Things to Do

Birding & Wildlife Trails

The trails within Shenandoah National Park, which borders Rappahannock County to the west, offer superb opportunities to observe birds and wildlife. Guided walks with park rangers are available. You may also follow the self-guided Skyline Drive loop of the Virginia Birding and Wildlife Trail, which is one of 65 different loops throughout the state. The loops are divided into three sections— Mountain, Piedmont and Coastal. The trail is not an actual footpath but a series of stops through different areas of Virginia that offer good wildlife viewing opportunities.

Rappahannock County is situated to allow easy access to several of the trail loops. Within the county and to the north is the Front Royal loop. To the southeast is the Culpeper loop. Caledonia Farm 1812, in Rappahannock County, is the first stop on the Front Royal loop of the Mountain section. Caledonia is a working farm and B&B, with plenty of fields, edge ecosystems, forest and ponds that attract many species of birds in the spring. For your safety and in consideration of the private residence at Caledonia Farm 1812, please phone ahead to set up an appointment by calling 540.675.3693. The hours are from sunrise to sunset. Out of all 65 loops, Caledonia is the only “private stop” requiring a call ahead.

The Virginia Birding and Wildlife Trail Guide describes each of the 65 loops throughout Virginia. It may be purchased from the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries for $8.50 by calling 866.74VABWT or by going to its website. Descriptions for each loop and each stop on the loop may also be downloaded from that website.

The Rappahannock League for Environmental Protection also has a wealth of information on wildlife and the environment in the county.

Rappahannock League for Environmental Protection (RLEP)
RLEP strives for environmental protection of open space and the rural character of Rappahannock County and the preservation of natural and historic places, wildlife, ecosystems and farm economy. In addition, RLEP provides information and education on environmental issues and assists the community planning efforts of local governmental bodies.
www.rlep.org
mail@rlep.org
540.317.1449
291 Gay Street PO Box 94 / Washington, VA
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