Discovering Virginia’s Picturesque Mountain Towns

The Appalachian Mountains stretch for hundreds of miles through Virginia, from the highlands near Cumberland Gap in the southwest up the Blue Ridge all the way to Maryland.

Tucked away among these regal ridges and deep valleys lie Virginia’s mountain towns. The citizens of these settlements are lucky enough to dwell amidst scenery where peaks cloaked in green forests rise to frame the place they call home, places where clear rivers and streams run free and hiking trails explore the back of beyond. While we all can’t live in a Virginia mountain town, we can always visit them, and enjoy some of the perks that go with living in such beautiful places.

In Virginia’s mountain towns, you can find places to eat, places to lodge, places to resupply and of course, a multitude of outdoor activities. Read on and discover your Virginia mountain town, where you can relax, unwind, and embrace outdoor adventures.

BIG STONE GAP

Made famous by the book series and film of the same name, the real-life town of Big Stone Gap sits in splendor by the Powell River encircled by mountains of far Southwest Virginia. The downtown has attractions within walking distance to one another, from the Southwest Virginia Museum to the Meador Coal Museum, detailing the intertwined nature of coal and the people who call Big Stone Gap home.

Outdoor Adventure in Big Stone Gap

Outdoor pursuits are plentiful near Big Stone Gap. Stone Mountain rises above the town and the Powell Valley Overlook offers a scenic panorama of the Heart of Appalachia's mountain splendor. The overlook is quite possibly the most photographed vista in the region, making it a must-see for visitors. Drive up to High Knob Observation Tower, where you can see five states. From there, hike the Chief Benge Scout Trail, a nearly 20-mile track. Sections of the path conveniently start at the highland impoundments of High Knob Lake and Bark Camp Lake. See the waterfalls and chilly swimming holes of the Devil's Bathtub.

View another geological wonder at Natural Tunnel State Park. Bicyclists can pedal the 5-mile one way Guest River Trail, a rail trail with “gorge-ous” scenery. Anglers like to float and fish the Powell River. A day-long float starts in downtown Big Stone Gap at Bullitt Park and meanders 12 miles to a takeout at Dryden off US 58.

Food & Entertainment in Big Stone Gap

Big Stone Gap has a number of restaurants to choose from, including Big Cherry Brewing Company, GoodTimes Coal-Fired Pizza and Pub, Moon Dog Brick Oven, and Curklin's.

For some more outdoor recreation, play a round of disc golf at the town's two courses, the 9-hole Duck Park Disc Golf course and The Ridge, an 18-hole course. Big Cherry Lake is a magnificent mountain basin where visitors can fish, kayak, and hike.

A National Historic Landmark, the Southwest Virginia Museum State Park features an 1890s Victorian stone mansion and a collection of historic artifacts that includes more than 60,000 pieces. The museum's exhibits tell the story of the exploration and development of Southwest Virginia, from the pioneer era of the 1700s to the mining "boom and bust" era of the late 1800s. 

DAMASCUS

Literally enveloped in mountain fastness, Damascus is known as Trail Town USA since so many trails intersect there, notably the Appalachian Trail and the Virginia Creeper Trail. You can kayak and fish for trout in the streams flowing amidst the berg.

Outdoor Adventure in Damascus

The Virginia Creeper Trail is the biggest draw. Outfitters will rent you a bicycle, drive you to Whitetop Station, then you can coast/pedal your way down 17 miles through a mix of forests and small communities, with plenty of views and streams along the former railroad bed. Alternatively, you can pedal the Virginia Creeper Trail west toward Abingdon and back without a shuttle. Hiking is a huge draw here, too. Head to the Mount Rogers National Recreation Area for a taste of mile high mountains, wild ponies, and Virginia’s highest point. Fish Whitetop Laurel or Beaverdam Creeks, then walk back to your place of lodging.

Food & Entertainment in Damascus

Damascus is home to iconic Mount Rogers Outfitters, a camping store located in the heart of Damascus. The AT goes directly past the store. It’s a rite of passage for thru hikers to stop in and say hi to owner and Damascus native Jeff Patrick.

GALAX

If you like mountain music and mountain recreation, the mountain town of Galax is for you. Located at the nexus of water trails, rail trails, and hiking trails, Galax presents an array of Virginia outdoor recreation at its finest, with some old time fiddle and bluegrass as background music.

Outdoor Adventure in Galax

Galax is one terminus of the 50 mile+ New River Trail, a rail trail that follows Virginia’s fabled New River. A boon for bicyclists, the trail follows a rural setting from Galax, first along Chestnut Creek, where you can find Chestnut Creek Falls, then along the New River. Visit the Shot Tower and the preserved buildings of nearby Foster Falls, where Virginia’s history comes alive. Float the New from Austinville to Foster Falls. Gentle rapids and bucolic scenery make it a hit with everybody.

Take a scenic drive on US 58 to Grayson Highlands State Park, where you can see the wild ponies on the meadows and mountains. Trails, picnicking, and camping are also found here. Take a drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway to visit one of the most photographed spots on the parkway, Mabry Mill.

Food & Entertainment in Galax

You have to come for the mountain music, too. The town has been holding the Old Fiddler's Convention since 1935. It is on this foundation that music here has thrived. The historic Rex Theater in town hosts many music events. The Blue Ridge Music Center, located on the Blue Ridge Parkway just 12 miles distant, has shows throughout the warm season.

PEARISBURG

Come see the town where the lower New River and the Appalachian Trail cross paths under the mantle of Peters Mountain. Blessed with both river and mountain recreation held fast against the West Virginia border, Pearisburg makes for a great mountain getaway. Walk the historic streets where brick buildings take you to another time. Visit the Andrew Johnston House, an antebellum home on which grounds the Giles County Historical Society can also be found. Giles County is home to 37 miles of the New River and 50 miles of the Appalachian Trail, delivering expected high level Virginia mountain scenery.

Outdoor Adventure in Pearisburg

An official Appalachian Trail community, from Pearisburg you can walk the world’s most famous footpath from town up to Angel's Rest, revealing a worthy panorama of the enveloping New River Valley. While up on Pearis Mountain, walk a bit further to Wilburn Valley Overlook, lording over rural Virginia hinterlands. Hike to incredible and large Cascade Falls in nearby Pembroke.

The New River beckons, too. Canoe, kayak, or raft a section of the sometimes brawling, always beautiful waterway, featuring calm stretches mixed with mostly Class II rapids. Outfitters are nearby and there to serve you with boat rental and shuttle service. The New is also a nationally recognized smallmouth bass fishery. 

Food & Entertainment in Pearisburg

Stay at The Lilly Valley Inn, which has rooms overlooking the New River. The owners take pride in their facility and your panoramas extend to a deck where the serenity of the surroundings works magic.

ROANOKE

You might call this a mountain city rather than town, but regardless of size, Roanoke is deep in the Appalachians with a host of cultural and outdoor activities within easy access. Mill Mountain, where the iconic Roanoke Star stands, is the symbol of this city on the banks of the Roanoke River and flanked by the Blue Ridge to the east and a mass of mountains to the west.

Outdoor Adventure in Roanoke

Outdoor activities run the gamut. You can drive the Blue Ridge Parkway, all the while picnicking, walking, and photographing Virginia’s terrain. Mountain bikers have a wealth of trails in the wooded valley of Carvins Cove, where a reservoir also opens up paddling opportunities on a mountain-rimmed lake. Canoes and kayaks can be rented on site. Paddlers can also ply the Roanoke River through nearby Salem, site of not only fun river floating but also a greenway for casual bicyclers and walkers.

Area hiking is superlative. Some of the most notable sights on the entire 2,200-mile Appalachian Trail are nearby — the climb to the Dragon's Tooth, the panoramas of McAfee Knob, and distant vistas at Tinker Cliffs. Other hiking destination avail solitude, waterfalls, and historic sights, namely Roaring Run Falls & Furnace, Audie Murphy Monument, and Fenwick Mines Walk.

Food & Entertainment in Roanoke

It is almost mandatory for visitors to drive up to Mill Mountain, see the Roanoke Star, then take in the view of downtown Roanoke and the mountains beyond. While in the Star City, fuel up at the iconic Texas Tavern or cheers to your adventure at Big Lick Brewing Company. Head to the Explore Park for more fun including a treetop ropes course and disc golf. 

WARM SPRINGS & HOT SPRINGS

Their names give away the most notable features of these mountain towns tucked away in Bath County, less than five miles distant from one another. At Warm Springs, you can still come to immerse in the mineral-rich 98-degree water where Thomas Jefferson himself soaked. Hot Springs, just a few miles away, adds to the possibilities. Cultural and outdoor pursuits enhance the allure of the warm waters.

Outdoor Adventure in Warm Springs & Hot Springs

Outdoor pursuits certainly include visiting mountain-rimmed Lake Moomaw. Located in the nearby Washington National Forest, the impoundment offers seasonal beauty where you can hike and camp along its shores, or perhaps paddle a kayak amid the montane splendor. Go trout fishing up Back Creek near Blowing Springs Recreation Area. Float the Jackson River for some moving water action. Admire waterfalls and commanding views at Douthat State Park. Don’t forget to enjoy the roadside view of Falling Spring Falls.

Food & Entertainment in Warm Springs and Hot Springs

Warm Springs and Hot Springs are smallish, but cater to visitors. Both towns have historic resorts centered on the heated waters that bubble up from the ground. The Omni Homestead Resort delivers a classic formal air for dining, as well as more casual options, and first class overnighting. Dine at the Waterwheel Restaurant for historic flair, where you eat inside an old mill, a Virginia Historic Landmark. Shoppers will be excited to see the wealth of opportunities to hunt for antiques in such a historic place as Bath County.

LEXINGTON & BUENA VISTA

Known for its historic character, many visitors come to Lexington for its Civil War legacy, but Lexington also has an outdoorsy side, which is only natural since it is close to Virginia’s famed Natural Bridge.

Situated on the banks of the Maury River, Buena Vista is excellent for aquatic and land recreation, all in one package. Waterfall enthusiasts will find Buena Vista an ideal base camp. It is also a good place for those looking for an understated, down-home, rural Virginia atmosphere.

Outdoor Adventure in Lexington & Buena Vista

The Chessie Nature Trail is a rail trail popular with bicyclers and hikers. Conveniently, the trail links Lexington and Buena Vista along the banks of the Maury River.

The Blue Ridge Parkway is a logical option, especially since it runs the mountains just above Buena Vista. Jump on the Parkway southbound for a scenic ride to the visitor center on the James River. Northbound windshield visitors will enjoy views aplenty and hiking opportunities.

Speaking of hiking, the nearby Appalachian Trail presents excellent walks. Head south into Brown Mountain Creek to find historic homesteads. To the north stands Mount Pleasant Scenic Area with meadows and eye-popping vistas. Waterfall lovers can drive to Statons Creek Falls or make a short walk to Panther Falls. Enjoy Saint Marys Falls, rambling through wilderness on the way. Nearby Crabtree Falls lays claims to being Virginia’s highest cataract.

Whitewater enthusiasts can ply the Maury River, which flows through both Lexington and Buena Vista. The Maury presents paddles of varied difficulties, as well as smallmouth bass and trout fishing. Numerous access points make this river more viable. The nearby James River avails additional paddling opportunities with a year-round paddling season.

Food & Entertainment in Lexington & Buena Vista

Enjoy a brew and a slice of pizza at Heliotrope Brewery in Lexington, or check out Haywood's for a more elevated dining experience. The restaurant is a fresh cafe during the day and transforms into a piano bar in the evenings. 

WAYNESBORO

Well-located where the south end of Shenandoah National Park meets the Blue Ridge Parkway, Waynesboro is a prime mountain road trip destination. Visitors driving can easily access 105 miles of Shenandoah’s Skyline Drive scenic motorway, or head south and tool along 216 miles of Virginia Blue Ridge Parkway.

Outdoor Adventure in Waynesboro

Stops, overlooks, and activities along Skyline Drive and the Blue Ridge Parkway will keep a nature lover busy. In Shenandoah National Park you can stop for a short walk to the overlook atop Turk Mountain. See the huge rock scree slopes on a simple trek to Blackrock Mountain. Bag multiple waterfalls on Doyles River and Jones Run from Browns Gap. Have a meal at Dundo picnic area. Pitch your tent at Loft Mountain Campground.

Heading south from Waynesboro for five miles on the Blue Ridge Parkway, you can stop at Humpback Rocks visitor center and get oriented. While there, visit the collection of historic buildings and the Carter Hall Farm. Hike up to Humpback Rocks for a well-earned view and enjoy a picnic. Continuing south, you can stop by Sherando Lake, with its campground, fishing, and extensive trail network. Hike the Appalachian Trail through the Three Ridges Wilderness or The Priest Wilderness.

The South River runs through Waynesboro and is a true urban fishery. Float a kayak or canoe for four miles through town on the Waynesboro Water Trail. 

Food & Entertainment in Waynesboro

Interested in local wine? Waynesboro is good for that. Several wineries are located with a dozen miles of Waynesboro, among them Veritas Vineyard and Winery, Afton Mountain Vineyards, and Cardinal Point Winery.

LURAY

Luray is not only great for exploring the Shenandoah National Park, but also for outdoor recreation opportunities on nearby Massanutten Mountain and the storied South Fork Shenandoah River. An underground adventure at Luray Caverns caps off a visit to this mountain town.

Outdoor Adventure in Luray

Tour Shenandoah National Park, a Virginia treasure. Tool along Skyline Drive, stopping at viewpoints and hiking to others, such as Hawksbill, the highest point in Shenandoah with 360-degree panoramas. My favorite vista in the entire park, Mary's Rock, presents a stellar view overlooking Luray and the Shenandoah Valley as well as Massanutten Mountain. Stop at Big Meadows and enjoy the informative visitor center. Two lodges within the national park make convenient overnighting for the Shenandoah National Park enthusiast.

Paddle and fish the South Fork Shenandoah River. The river is doable by novice paddlers in kayaks or canoes, even tubers. Massanutten Mountain flanks the west side of Luray and avails additional remote hiking and mountain biking trails. Check out historic Camp Roosevelt, the very first Civilian Conservation Corps Camp in the nation.

Food & Entertainment in Luray

Luray Caverns is a must visit. The attraction has expanded beyond the fascinating underground cave stalactites and stalagmites to aboveground garden maze, ropes adventure park, and various museums. Eat in the Historic District at Chop House Bistro or grab a bite at Gathering Grounds Patisserie & Cafe.

HARRISONBURG

Harrisonburg lies within easy striking distance of three major ranges, the Blue Ridge and Shenandoah National park to the east, Massanutten Mountain to the north, and Alleghenies of the Washington National Forest to the west. Those three destinations add up to a plethora of outdoor possibilities.

Outdoor Adventure in Harrisonburg

Shenandoah National Park is 20 miles to the east. Explore the South District and Central District of the preserve with ease. Head north from Swift Run Gap on Skyline Drive in the park, stopping to view South River Falls and enjoy its fine picnic area. Have a ball taking on the Bearfence Mountain Rock Scramble, which sounds tougher than it is, though you do use all fours. Heading south from Swift Run Gap, hike to Hightop and grab more views. Take the Rocky Mount Trail for panoramas from geological rock upthrusts. 

Harrisonburg calls itself the cycling capital of the Shenandoah Valley, and they mean it. This includes road cycling, mountain biking, and casual bicycling. Casual bicyclers have a host of paved trails in town, especially in the James Madison University campus area, Edith J. Carrier Arboretum and Botanical Garden, and Purcell Park. In town, mountain bikers have the Rocktown Trails at Hillandale Park. Massanutten Mountain Bike Park has mountain biking trails for all abilities. A lift makes downhill bicycling a blast.

West of town, George Washington National Forest presents plenty of mountain recreation. Fish, camp, and hike at Todd Lake, North River or Hone Quarry campgrounds. Todd Lake and Elkhorn Lake also offer scenic stillwater paddling, with mountains rising in the background. Both short nature trails and longer paths wander through these highlands perched against the West Virginia border.

Food & Entertainment in Harrisonburg

Harrisonburg has an interesting mix of forces shaping it — hundreds of years of agriculture in the Shenandoah Valley, college influence from James Madison University and Eastern Mennonite University, Civil War history, and mountain lifeways. A reflection of this influence is the abundance of breweries, cideries, and vineyards in the area as well as delicious eateries. Try a few local establishments on the Shenadoah Beerwerks Trail or the Shenandoah Valley Wine Trail.

STRASBURG

Strasburg is another historic town — perhaps that is part of it being the antique capital of Virginia. The town is a quick jumping off point for outdoor recreation in the adjacent Washington National Forest as well as the north end of Shenandoah National Park. The North Fork Shenandoah River flows through Strasburg and adds more outdoor opportunities.

Outdoor Adventure in Strasburg

Elizabeth Furnace is just a few miles distant. Visit the recreation area centered around a former iron furnace located on Passage Creek, a fine trout stream that also happens to have a highly recommended campground along it. Hikers, equestrians and mountain bikers can explore the trail network at Elizabeth Furnace. The paths range high and low along the slopes above passage Creek.

Visit Shenandoah National Park from the north entrance. Stop at Dickey Ridge Visitor Center to get oriented, then visit the Fox Farm for a taste of yesteryear Virginia rural lifeways. Walk to the top of Compton Peak, surveying the domain below. Or just make a relaxing trip on Skyline Drive, one of the world’s first scenic motorways.

The North Fork Shenandoah River presents river floating. Outfitters are situated in town to help you accomplish the goal.

Food & Entertainment in Strasburg

Since Strasburg is the antique capital of Virginia, perusing for them comes natural. Visit the Strasburg Emporium, a true treasure trove of antiques under one roof, as well as numerous other shops in town.

WINCHESTER

Visit Winchester for nearby Virginia history as well as a variety of outdoor recreation opportunities. Located at the northern end of the Shenandoah Valley, visitors to Winchester traditionally explore Civil War history here, as it figures prominently into Winchester’s character. Manor houses, plantations, and museums can be toured, too. However, the nearby proximity of Shenandoah National Park, the Shenandoah River and other outdoor venues add another component to any Winchester excursion.

Outdoor Adventure in Winchester

Both the Appalachian Trail and the lower Shenandoah River provide adventure travel corridors for visitors to Winchester.

The Appalachian Trail north of Shenandoah National Park gives hikers great opportunity for solitude. Here, you can enjoy 50 more miles of the AT in Virginia. Elevations are generally lower than Shenandoah National Park, and the section has numerous trail shelters. A neat option is to hike the AT as it passes through Sky Meadows State Park. There, you can incorporate additional state park trails with the Appalachian Trail to form loops.

You can pick up Skyline Drive at the northern end of Shenandoah National Park and tour the park with attractions located off Skyline Drive, including 100 or so more miles of the AT, plus connector trails exploring waterfalls, pioneer cabins and more.

This lower section of the Shenandoah River near Winchester is a good paddling choice, since it is below the confluence of the North Fork and South Fork Shenandoah Rivers, thus has adequate water year-round. Outfitters are conveniently located in nearby Front Royal. Tackle Class I and II rapids in a kayak, canoe, or even inner tube. Watermelon Park near Berryville is a good access for paddlers.

The Green Circle Trail is a linear trail for walkers, joggers, and bicyclists that loops around the city. 

Food & Entertainment in Winchester

Music lovers have the unique opportunity to check out the home and museum of country music legend Patsy Cline. Take a 45-minute tour of the Patsy Cline Historic House, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.