Sky Meadows State Park, Delaplane

This park happens to be one of my favorites to hike in both spring and autumn. Multiple trails allow for both gradual or steep elevation changes and woodland and meadow views interspersed with most trails over a mile or so long. Hikes at this park can be challenging for some and exhilarating for others. The trail map available at the park can show which trails will be more demanding elevation and/or length-wise. Additional trails exist at a separate section of the park down the road from the visitor center with separate parking. The park offers different shows and festivals on specified weekends at various times during the year such as the historical reenactment happening when I visited on a fall Saturday. Volunteers handled a higher volume of cars skillfully, and parking turned out to be ample. Rangers were friendly and helpful explaining trail options and activities at the park. All in all a great place to spend an afternoon or even the entire day.

I went there for a nice Saturday hike. I chose to do the Piedmont Overlook to the the North Ridge loop. The Piedmont Overlook is pretty steep with areas to sit halfway and at the top of the overlook. It was really cool because you walk in the enclosure with the cows. So, pets need to be leashed and children attended too! There are lots of other trails on the grounds some that connect with the Appalachian Trail. It's $10/car to park. Cash can be paid at the booth before entry OR at the visitors center. They were having fun fall events when I went. There is good signage and maps as well at the start with ample parking!