answer:Head south, my friend, through the Shenandoah Valley. Here is a schedule of events for that time-frame. As for hiking, there are plenty of places to go that I would consider safe for a lone female. One isHarpers Ferry. ” Another is Natural Chimneys and a third is Natural Bridge. All three offer sites, so the amount of time spent at any of them is up to you. I-81 is well marked with tourist attraction sites for history, wineries, antiques, etc. It’s only a matter of taking an exit to discover them. From Roanoke to the Tennessee border, it’s a bit boring in my opinion, although still a pretty drive. Once into TN, it might be worth heading to Gatlinburg. I’ve only been there once, but so many people rave about its beauty that it holds a curiosity. Heading east would put you into North Carolina. I would aim for Ashville, home of the famous Biltmore hotel. Keep heading east, and you’ll hit I-95, which will take you back north towards home. Personally, I’d keep the trip to tooling around southern Va. and spend more quality time visiting the historical, artistic and quirky sites that the state has to offer. If this is the path you decide to take, let me know. I can provide some more tips that might be of interest.