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Camp Fire Surrounded by Friends | Madison, VA

Take the Ford and Discover These 3 Camping Spots Near Madison, VA

Are you ready to take your Ford F-150 on a family vacation near Madison, VA? This spectacular region features excellent camping spots, whether you're looking for a rugged adventure with a tent or an RV resort with great amenities. 1. Madison Vines RV Resort & Cottages This fantastic campsite is the ultimate destination for RVs and cottage rentals. Madison Vines RV Resort & Cottages offers a scenic place for your next weekend getaway, or a family vacation, with convenient access to nearby attractions and outdoor activities. This top-notch resort features excellent amenities during your stay, including laundry facilities, private restrooms, showers, and indoor entertainment, including a gym, billiard room, and TVs. There are cottages available for rent, catch and release fishing, an outdoor pool, and great family-friendly activities. Madison Vines RV Resort & Cottages is perfect for families and visitors of all ages, and pets are welcome. more 2. Graves Mountain Farm Campground Graves Mountain Farm Campground is the perfect escape from the city if you're looking for a beautiful, secluded place to set up your tent or RV or rent a cabin for your next trip. This wonderful campground features a variety of activities, including hiking and equestrian trails, fishing ponds and streams, an on-site market, lodge rooms, and seasonal events. There are plenty of facilities, including an outdoor pool, hookups for RVs, and live music and performances. This fantastic place provides a venue for private functions and group events, which is available year-round. When you book your stay at Graves Mountain Farm Campground, you can choose from various packages, including fly fishing, storytelling, horseback riding, hiking, and much more. It's a popular destination for group travel and school trips, with fantastic educational opportunities and access to nearby natural wonders. 3. Cedar Mountain Campground Cedar Mountain Campground is a scenic place to book your next vacation in your RV or tent. There are plenty of tent and RV sites, a propane station, full RV hookups, local social activities, access to a fishing pond, and nearby attractions, including the Luray Caverns, Skyline Drive, and Mt. Vernon. If you're visiting with a group of friends or the whole family, there is a large pavilion available for picnics and outdoor parties. If you enjoy hiking or boating, Cedar Mountain Campground is close to the Rappahannock River, which is ideal for canoeing, and the Blue Ridge Mountains, which are fantastic for a scenic drive or hike. On your next drive through Madison, you'll find spectacular campsites, outdoor excursions, and breathtaking scenery. Visit us at Madison Ford and discover what deals we have to offer you from our fantastic showroom of new and pre-owned vehicles today.

3 Favorite Camping Destinations Near Madison, VA

A weekend camping is a great way to reconnect with nature and explore the great outdoors. If you live near Madison, VA, you'll find there are lots of great spots to discover, so we've made this list to help you find the perfect outdoor destination for your next vacation. more 3 Favorite Camping Destinations Near Madison, VA 1. Luray RV Resort on Shenandoah River Formerly known as Outlanders River Camp, Luray RV Resort is situated in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley in Luray, VA. It is a great place to combine nature with a modern camping twist. The area has many local attractions such as George Washington National Park, Shenandoah National Park, Luray Caverns, and much more. It is an excellent place for fishing, hiking, or boating and offers vacation cabin rentals, riverfront tent camping, and full hookup rv sites. You can also explore a little further out and head into town, less than 4 miles away, to enjoy zip lining, antique shopping, boat rentals, horseback riding, and superb local dining. Whether you are looking to explore nature, have a family getaway, or just relax, you will find what you are looking for here. A 100-acre retreat that offers you beautiful views of the Shenandoah River and the mountain ranges of Blue Ridge and Massanutten Mountain, Luray RV Resort is the perfect place to getaway. 2. Shenandoah Valley Campground An excellent spot for a family camping adventure, the Shenandoah Valley Campground is the only campground in Virginia with its own waterfall and indoor hot tubs. There is also a nice sized pool and kiddie pool that is heated during the colder months where kids will love a day of splashing, while everyone will enjoy the 18-hole mini golf and game room. There's also shaded back-ins and pull throughs alongside the river, activities and events, golf cart rentals, and so much more. The park campground is designed with families in mind and has over 120 sites to choose from, of which many have full 30- or 50-amp electrical hookups, while the remainder are non-electric tent sites. Most of the sites include a grill, fire ring, and a picnic table, and are close to the campground facilities, which include a camp store with groceries and camping supplies, and a bathhouse with hot showers, flushing toilets, sinks, and a laundry. 3. Shenandoah River State Park This oasis of quiet and calm on the South Fork of the Shenandoah River is the perfect place for outdoor recreation, with endless opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and more. The park is also a great spot for horseback riding, hiking, bike riding, and other adventures. The park has a huge area that includes lots of camping options across its twelve separate tent and RV camps. There are also several areas for cabin camping if you miss the comforts of home.  Ten of the cabins and a lodge include access to modern amenities. You'll probably be charged an entrance fee for the campsites on top of the one to enter the park. If you've got the outdoors bug after reading this list, you'll need a high-quality car to get you there. Visit Madison Ford today, and our professional and friendly staff will be more than happy to help.

Where to Find the Best Mexican Food Near Madison, VA

Get all the best flavors from south of the border right here in the Madison, VA area when you visit the restaurants we highlighted below. Each of them puts their own spin on this much-loved cuisine to deliver you some of the best Mexican food you can get anywhere. Try out any of the places from our list and we guarantee you'll walk away smiling and satisfied. more Where to Find the Best Mexican Food Near Madison, VA El Agave Delicious and authentic food is waiting for you right here in our neighborhood from the chefs at El Agave. Their nachos make the perfect start to your meal, with tortilla chips piled high and dressed with all the toppings you could ask for. Their shrimp fajitas is the perfect meal for anyone who likes seafood, with a sizzling plate of fillings to go with the tortillas they serve you. La Naranja Fresh Mexican and Tex-Mex food makes for some delicious eats when you stop in at La Naranja. One of the most popular types of tacos they have to choose from is their al pastor tacos. The contrast between the savory vertically roasted pork and the chunks of sweet pineapple makes for a flavor combination we absolutely adored. Their homemade tamales are also definitely worth checking out when you visit this spot. Los Tres Hermanitos A unique dining experience guided by the principle of maintaining a good relationship with their local community makes your visit to Los Tres Hermanitos a memorable one. Though they’re not your normal sit and serve restaurant, their food is made to order. We recommend their asada fries, with a cheesy mix of queso and mozzarella with lettuce, pico de gallo, sour cream, and your choice of meat. Follow it up with xhango, Mexican cheesecake chimichangas, for dessert! La Chiapaneca Winner of the “2020 Best Food Truck Award” in the Best of Your Hometown Culpepper Star Exponent, you already know the food at La Chiapaneca is going to be top notch. They won't fail to deliver on that promise no matter what dish you order here. Our go-to meal here is their carne asada tacos, but you can’t go wrong with anything on their menu.  If you are looking for great Mexican food with a hint of Salvadoran flavor, this is the place for you. My Avocado Mexican Grill with A Mediterranean Twist My Avocado Mexican Grill with a Mediterranean Twist is a fast casual restaurant that offers a twist to your usual Mexican cuisine with the addition of Mediterranean food and a vegetable and smoothie option. You can also build your own burrito or burrito bowl to get a meal of your own creation, choosing from their list of proteins and toppings to create the flavor you want. Save room for dessert, because the pastries are made fresh daily from all natural ingredients and will delight your sweet tooth. Great food and exceptional service are both waiting for you at these top-notch Mexican restaurants. For a great deal on a new or pre-owned vehicle and that same standard of exceptional service, come to our dealership. Visit us today at Madison Ford, where we treat all of our customers like they're a part of the family!

6 Favorite Biking Trails Near Madison, VA

Madison, VA is a lovely little city known for its beautiful mountains and foothills. With plenty in the area to go out and explore one popular method of doing so is biking. The area is home to a plethora of biking trails that are sure to be a worthwhile experience. more 6 Favorite Biking Trails Near Madison, VA 1. Blue Ridge Tunnel Trail Blue Ridge Tunnel Trail runs for 2.25 miles in the Blue Ridge Mountains of central Virginia. It was originally designed by Claudius Crozet, a French engineer, to allow passage through the mountains from Blue Ridge Railroad to the Shenandoah Valley.  The actual tunnel stretches for nearly a mile and is located in Rockfish Gap, a wide gap in the mountains. The gravel lined trail goes from leveled on one end to steep on the other depending on your starting point. If you are biking this trail, come prepared with a bike light, as there are no lights inside the tunnel. 2. Hawksbill Greenway Trail Located right outside of Madison in Luray, Virginia, the Hawksbill Greenway Trail is a well maintained, paved trail that runs along the Hawksbill Creek.  Though the trail only stretches 2 miles, it is very scenic and sectioned by color to making it easier to recognize locations. There are a variety of activities that attract many visitors as well as scenic murals, benches and picnic tables, vibrant murals, and it is known for having tons of wildlife to watch, angling, and birding.  The trail is also accessible to the historic downtown Luray, which makes it another luxury of the greenway. 3. Rivanna Trail Stretching for roughly 21 miles, Rivanna Trail surrounds Charlottesville, VA and connects many parks along its route. It follows the Rivanna River and runs alongside several of the city’s neighborhoods.  The trail has a mixture of surfaces but is marked with brown trail blazes for the spur trails and green for the main loop.  Riverside park offers as the best starting point for this trail. 4. Virginia Central Railway Trail Virginia Central Railway Trail is two disjointed segments that combine to form a 4-mile trail through Fredericksburg and sits halfway between the state’s capital and the nation’s capital.  The trail will eventually extend to around 30 miles and will follow the former rail line, from which the trail was named, that will connect 3 major battlefield sites of the Civil War in Fredericksburg, Wilderness, and Chancellorsville. The trail offers scenic views of the historic Virginia Central Railway trail bed and Hazel Run. 5. Rappahannock Canal Walk Located northwest of downtown Fredericksburg, the Rappahannock Canal Walk (Canal Walk) runs along the old canal. It runs for 1.8 miles and connects with the Rappahannock Heritage Trail (Heritage Trail) and making a trail loop that runs about 3.5 miles. This trail is fairly popular and features public art with benches along the trail. 6. Rappahannock River Heritage Trail Also known as the Heritage Trail, the Rappahannock River Heritage Trail 1.6 miles of paved route in Fredericksburg. It connects to the Rappahannock Canal Walk (Canal Walk) and offers a beautiful view of the Rappahannock River. The trail runs into Old Mill Park where you can find picnic shelters and restrooms. Being able to get yourself and your biking equipment around in one piece is extremely important. Contact Madison Ford and find the Ford that will deliver you and your passengers to your destination safely.

7 Favorite Lunch Places in Madison, VA

There are so many great places to grab lunch that it can be difficult to decide where to eat. Let's take a look at some of the best lunch places in Madison, VA. more 7 Favorite Lunch Places in Madison, VA 1. Mad Local American Eatery Mad Local American Eatery, located at 218 N Main St, Madison, VA, is an all-American style restaurant and has quickly become one of the most popular lunch spots in Madison. The menu is simple, which makes it quick to choose what you want during the lunch rush. They specialize in a little bit of everything from cheeseburgers to seafood, and they have great sides to choose from. With their vegetarian options, everyone can enjoy something off the menu. 2. Miranda’s Restaurant At 217 N. Main Street, you'll find Miranda’s Restaurant, a quaint little cafe with home like feel, a modest bar, and a cozy outdoor seating area that is both dog friendly and perfect for relaxing. The menu will appeal to your pallet with your choice of American or Italian cuisine, as well as vegetarian and gluten free options. If you are looking for a nice place to take your family that offers comfort food that will make you think you are eating a home cooked meal, Miranda’s Restaurant is exactly where you want to be. 3. The Bavarian Chef If you prefer something a little different from the standard soup-and-sandwich lunch spot, head to 5102 S. Seminole Trail. The Bavarian Chef features classic German and European fare such as weiner schnitzel, Bavarian sausage, and forelle müllerin’. Known for their hearty meal options and family style sides, you are guaranteed to leave with a full stomach. If you like appetizers, try the Hungarian gulaschsuppe, cream of wild mushroom soup or oompa shrimp, which is lager battered with sweet & spicy sauce. 4. Yoder’s Country Market 2105 S. Seminole Trail is home to Yoder’s Country Market, a local market spot known for selling locally grown meats and produce with a café that serves breakfast and lunch. While you shop, grab a freshly made sandwich, salad, or smoothie, all made from fresh daily from scratch. Don't miss the Sandwich of the Week when you visit, which will be a sandwich not offered regular menu. 5. Pig N Steak Pig N Steak at 313 Washington St. is a favorite lunch spot for locals because of their fast service and fair prices, but it is their food that really draws the crowds. Don’t let their absence on menu mislead you, steak options are available, you just have to ask your server. Their barbecue is hickory smoked straight off the pit, it keeps people coming back for more. Don't miss it! 6. Giovanni’s Italian Eatery Giovanni’s Italian Eatery is located at 2679 S. Seminole Trail. This restaurant features a simple yet satisfying menu that serves authentic Italian food. Try one of their famous strombolis or gourmet pizzas for lunch. Follow up with an Italian cannoli or chocolate mousse for dessert. 7. Vintage Restaurant The Vintage Restaurant in The Inn at Willow Grove is an upscale restaurant that resides at 14079 Plantation Way in Orange, VA right outside of Madison. This elegant eatery is housed inside a three-story 18 th century plantation house with a beautiful patio option that makes dining a relaxing pleasure. While it's easy to get lost in the stunning decor, it is the food that really shines. Their Sunday brunch menu features dishes like steak and eggs benedict, jumbo shrimp and grits with andouille sausage, and crushed avocado toast along with fresh salads, and delicious desserts. While you're in the area, you might like to take a look at the well-stocked inventory of vehicles at Madison Ford. They are ready and willing to help you get into the vehicle of your dreams.

3 of the Best Fishing Spots Near Madison, VA

Located in the northern part of the state, about 90 miles southwest of Washington, D.C., the city of Madison, VA, is not far from several national forests, state parks, and other nature reserves that offer endless opportunities for fishing, boating, kayaking, canoeing, and other water spots. If you are looking for the best fishing spots in the area, where you can spend some quality time with friends or family, these are some destinations you should check out. more 3 of the Best Fishing Spots Near Madison, VA 1. Shenandoah National Park Located a little under 30 miles from downtown Madison, Shenandoah National Park is one of the most beautiful natural reserves in the state of Virginia. Spanning an area of almost 200,000 acres, it covers part of the Blue Ridge Mountains and features stunning landscapes, rolling hills, hiking trails, waterfalls, streams, and ponds. More than 40 fish species can be found here, making the park an excellent fishing destination for anglers from the area. Established in 1935 and managed by the National Park Service, Shenandoah National Park receives more than one and a half million visitors each year. Some of the fish species anglers can find here include brook trout, brown trout, and rainbow trout. While visiting it as part of a day trip from Madison is manageable, the park also features numerous campgrounds where you can spend the night under the stars. 2. Lake Anna State Park Managed by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation, Lake Anna State Park is located in Spotsylvania County, about 35 miles southeast of downtown Madison. This state park covers an area of over 3,000 acres and was established in 1983. While fishing is one of the most popular activities, the park is also a top-rated spot for swimming, camping, boating, picnicking, hiking, mountain biking, wildlife watching, and other outdoor sports. Driving from Madison to Lake Anna State Park takes about 50 minutes, following State Route 629. Once you make your way to the entrance of the park, make sure to ask for a map of the designated fishing areas. Some of the most commonly found fish species include largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, white catfish, channel catfish, bluegill, and white perch. Before you visit this park, make sure to check out the regulations published on their official website. 3. Smith Mountain Lake State Park Covering a surface area of over 20,000 acres, Smith Mountain Lake is the second largest body of fresh water in the state of Virginia, and a popular fishing destination among anglers from all over the region. Home to large populations of striped bass, smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, bluegill, and sunfish, it is a fantastic spot for a day trip with your friends. Getting here from downtown Madison takes about two and a half hours by car, driving along route US-29. Are you looking for a new or pre-owned vehicle to check out these fantastic destinations and go on memorable road trips? Visit us at Madison Ford and a member of our team will tell you all about the different deals we have available for you.

Cheeseburgers, fries, drink, and ketchup on a table

Where to Find the Best Burgers in and Around Madison, VA

Madison, VA has been a crossroads of history for over 11,000 years. Early settlers of the town in the 18th century included English, German, Scottish, and Irish families, and many descendants of these families still live in Madison today. For those who love the outdoors, Madison is a wonderful place to visit due to its beautiful mountains and foothills. For those who are foodies, we have also created a list of where to find the best burgers in and around the town! more Where to Find the Best Burgers in and Around Madison, VA 1. Graze to Griddle Graze to Griddle is located in the nearby town of Culpeper and launched in the winter of 2019. The restaurant serves 100% grass-fed beef burgers as well as fries, cheese curds, and drinks. Some of Graze to Griddle's available burgers include an Original "Graze" Burger, a Chicken Burger, and a Chorizo Sausage Burger. The restaurant also has an option where you can build your own burger with a mix of complementary and/or premium toppings. 2. Tastee-Freez Tastee-Freez is a fast-food restaurant that is located directly in Madison. The restaurant serves burgers, soft-serve ice cream, sundaes, freezees, shakes, floats, hot dogs, and sandwiches. Some of Tastee-Freez's available burgers include a Big Tee Burger, a Big Country Burger, a Tastee Cheeseburger, and a Tastee Burger. If you're looking to pair your burger with something sweet, consider ordering the restaurant's banana split! 3. The Wolf's Fixins Barbecue The Wolf's Fixins Barbecue is located in the town of Ruckersville and is a locally owned, independent barbecue restaurant. The restaurant is open every day except for Tuesdays and sells a variety of starters, barbecue, and burgers. Available burgers include the BYO Wolf Burger, where you can choose what toppings you would like to add on top of your hamburger patty and what side you would like, and the Smokehouse Burger. 4. Jackleg Sandwich Despite its name, Jackleg Sandwich sells a lot more than just sandwiches! Jackleg Sandwich is located in Culpeper and serves various appetizers, pizzas, burgers, sandwiches, salads, sides, and desserts. All of the restaurant's burgers are served with a side of potato chips or a side salad. Available burgers include the OG, the Appalachian, the Steakhouse, and the El Paso, which you can choose to order as a single or double. 5. Mad Local American Eatery Mad Local American Eatery is located in Madison and is an American eatery serving local beef, chicken, pork, seafood, and produce. The restaurant is veteran-owned and operated and offers the option to order online. Mad Local American Eatery serves appetizers, salads, burgers, sandwiches, sides, and drinks. If you're looking for something spicy, consider trying the restaurant's Bringing the Rain burger, which is topped with 50-Caliber hot sauce! Once you've found the perfect burger you've been craving and your stomach is full and happy, it is a great time to search for the new car you've been wanting. Stop by Madison Ford today and browse our selection of Fords! We are devoted to serving our customers to the best of our ability and offer only the highest quality cars.

Scoops of ice cream

5 Fantastic Spots for Ice Cream Near Madison, VA

When you live in a place like Madison, VA, there are certain things that you should never be without. One of those is ice cream! It is the perfect way to cool off on a hot summer day. Whether you are looking for chocolate, vanilla, or fruity flavors, Madison has some delicious options that will leave you wanting more! If you are in town and want to take advantage of these yummy spots then check out the following list. more 5 Fantastic Spots for Ice Cream Near Madison, VA 2. Dairy Queen Dairy Queen is the perfect place to go when you're craving something sweet. They have all your favorite flavors like chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry. But they also have some unique flavors that are sure to satisfy your taste buds. One of their newest flavors is called “Cookie Dough Blizzard,” which tastes just like cookie dough! It's so good you'll want to lick the spoon! 2. Ben & Jerry's Ben & Jerry's is the place to go for all your favorite cones. They have over 20 flavors, with something for everyone! They have been around for decades, and they're still going strong. Ben & Jerry's make their own waffle cones and serve them up in cups or cones, sundaes, shakes, malts, and more. Stop by today to try some of their famous flavors like Americone Dream or Cherry Garcia! 3. Grammie's Ice-Cream Grammie's has over 20 different flavors to choose from! You can't go wrong with their most popular flavor, Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, try one of their more unique flavors like Maple Bacon or Coconut Lime Sorbet. Whether it's vanilla or chocolate chip, strawberry or mint-chocolate chip, their range is sure to please! Come on in and enjoy some delicious scoops that suit your mood best. 4. Moo Thru Moo Thru is one of the newest additions to our small town. They have plenty of flavors of cone and sorbet, including vegan options! Their cones are made fresh in front of you with any flavor combination you can imagine. And they also offer dairy-free soft serve so everyone can enjoy their delicious treats. 5. Flotzie's Soft Serve You don't have to go far for your next scoop of cream- just stop by one of their locations in Madison. They're open late every night so you can enjoy a cone after dinner or on your way home from work. And if you need something to wash it down with, they've got some great coffee options too! They have something for everyone, from the classic vanilla soft serve to the decadent chocolate soft serve with whipped cream. Their most popular flavor is probably the strawberry cheesecake soft serve topped with graham crackers and whipped cream. We hope that you have enjoyed this list of the best spots to treat your sweet tooth in Madison, VA. If you are looking for a new car, we also would love to help. Visit Madison Ford today and one of our sales representatives will be happy to show you some options on your next vehicle purchase.

Blueberries and sunrise

6 Things to Love About Madison, VA

If “Virginia is for Lovers,” Madison, VA is for absolutely everyone. This county abounds with history, culture, and natural beauty. From scenic mountain trails to decadent wine tastings, Madison County has something to delight every visitor. Here is a small taste of what the county has to offer: more 6 Things to Love About Madison, VA 1. History Madison is brimming with history. The county has played host to Paleo-Indians, the Knights of the Golden Horseshoe, General Stonewall Jackson, and the summer camp of President Herbert Hoover. History buffs will love taking a walking tour down Main Street and visiting historic destinations such as the Madison County Court House, the Madison County Library, the James L. Kemper Residence, and the Graves Mill Historical Park. 2. Outdoor Activities Visitors can take part in a huge array of outdoor activities set in the county's majestic landscape. Shenandoah National Park boasts breathtaking natural beauty and hiking trails such as Old Rag and the White Oak Canyon and Falls. Outdoorsy types can otherwise take in the county's picturesque scenery while fishing, hunting, birdwatching, horseback riding, or apple picking. 3. Wineries The rich landscape of the Central Virginia Piedmont is also apparent in the nationally and internationally recognized quality of its local wines. Adult visitors to Madison have the opportunity to responsibly participate in tastings and tours at the five wineries scattered across the county, including one of Virginia's oldest and largest wineries and one of the state's first solar-powered wineries. Please do not drink and drive. 4. Festivals Madison County is famed for its many festivals. Bluegrass fans will love the Graves Mountain Festival of Music, while families will enjoy attending the annual Graves Mountain Apple Harvest Festival and Peach Day Festival. Visitors to Madison County are otherwise able to take in its distinctive culture at the Taste of the Mountains Festival, Hops Festival, and Hoover Ridge Wool and Wine Festival held each year. 5. Places to Stay Madison has no shortage of accommodation options to suit every traveler. Visitors looking to ensconce themselves in the county's breathtaking landscape can set up camp near Shenandoah National Park. Those looking for a little more comfort will love their stays at the various suites, cabins, lodges, houses, and B&Bs spread across the county. If you can't make up your mind, stay at the luxurious yurts available at Rose River Farm and have the best of both worlds. 6. Shopping Remember your time in Madison County by picking up a keepsake you'll treasure forever at one of its many local shops. Decorate your home with handcrafted furniture available at stores like Yoder's Country Market and Clore. For the most comprehensive selection of wares made by local artisans, peruse the unique handcrafted items on offer at the Madison Arts Exchange. Once you've checked out the beautiful scenery, fun activities, history, shopping, wine, festivals, and quality accommodation that Madison has to offer, stop by Madison Ford to discover great deals on a range of quality vehicles.

Feet walking through rocks

5 Best Hiking Trails and Paths Near Madison, VA

Madison County, in which lies the city of Madison, VA is one of the best places in the state to explore on foot. With its rich heritage and incredible views, everywhere is a new adventure. Perhaps the best place to start is Shenandoah National Park, especially when the fall paints the trees in majestic reds and golds. Here are some of the best hiking trails to be found in this beautiful region of Virginia more 5 Best Hiking Trails and Paths Near Madison, VA 1. Old Rag Mountain One of the most popular hikes on the mid-Atlantic coast, this moderately challenging trail rewards hikers with some spectacular views from the 3,300-foot high summit. As it is such a popular trail, the path can get very busy at the weekends, especially in spring and fall. An especially magical experience can be heading out on a summer evening. Not only will you beat the crowds, but you'll be lucky enough to experience the magical twilight on your way down. Just make sure you take a flashlight in case it gets dark before you complete your hike. 2. White Oak Trail Less challenging, and somewhat less busy, White Oak Trail follows the line of a steep gorge along the course of the Robinson River, which tumbles in a series of incredible waterfalls beside the path. The path is especially amazing in winter when the river freezes in a series of surreal icy structures. However, makes sure you dress warmly, as the spray and foggy mist from the main waterfall at the head of the gorge can soak you to the skin very quickly. Taking crampons, if you have them, can help avoid some unfortunate slips and falls. 3. Hoover Ridge Park For a less strenuous, and possibly safer hike, head to Hoover Ridge Park for a relaxing stroll through the woods. The trails here are much flatter, and most are a mixture of paved trails and gravel underfoot. While you're there, take in the many activities available at the park, such as fishing, camping, and the golf course. 4. Hawksbill Gap This looped trail utilizes the Appalachian Trail System. Follow the AT's distinctive white blazes to the top of the summit, where unforgettable panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and Shenandoah Valley await you. Follow the Summit Trail back to the parking lot. The trail is fairly easy to hike, although expect some rocky terrain on the AT portion of the trail. The summer sees an influx of hikers and parking can be a challenge, so get there early to enjoy the waterfalls and views undisturbed. 5. Dark Hollow Falls One of the most scenic trails close to Skyline Drive, this trail starts at the Dark Hollow parking area near mile 50.7 and wends its way down to the falls. In spring, expect to see mountain laurel blossoms along the park. The trail is fairly steep, so take it easy on the way back up; luckily, it is well shaded with trees that keep out the summer heat. These are some of the best trails nearby, but in this beautiful area there's adventure around every corner, so head outside today. Need a great quality new or used vehicle for your adventures? Visit Madison Ford to speak to our friendly team.

Golf club and golf ball

7 of the Best Golf Courses Near Madison, VA

Madison, VA has plenty of attractive features, but its golf courses are one thing that stands out. There are tons to choose from, so let's examine the highlights that outshine the rest. more 7 of the Best Golf Courses Near Madison, VA 1. Shenandoah Golf Club Shenandoah Golf Club is perfect for people visiting Madison on a day or weekend trip. You pay by the day and don't need a membership to take advantage of the luscious courses. Around since 1966, there are nine holes for you to sample. Perfect if you don't want your game to run long with the whole 18. 2. Meadowcreek Golf Course Another public course, this one is a short drive from Madison and offers 13 time slots for you to play on any given day. There are several open slots on each, so there's almost always a chance for you to get in and play. Established in 1974, the course has 155 acres of lush grass, lakes, flowers, and tremendous oak trees to view as you play. 3. Caverns Country Club For another course with a view, the Caverns Country Club is nestled between the Shenandoah River and the Blue Ridge mountains. With landscape views and trees by the hundred, you're in for a true leisurely, picturesque golfing experience. Available to play by the day, there are 18 holes you can peruse and when you're done, the club provides meals and lodging. 4. Spring Creek Golf Club Spring Creek Golf Club is known and loved nationwide. The courses are contoured but allow for an easy game with views of thick greenery along the way. The club caters to avid golfers, but you can also dine and book weddings and banquets there if you enjoy the venue. 5. Birdwood Golf Course Another club course offering more than golf, Birdwood features endless greens for your golfing, but if you're a novice, you can avail of lots of practice and instruction. Learn from a professional golfer and practice indoors with the golf simulator. Once you play a real game you can visit the spa and end the day with dining. 6. Woodstone Meadows Golf Course One of the newer courses on this list, Woodstone Meadows has been around since 1998 and caters to novices and pros alike. The greens are mostly flat, far from mountainous, and are entirely beginner-friendly. Anyone can walk in and try out the 18-hole offerings, and if you're feeling confident, take on the challenges in place for expert golfers and see how well you do. 7. Shenvalee Golf Resort If you like variety, Shenvalee Golf Resort offers 27 holes broken down into nine-hole courses. All three courses have been used by PGA golfers, including the legendary Bobby Jones in 1927. There are modern additions too, such as a new sport called "FlingGolf" that the resort implemented in 2016. There's plenty of fun, no matter your preference. Your legs will be tired after walking all those courses, so stop by Madison Ford after your game to browse our vast range of new and used vehicles that you're destined to adore.

Kids running in a field

5 Great Kid-Friendly Activities for Families Near Madison, VA

Are you in search of kid-friendly activities in and around Madison, VA? Look no further. We've got you covered with exciting adventures and unforgettable experiences! The beautiful mountains, hills, meadows, and rivers provide ample opportunities for family fun and great adventures. more 5 Great Kid-Friendly Activities for Families Near Madison, VA 1. Float Down the Shenandoah River Just 23 miles away, you can take the kids to float leisurely on a tube around an island and down the Shenandoah River with Shenandoah River Adventures. If you feel a bit more adventurous, you can also take a wild, thrilling ride through a stretch of white water. The trip is approximately an hour and twenty minutes long and suitable for everyone in the family. 2. Overnight in a Mountain Cabin There are beautiful rustic cabins scattered in the breathtaking Blue Ridge Mountains between the trees in Shenandoah National Park. You and your family can spend quality time living in nature, gathering firewood, cooking on a wood-burning stove, and exploring the natural surroundings. Jones Mountain Cabin is a two-story log cabin with a wooden deck, a loft, and a pretty little spring nearby. The historic Corbin Cabin is a mountaineer's cabin down a 1.5-mile scenic hike with a cozy fireplace where you and the family can enjoy the wonders of nature. 3. Play Freely in Nature at Wildrock Have a family fun day 30 miles from home and run wild playing, exploring, and creating with your children at Blue Ridge Foothill Playscape and Discovery Center. Here you can watch your kids splash around in the stream, tumble down hills, and built a fort. The Playscape offers 12 play zones, including a Play Wildlife Rescue Station, Hobbit House, and an Adventurer's Camp Ground. There are the self-guided Tree Walk and Preschool Trails and educational field trips for the whole family. 4. Zip Through the Forest Adventure awaits in Luray, 38 miles away at Bear Mountain Ziplines! Swing, climb and glide over a 50-acre forested area and enjoy the panoramic view from above. You will ride up a beautiful mountain road behind a tractor to where the Mama Bear Zipline Tour will take you on a thrilling ride. Seven zip lines will take you flying through the forest canopy. The tour takes approximately an hour and ends with a glide over a meadow to a three-story high tower. 5. Explore the Caverns The region has countless caverns just waiting to be explored. The Luray Caverns are the largest and most beautiful of the caverns. It is also the biggest in the eastern United States. The caverns have paved walkways, cathedral-like rooms ten stories high, and breathtaking underground displays. Discover the wonderland of the Shenandoah Caverns, formed millions of years ago by rivers and movements to create spectacular rock formations. The Grand Caverns is a National Natural Landmark and offers various tours on the history of the caverns. Have a rip-roaring time with your family and create unforgettable memories with your loved ones on these fantastic adventures. Contact Madison Ford today, and our expert technicians will ensure that your vehicle is in perfect running condition before you hit the road for a fun family outing.

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