Sitting pretty at Mile Marker 0 of the Blue Ridge Parkway, Waynesboro, Virginia, is the beginning of your outdoor adventure with jaw-dropping mountain views. We’re pretty pumped to share that Waynesboro snagged top honors and some major shoutouts in Blue Ridge Outdoors Magazine’s ‘Best of the Blue Ridge’ awards. Ready to see why everyone’s talking about Waynesboro lately? Let’s go!
WINNERS
South River: Best Fishing Spot
Waynesboro’s South River has hooked the winning spot in this category. Flowing right through downtown, this urban trout fishery is a dream for anglers. It offers pristine waters stocked with trophy-sized rainbows and browns. Seasoned fly fishers love this place and amateurs can learn with lessons and guided tours with South River Fly Shop. Whatever your skill level, the South River promises an unforgettable day on the water. Bonus: it’s surrounded by Waynesboro’s charming downtown, so you can swap fish tales over a great meal or local brew when the day’s done!
The Blue Ridge Parkway: Best Public Lands
It’s no surprise the Blue Ridge Parkway snagged the title of Best Public Lands in Blue Ridge Outdoors Magazine’s ‘Best of the Blue Ridge’ awards—this iconic stretch of road is pure magic. And guess what? Waynesboro is Mile Marker 0, making it the perfect starting point for your Parkway adventure. You can take a quick drive for jaw-dropping views, hike to hidden waterfalls, or just snap some pics to make your followers jealous, just in the first five miles of your trip. So pack your sense of adventure (and maybe some snacks) and hit the road—it all starts right here in Waynesboro!
Tour de Valley: Best Bike Race
Cyclists, grab your helmets and get ready for the ride of your life at Tour de Valley, Augusta County Cycling Club’s signature cycling event that winds through Waynesboro and the scenic Shenandoah Valley. You can tackle the 100-mile Century Ride or opt for the Metric Century, 40 miler, or 25 miler depending on your skill level. This event combines challenging climbs, sweeping mountain views, and camaraderie at every turn. Tour de Valley isn’t just a race—it’s an unforgettable experience for riders of all levels.
Runners-Up
Run the Valley: Best Running Event
Run the Valley, runner-up for Best Running Event, is a popular four-race series in Waynesboro featuring a half marathon and the famous Mad Anthony Mud Run, a fun 3.5 mile course that traverses across fields and wetlands, over obstacles, and through tunnels. Participate in all four events for a complete set of medals!
South River Fly Shop South River: Best Fly Fishing Outfitter
If you’re looking to reel in the big one (or at least a good story), South River Fly Shop is the place to start. Crowned Runner Up: Best Fly Fishing Outfitter in Blue Ridge Outdoors Magazine’s ‘Best of the Blue Ridge’ awards, this downtown Waynesboro shop is the ultimate HQ for all things fly fishing. It doesn’t matter if you’re a pro angler or can’t tell a fly from a worm, their friendly team will hook you up with gear, tips, and local secrets to make your day on the South River unforgettable. Stop in, gear up, and get ready to fish like a champ!
Blue Ridge Tunnel: Best Pet-friendly Adventure
The Blue Ridge Tunnel, a historic marvel turned pet-friendly adventure destination, claimed the top spot in this category. Offering a blend of history and scenic exploration, this tunnel is a haven for pet owners and their furry companions seeking an immersive outdoor experience.
Waynesboro’s big wins in the Best of the Blue Ridge awards are proof that this little city knows how to bring the fun. Chasing thrills on the trails, fishing in crystal-clear waters, digging into farm-fresh eats, or running a race with killer mountain views, Waynesboro’s got something for everyone. Waynesboro is the perfect mix of outdoor adventure and small-town charm.
