!) production method called “continuous freeze,” which reduces the air incorporated into the ice cream and results in a denser, creamier product. Chocolate and vanilla are always on the menu as well as a weekly special flavor (or two). Willy’s is known for their delicious, classic soft serve, as well as specialty desserts such as a banana split or brownie supreme. Check out their Facebook page on Fridays to see the weekly “Friday Favorite,” then head to Willy’s to receive 10% off of that special treat.

Dog Friendly Hotels

Making your dog stay in the kennel when you travel can be really sad for both of you. Why not spare the heartbreak and bring Fido along? While many hotels allow pets, they may charge additional fees and limit the size of your pack. Waynesboro’s pet-friendly accommodations are all within easy driving access of downtown and other attractions. They include Best Western Plus, which allows dogs up to 80 pounds in its pet-friendly rooms and features an outside area with baggies ($15/day). The Comfort Inn also allows dogs, but limits them to 25 pounds ($20/pet fee); the Days Inn allows dogs (two-pet limit, $15/pet); and for extended stays, the Residence Inn allows dogs, cats, or birds (two-pet limit, $100/stay, 50 pound maximum).

Waynesboro Parks

Leashed dogs are welcome in the Waynesboro parks, and the trails in Ridgeview Park as well as the Greenway offer lots of distance to stretch your legs. The crown jewel for the off-leash crowd, however, is Coyner Springs Park, which includes a large, dedicated area for dogs to romp off leash. This 145-acre park features a large open area for off-leash fun. It should be noted, however, that this area is not fenced. There’s also a large section of the park that is wooded with trails (dogs must remain leashed here) and lots of water (and mud) for romping.

National Parks and Forests

Shenandoah National Park is one of the few national parks allowing pets on most of its trails. In fact, as long as Rex is up-to-date on his shots, stays on a leash, and you stay responsible, he is allowed to hike nearly 500 miles of trail as well as in campgrounds! Make sure you provide drinking water, pack out his waste, and check him for ticks when you finish. Dogs must be leashed in George Washington and Jefferson National Forest while on the hiking trails, but may be released in undeveloped areas.

If you’re thinking of getting a pet (or fostering one!), check out the Augusta Regional SPCA, Shenandoah Valley Animal Services Center, or Augusta Dog Adoptions.
Always make sure your dog is leashed and well-behaved when you take it in public. Dogs must be vaccinated and licensed.

Nestled in the heart of Virginia’s picturesque landscape lies the historic Blue Ridge Tunnel Trail, an emblem of engineering marvel and natural beauty. This trail promises a unique hike for history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Unveiling History:

Originally constructed as a rail passage in the mid-19th century, the Blue Ridge Tunnel was the longest tunnel in the United States at the time of completion. Carved through the Blue Ridge Mountains at Rockfish Gap, this tunnel’s creation was an engineering feat, constructed by 800 Irishmen and 40 enslaved African Americans. Watch The Tunnel for a compelling and well-produced 35 minute documentary about the construction and people of Blue Ridge Tunnel or stop by the Waynesboro Heritage Museum for more information and a free booklet about the Tunnel’s storied history. Its conversion into a hiking trail offers a unique journey through time and nature.

Trail Details:

Spanning approximately 3.7 miles, the trail traverses through the refurbished train tunnel which is .81 miles. With entrances at both east and west sides, visitors can choose their starting point. The eastern trailhead, located at 215 Afton Depot Lane, is a flat access, ADA accessible entrance with plenty of parking only .63 miles from the trail. The western trailhead, located at 483 Three Notched Mtn Hwy, is a steeply graded intermediate hike and is .81 miles from the parking lot to the tunnel entrance. The trail’s moderate difficulty level ensures an enjoyable hike for most skill levels.

Pre-Hike Options in Waynebsoro:

Start your adventure in Waynesboro at Happ Coffee Roasters located in the Virginia Metalcrafters Marketplace. Grab an artisanal coffee and pastry in the industrial-chic vibes of the roastery. If you need something a more substantial, Weasie’s Kitchen is a local favorite for a classic diner breakfast. Stock up on some kombucha from Blue Ridge Bucha on your way up to the trail. Blue Ridge Bucha is Virginia’s first full-service kombucha taproom and on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays you can taste some flights or kombucha by the glass and pick up growlers, bottles, or cans to-go.

Post-Hike Bliss:

After your trek, unwind by exploring Waynesboro’s vibrant downtown arts scene or doing the interactive outdoor Street Arts Trail. Waynesboro also has plenty of boutiques, museums, and local dining options in the charming downtown. Check out the Wayne Theatre’s calendar for local productions as well as renowned national acts year-round.
The Virginia Metalcrafters Marketplace is another spot in Waynesboro to unwind after the Bule Ridge Tunnel Trail. Grab some delicious Italian inspired cuisine at Patina, catch a show at the Foundry or try local wines at Common Wealth Crush, a custom crush and wine incubator co-op. Basic City Beer Co. and The Showroom are also in VMM where you can have some craft beer or a speak-easy inspired cocktail while catching a free show and playing some arcade games.

Nearby Adventures:

For avid explorers, the proximity of the Shenandoah National Park offers a perfect extension to your trip. Discover the park’s numerous hiking trails, breathtaking vistas, and the scenic Skyline Drive less than 2 miles away from the Tunnel.
The Blue Ridge Parkway, renowned for its stunning views, starts right at the terminus of the Skyline Drive. In just the first five miles of the 469-mile drive, you can stop at a scenic overview, hike the famously rewarding Humpback Rocks Trail, and visit the Humpback Rocks Visitor Center and Mountain Farm Trail where you can take an easy .25 mile hike through an outdoor museum that is reminiscent of an 1890s mountain farm.

Connection to Appalachian Trail:

Waynesboro serves as an ideal gateway to the Appalachian Trail, drawing hikers seeking an iconic long-distance trek or a quick day hike on the world famous trail. Only 2 miles from the city’s limit, the AT fosters a deep-rooted connection of nature enthusiasts, hikers, volunteers, and those who share a love for the outdoors. Learn more about the AT and the trail towns that support it from the Appalachian Trail Conservancy.

The Blue Ridge Tunnel Trail not only offers a glimpse into history but also serves as a springboard to a multitude of nearby adventures. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, art lover, or an avid or casual hiker, Waynesboro’s charm and its proximity to these iconic attractions make it the perfect basecamp for an unforgettable exploration of Virginia’s beauty.
Plan your visit to Waynesboro and the Blue Ridge Tunnel Trail for an enriching journey through time and nature, connecting with history and embracing the splendor of the outdoors.