Time to get outside!
Spring has finally Sprung and to me, that is nothing other than a green light to get outdoors! The indoor crafts and activities that got me through the cold months of winter are officially being put in the closet and my entertainment will be supplied strictly by UV rays and Mother Nature.Thankfully, Harrisonburg is known for the variety of outdoors activities and locations to do so. As we are in the beginning of the season, here are just a few ideas of where to kick your Spring off in the right direction!
Lavender farm
Get some fresh, lander infused, air at White Oak Lavender Farm located in Harrisonburg. This relaxing, not to mention beautiful, lavender farm is blooming as we speak. Enjoy their home-grown spa products, events, classes, and other activities that is anything and everything lavender… talk about relaxation and rejuvenation !
Edith J. Carrier Arboretum
Whether you are a student at JMU, local, or just in town, the JMU Arboretum is a beautiful botanical garden that basically screams Spring. They have more kinds of flowers than you can count, all centered around a beautiful duck pond with plenty of green space to sit and soak up the nature. Surrounding the Arboretum is also a series of trials to explore as you enjoy the urban garden scenery.
The Arboretum is named after and dedicated to former JMU president’s wife, Edith J. Carrier. Their Mission is “To inspire outdoor engagement in a woodland sanctuary” and has remained active place of community in Harrisonburg.
Hiking
Spring is the perfect time to take a hike! It’s not too cold out, but not too hot to where I can make it up a mountain without a heat stroke! If you are located in Harrisonburg and haven’t already noticed, we are conveniently surrounded by the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains and Appalachian Trail with a plethora of hikes and views that are unmatched. They have trails that accommodates everyone’s needs and preferences, so even if you aren’t the biggest hiker, there will always be a trial for you to reap the benefits.
If you are looking for easier hikes and trails, I recommend the Shenandoah Lake or Hillandale Park. If you want a birds-eye-view end to your trail, I highly recommend High Knob Lookout. These are just to name a few of the plethora of hikes around us, but this is none-the-less a great place to start kicking of Spring!
Vineyards and wineries
Lastly, the grape vines are now in season and visiting a vineyard is a great way to socialize and indulge will enjoying the scenic amenities! Blue Stone Vineyard and Brix and Columns are the one’s closest to Harrsionburg, but a brisk 30 minutes drive towards Charlottesville will lead you to many more!