Washington: Side Trips

For a true wilderness experience, drive out to Shenandoah National Park, about two hours from D.C. in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia. You can go biking, fishing or just drive along the scenic Skyline Drive, a popular fall-foliage expedition for locals. Shenandoah also has some excellent hikes, including 101 miles of the Appalachian Trail. You can make it a day trip or, if you really want to commune with nature, spend the night in one of the park's campgrounds. For a nicer bed and a fine dinner after a long day of exploring, make your way to the Joshua Wilton House.

• 1. Shenandoah National Park
  Blue Ridge Mountains, VA; 540-999-3500 38.517735-78.43693 nps.gov/shen
• 2. Joshua Wilton House
  412 South Main Street, Harrisonburg, VA 22801; 1-888-294-5866 38.445146-78.870091 joshuawilton.com