Oakton Outlook September 2019 Issue

40
The Five Hidden
Treasures of Virginia
holland cogan | staff writer
Must see destinations for both Virginia tourists and residents alike
The beauties of Virginia are often overlooked, even by Virginia residents themselves, due to the bustle of everyday life.
This is unfortunate, seeing as there are many treasures hidden in the history-rich state that deserve their time in the spotlight.
Here are a few underrated spots that deserve more recognition.
Courtesy of
Smithsonian
Magazine
1. Staunton River state park
A sight for the Stars. Staunton River State park is beautiful in daylight,
but magnificent at night.It is the first Virginia State park to be named an
International Dark Sky park. Park officials go through lengths to make
sure no obstructions are in view and use approved dark sky fixtures in
cabins andparking lots. The Dark sky observation Area is the destination
for astronomers and stargazers.
2. Presidents Heads
A mini Mt.Rushmore sitting in a field, Croaker, Virginia is home to the Giant
President head statues. An eerie destination where tourists seem to flock to take
photos of the crumbling twenty foot statues. There are tours during the day and
night, but many say that the evening tours give off an unsettling vibe. This could
be a spooky destination for upcoming fall activities and good photos. However,
due to the decaying of the statues, people have limited time to venture out and
seek the statues out
3. Fairy Stone State Park
Fairy stones, folklore, and intriguing backstories oh my! Fairy stone state
park is known for the mysterious “fairy stones” that are embedded in the
soil of the park. It is said that the cross shaped stones come from crystallized
fairy tears. If that isn’t enough to catch a person’s attention, other areas of
interest include the Park’s beautiful views of Fairy Stone lake, and a rich
history dating back to the 1920s where it was a mining community with occasional
moonshine activity( illegal alcohol brewing). The trails lead to an old
mine shaft, great views, and cabins.
4. Lake Ann Van Gogh Bridge,Reston
Springtime is a prime spot for the Lake Anne Van Gogh Bridge, located in Reston.
The bridge is a picturesque view and is surrounded by pink cherry blossoms. It can
be found along a running trail and offers a break from the commercial area around it.
The structure was based off of Van Gogh’s paintings of bridges in Arles, France. Daria
Ausen (11) says she would go there because “ I like Van Gogh, and because I would take
pictures there. “
Courtesy of Virginia
Department of Conversation
and Recreation
5. Huntley Meadows Park
Take a stroll on the wooden docks of the park’s wetlands, venture into the meadows
filled with wildflowers, or look out on the park from the observation tower. Huntley
Meadows Park offers water trails on its numerous rivers and land trails that have
Native American roots.
Courtesy of Public Art Reston