Landscape Events, Design

January 11, 2013

Cleveland Landscaping Experts Highlight Shenandoah Valley

Landscaep Design Shenandoah Valley WaterfallCleveland landscaping experts will put their skills and ideas on display at this year's Great Big Home and Garden Show, which runs from February 2nd through February 10th. Our own 2013 Garden Showcase will feature the Shenandoah Valley.

The Shenandoah Valley is an extraordinary area. Named for the river that stretches the length of the region, the Shenandoah Valley spans nine counties in Virginia and two counties in West Virginia. The Blue Ridge Mountains form the Valley's eastern boundary, and Ridge-and-Valley Appalachians form the western boundary. What makes the Shenandoah Valley so extraordinary?

Caverns and Rock Formations
Much of the Valley sits on limestone formations, which are honeycombed with caves. Visitors can explore expansive underground trails year round. Even in the heat of summer, the underground caverns remain at a cool 54 degrees. Above ground, the Natural Bridge of Virginia is a rock formation that stands 30 stories high. 

Rivers
In addition to the Shenandoah River, the region is also touched by the Potomac River and the James River. These rivers not only add to the beauty of the region, but they also provide endless summer entertainment. With its flat and beginner whitewater, the Shenandoah River is perfect for canoeing, kayaking, tubing, and river rafting. Visitors can stay in river log cabins or tent campgrounds as they explore the beautiful rivers.

Gardens
As Cleveland landscaping experts, we can't help but admire the many beautiful gardens in the Shenandoah Valley. If you're a fan of local flora, don't miss the State Arboretum of Virginia, which consists of 170 acres of native trees and shrubs. You can drive through the arboretum, or you can take a leisurely walk, stopping for workshops, lectures, and special events. Other notable gardens in the Shenandoah Valley include the Museum of the Shenandoah Valley, the P. Buckley Moss Museum, White Oak Lavender Farm, and the Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library and Museum.

Historical Sites
You can't visit the Shenandoah Valley without visiting some of its historical site. The breadbasket of the Confederacy, the region was an important location during the Civil War, and many of its historical sites have been beautifully preserved. For instance, the Highland County Museum is located in one of the oldest buildings in the region. The Civil War Orientation Center gives visitors an overview of the Civil War experience through interactive touch screens.

Outdoor Activities
All four seasons are beautiful in the Shenandoah Valley, so visitors can enjoy the great outdoors all year long. When it's cold, visit Bryce Ski Resort or Massanutten Ski Resort. In the spring, try fishing and more advanced river rafting. In the summer, you'll find people horseback riding, hiking, biking, camping, and tubing down the river. In the fall, take scenic hikes or drives through the valley as the leaves change. 

Wildlife
The Shenandoah Valley offers visitors many ways to watch wildlife. If you prefer a surefire way to view wildlife, visit the Natural Bridge Zoo or go on safari at Virginia's Safari Park, a 180-acre drive-through featuring 1,000 free-roaming animals. The Luray Zoo is a rescue zoo, which houses retired zoo animals, confiscated animals, and unwanted and abused pets. If you want to see animals in their natural habitats, keep your eyes open while you visit the Natural Bridge of Virginia and Shenandoah National Park, where bears, bobcats, and butterflies are spotted regularly.

You can see why your Cleveland landscaping experts were so inspired by this region of our country. Come get a taste of the Shenandoah Valley at our 2013 Garden Showcase at the Great Big Home and Garden Show. We hope to see you there!

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