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The easiest day trips from Blacksburg are outdoors: the Cascades waterfall near Pembroke, Dragon's Tooth and McAfee Knob on the Appalachian Trail toward Catawba, Mountain Lake Lodge in Giles County, and Claytor Lake State Park in Dublin. Here's what each is good for, how long it takes and where to park.
Updated October 2026 · By Michael Arthur, Blacksburg Connect
A 4-mile loop to a 66-foot waterfall, about 30 minutes from downtown. Parking is $3. Trail details: Best Hikes Near Blacksburg.
Swimming, a full-service marina with boat rentals, camping, cabins, and hiking and biking trails. Take I-81 Exit 101; the park is at 6620 Ben H. Bolen Dr. There's a parking fee. (Virginia State Parks)
A 4.6-mile hike on the Appalachian Trail, 30–40 minutes from Blacksburg. Details: Best Hikes.
A hike of just under 8 miles round trip, 40–45 minutes from town. In 2026 a weekend shuttle runs Friday–Sunday, March 6–Nov. 29, from I-81 Exit 140. Details: Best Hikes.
The historic mountain resort in Giles County where Dirty Dancing was filmed in 1986. 115 Hotel Circle, Pembroke.
For a waterfall, Cascades (half a day). For big views, McAfee Knob or Dragon's Tooth (a full day). For a lake day, Claytor Lake State Park.
Claytor Lake State Park in Dublin has a swimming area. Check the park's site for the season and hours.
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