Are you looking for adventure in a small-town setting? Then look no further than Basye, VA – the perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Boasting breathtaking mountain views, serene lakes, a plethora of outdoor activities, and plenty of delicious local delicacies, Basye is a tiny town with something for everyone. From fishing on Lake Laura to sipping wine at RHouse Wine & Café, you’ll never run out of things to do here. And if you’re daring and adventurous, why not go to the Chalet High Activity Center or Orkney Grade? Whether taking in the sights or enjoying fun activities, there’s something for everyone in Basye!
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Have a Blast at Bryce Resort
At Bryce Resort, you and your family can explore various exciting activities! For thrill-seekers, the resort offers downhill skiing, snowboarding, and a terrain park for jumps and rails. There are also plenty of beginner-friendly slopes for those looking to learn how to ski or snowboard. If you need to get into hitting the slopes, go tubing down the mountain on a fast-paced run! The resort also has an ice skating rink open during the winter months. Other activities include horseback riding, zip lining, mini golfing, water sports, escape rooms and even laser tag! You can also head to the Mtaintop Adventure Center for indoor fun – there are arcades and a ropes course perfect for all ages. With so much to do, Bryce Resort is a one-stop destination for your next family vacation.
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Go Fishing at Lake Laura
Fishing at Lake Laura is a great way to make your trip to Basye, VA, extra special. With its crystal clear waters and abundant fish, you can have a great time for hours! Whether you’re an avid fisherman or just looking to spend the afternoon wetting a line, you’ll find plenty of opportunities here.
The lake is stocked with bass, trout, and sunfish, which makes it easy to find some bites at the end of your line. You don’t even need a boat to get out there either; all types of fishing are permitted from the banks of the lake. If you decide to take a boat out, electric motors can enjoy a peaceful day out on the water without making too much noise.
There’s also a variety of other activities available at Lake Laura, such as swimming, kayaking and even stand-up paddleboarding. For those who want to stay dry while exploring the lake, some trails wind around its perimeter, offering gorgeous views and plenty of opportunities for birdwatching. No matter how you spend your time here, Lake Laura will surely provide an enjoyable experience!
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Enjoy Lakeside Activities at Lake Carroll
At Lake Carroll, you can enjoy various lakeside activities that are perfect for a day of family fun. Relax in the sun and enjoy the breathtaking views with a leisurely pontoon boat ride around the lake. Or, get your heart racing with some wakeboarding or waterskiing. Fishing enthusiasts will appreciate the abundance of fish species, including bass, carp and catfish. Kids will love playing in the sand on the beach or dipping in crystal-clear water. If you’re looking for more active pursuits, take a kayak to explore Lake Carroll’s hidden coves and wildlife-filled islands. With plenty of picnic tables and BBQ grills on the shoreline, you can also have a nice lakeside lunch or dinner during your visit.
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Stroll Through Orkney Springs Trail
Stroll through the Orkney Springs Trail for a peaceful and enjoyable outdoor experience. This scenic one-mile trail winds its way around Lake Laura, taking you past various lovely spots that offer breathtaking views of the lake. You can also see plenty of birds and other creatures along the way.
The trailhead begins just off Route 259 in Orkney Springs and is easy to follow as it meanders between trees, shrubs, and wetland areas. The terrain is primarily flat, with some minor inclines. Two bridges cross two tributaries of Lake Laura, giving you a view of the lake from different angles.
Along your journey, you’ll come across several historical sites like the Old Manse House Museum and the ruins of Stonewall Jackson’s home. In addition to these exciting finds, take time to observe the lush greenery and wildflowers along the path and any wildlife sightings you might be lucky enough to encounter!
At the end of your walk, relax on one of the benches overlooking Lake Laura or find a spot for a picnic lunch if you brought one along for your trip. With its beautiful views, friendly atmosphere, and ample bird-watching or nature photography opportunities, Orkney Springs Trail is worth visiting!
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Cruise Orkney Grade
Cruising along Orkney Grade allows you to experience some of the best scenery in Bryce Valley. This winding hillside drive takes you along a scenic route, offering breathtaking views of the valley and surrounding mountains. You can also spot the historic Orkney Springs Hotel, an essential stop on the Shenandoah Valley Railway.
The cruise is delightful during fall, when the leaves have turned into vibrant shades of yellow and orange. During this time, you can witness an explosion of colors as you traverse through forested hillsides and open meadows.
If you’re looking for something more adventurous, there are plenty of opportunities to explore off-road trails or mountain biking. There are miles upon miles of unpaved roads that lead to hidden creeks, old-growth forests, and remote mountain summits with stunning views.
Be sure to look out for wildlife, as deer and wild turkeys are often seen along Orkney Grade. It’s also an excellent spot for bird watching as many species migrate through this area in the autumn and spring.
For those looking for a slower pace, pull over and enjoy a picnic at one of the many overlooks or stroll down to Orkney Springs Trail, where you can view local flora and fauna up close. No matter what activity you choose, cruising Orkney Grade is sure to be an unforgettable experience!
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Chalet High Activity Center
Chalet High Activity Center is the perfect place for adventure and excitement. With a wide range of activities, it has something to offer everyone. Plenty of outdoor activities include tubing, snowmobiling, horseback riding, skiing and snowboarding. You can also enjoy indoor activities such as rock climbing, laser tag, mini-golf, etc. The center offers something for all ages and experience levels. For example, the tubing hill is designed with several different difficulty levels so that both beginners and experienced riders can have a great time. Additionally, the center offers lessons in skiing and snowboarding so you can brush up on your skills before hitting the slopes. The Chalet High Activity Center is the perfect place for a day of fun and adventure.
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Sip Wine and Enjoy the Vibe at RHouse Wine & Café
RHouse Wine & Café is the perfect spot to relax and enjoy some of Virginia’s best wines. This cozy and inviting restaurant serves various delicious dishes, from artisan pizzas to gourmet burgers, all prepared with locally sourced ingredients. The full bar offers an impressive selection of worldwide wines, including local favorites like the award-winning Bar B Que Red from Glen Manor Vineyards. Enjoy your meal on their beautiful outdoor patio overlooking nearby Lake Laura or in their charming dining room with rustic decor and soft lighting. Beer lovers will appreciate their rotating selection of craft drafts, plus an extensive menu of cocktails for special occasions. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or want a relaxing evening out, RHouse Wine & Café will indeed please!
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Cool Down at Smiley’s
Smiley’s is the perfect spot if you’re looking for a way to cool down after a long day of outdoor activities in Basye, Virginia. Located right off Lake Laura, Smiley’s offers guests a variety of refreshing options. They have it all, whether it’s a cold beer or an icy soda! Please grab one of their famously delicious milkshakes while you’re there!
Smiley’s also has plenty of outdoor seating to relax in the summer sun and admire the picturesque views. If you’re feeling adventurous, grab an inflatable floaty and explore the lake while soaking up the rays! Or, if you’d rather stay dry, sit on one of their many picnic tables and have an afternoon snack.
To top it all off, Smiley’s also has live music on specific days, so you can enjoy your drink while taking in some great tunes. It’s the perfect place to kick back, relax, and soak in Vitamin D!
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Grab Your Food Supplies from the Community Store
If you’re planning a visit to Bryce Resort in Basye, Virginia, remember to add the Community Store to your list of things to do! Located at 918 Orkney Grade Road, it is the perfect destination for stocking up on all your food supplies during your stay.
The store offers an extensive selection of grocery items such as fresh local produce and dairy products, freshly baked bread and pastries, snacks and drinks. There’s something for everyone here, from organic fruits and vegetables to canned goods and bottled beverages. You’ll also find a great variety of prepared meal options like sandwiches and hot entrees that can be ready quickly!
The store also has a wide selection of outdoor gear for those exploring the area. Whether you need camping, fishing equipment, or just some basic supplies, they’ve got you covered. They also have a great selection of apparel and souvenirs, so you can bring home something special to remember your trip by.
The friendly staff at the Community Store are always happy to help you with whatever you need. They are passionate about helping visitors make the most of their time in Basye. They are always willing to advise about the best places to go fishing or hiking or offer tips on what activities might be fun for the whole family. So come down to the Community Store during your next visit—you won’t regret it!
Bryce VA has something for everyone, from skiing and snowboarding to fishing and wine tasting. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing activity or a relaxing day out, Bryce, VA, is the perfect destination to explore and have fun. From the exciting activities offered by Bryce Resort to the breathtaking views of Lake Carroll and Orkney Grade, you can make memories that will last a lifetime. So if you’re looking for a great way to spend your vacation, head over to Bryce, VA!
