places to visit in southwestern virginia

The 15 Best Things to Do in SWVA (Southwest Virginia)

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Virginia is a phenomenal state to explore for anyone who appreciates the wilderness, as well as those who enjoy delving into US history and Appalachian culture .

Top-flight sightseeing in VA is never far away, and the list of things to do in Virginia seems limitless.

Virginia is home to the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests, Shenandoah National Park, the Blue Ridge Parkway , Skyline Drive, and an award-winning system of state parks with 41 different sites and over 500 miles of hiking trails.

The map of Southwest Virginia stretches from around Roanoke west to the Kentucky and Tennessee borders, tucking nicely underneath West Virginia.

This corner of the state is the perfect place for exploring the Blue Ridge Mountains, as well as Virginia’s best lakes, wildest forests, and most interesting mountain towns .

Rather than trying to tackle the whole of sightseeing in Virginia in one fell swoop, we’ve decided to focus on the best things to do in Southwest VA (or SWVA, as it is widely known).

Read on for our in-depth guide to the must-see attractions and must-do activities in the area.

READ MORE:  The 15 Best Things to Do in Roanoke VA

Things to Do in SWVA (Southwest Virginia) Guide

• Abingdon VA
• Appalachian Trail
• The Birthplace of Country Music Museum
• Blue Ridge Parkway
• Breaks Interstate Park
• The Crooked Road: Virginia’s Heritage Music Trail
• Grayson Highlands State Park
• Hungry Mother Lake
• Mount Rogers Scenic Byway
• Natural Tunnel
• New River Water Trail
• Virginia Creeper Trail
• Virginia Vineyards

1. Abingdon VA

Abingdon VA has deep roots in US history. The Southwest Virginia town  (population 8.376) dates back to the mid-1700s, when the area was known as Black’s Fort.

Daniel Boone passed through this area on his way west, and of course it was home to Native Americans  long before that.

The Abingdon Historic District encompasses some 20 blocks, with nearly every building listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The town includes sites from both the Revolutionary War and Civil War , including the Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail and the Abingdon Muster Grounds.

Other must-see landmarks on the list of things to do in Abingdon VA include the Barter Theater, Virginia Creeper Trail, Martha Washington Inn & Spa, and Abingdon LOVEworks.

READ MORE:  The 10 Best Things to Do in Luray VA (Gateway to Shenandoah)

2. Appalachian Trail

Virginia has more miles of the  Appalachian Trail than any other state.

Over 530 miles of the AT (nearly a quarter of it) are in Virginia , with another 25 miles stretching along the border between SWVA and West Virginia.

So it should come as no surprise that some of the best spots along the Appalachian Trail can be found in Southwest Virginia, including the section that climbs Virginia’s tallest mountain, Mount Rogers.

One of the most popular spots along the entire Appalachian Trail is the McAfee Knob Hike , which is near Roanoke, the largest city in the Blue Ridge region.

The trek can be done as an  Appalachian Trail day hike , with sunrise being the optimal time to tackle it.

McAfee Knob is also part of a trio of famous peaks, which are collectively referred to as the Triple Crown .

READ MORE:  The 10 Best Things to Do in Waynesboro VA (Augusta County)

3. Birthplace of Country Music Museum

Located in Bristol VA, the Birthplace of Country Music Museum is affiliated with the Smithsonian Institute. It’s an homage to the 1927 Bristol Sessions, which created a country music boom.

Permanent exhibits tell the history of the 1927 Bristol Sessions (which included the first recordings of future country legends Jimmie Rodgers and the Carter Family) and the inner-workings of Radio Bristol.

There’s also a temporary exhibit space that covers a wide range of topics, including Appalachian culture, science, and regional  arts and crafts .

The Birthplace of Country Music Museum plays host to numerous events and festivals throughout the year, but the most famous is the Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion. 

The live music venue (which boasts 20 outdoor stages) attracts huge talent, including artists such as Old Crow Medicine Show, Steve Earle & the Dukes, Buddy Guy, Bela Fleck , and Lucinda Williams.

READ MORE:  Apple Picking in Virginia: The 15 Best VA Apple Orchards to Visit

4. Blue Ridge Parkway

The world-famous Blue Ridge Parkway is divided relatively equally between  North Carolina and Virginia.

It connects Shenandoah National Park in northwestern Virginia with Great Smoky Mountains National Park in southwestern North Carolina.

On its 469-mile journey, the BRP runs right through SWVA, passing by some of the best tourist attractions in the region.

Of course, the Parkway itself has always been a premier tourist attraction, and in fact it is the #1 most visited unit of the US National Park Service.

The section of the BRP between Roanoke and the VA/NC border is known as the Plateau Region.

It’s a great drive that can include tastings at local wineries , visits to cultural and historical museums, stays at family-friendly  campgrounds , and spectacular vistas of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

READ MORE:  The 20 Best Blue Ridge Parkway Overlooks in NC & VA

5. Breaks Interstate Park

One of only two “interstate” parks in the nation, Breaks Interstate Park straddles the state boundary between Kentucky and Virginia .

The park loosely belongs to both states’ park systems, but it also operates as an entity with its own regulations.

The park is named for a disruption in the Pine Mountain ridge line, an otherwise continuous ridge that spans through Virginia, Kentucky, and Tennessee .

Once hunting grounds of the Shawnee and Cherokee , this pass was famously “discovered” by Daniel Boone, who gave it the name “The Breaks.”

The park has amazing geology, a gorg e that has been deemed “the Grand Canyon of the South,” and lots of amenities, including water parks, boat rentals, cabins , a campground, etc.

There are also biking, horseback riding, and hiking trails , as well as a couple of lakes and streams.

READ MORE:  The 10 Best Virginia State Parks in the Blue Ridge Mountains

6. The Crooked Road: Virginia’s Heritage Music Trail

The Crooked Road is a 330-mile journey through Southwest Virginia, with a particular focus on the traditional music of the region.

The journey includes several noteworthy historic sites , museums, and operating music venues.

The most popular spots on Virginia’s Heritage Music Trail include the Birthplace of Country Music Museum in Bristol VA, the Blue Ridge Music Center on the Blue Ridge Parkway, the Carter Family Fold (part of the Carter Family Memorial Music Center), and the Floyd Country Store in Floyd VA.

Appalachia is known for its deep musical roots, particularly in the Blue Ridge Mountains of SWVA and North Carolina , which can largely be traced back to Scots-Irish origins.

For fans,  The Crooked Road offers days of musical bliss. For newbies, it’s a great glimpse into the soulful heart of the region.

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7. Floyd VA

A progressive, hippyfied town with a country feel, Floyd VA has become one of our favorite places to visit in Southwestern Virginia.

It has all the natural beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains surrounding it, and a good slice of traditional SWVA culture at its heart.

The Floyd Country Store is a favorite place for shopping and catching some local music, while the 5 Mile Mountain Distillery is fun for those interested in moonshine.

County Sales—which offers a huge selection of bluegrass and old-time music—is the place to get the soundtrack to go along with it. The small town of around 700 residents also has a great farmer’s market.

Floyd is located less than an hour from Roanoke, Blacksburg, and Christiansburg, as well as the Rocky Knob Recreation Area and Fairy Stone State Park.

The Blue Ridge Music Center is an hour away, and the trip to it puts travelers on the Blue Ridge Parkway.

READ MORE:  The 8 Best Breweries in Roanoke VA, the Heart of Virginia’s Blue Ridge

8. Grayson Highlands State Park

Grayson Highlands State Park is famed for its high-altitude meadows, which offer up stunning views of Virginia’s highest mountains , Mount Rogers and Whitetop Mountain.

The park was originally called Mount Rogers State Park, and it still offers access to trails for climbing it.

Grayson Highlands Park has a couple of nice campgrounds , one of which is reserved for equestrian enthusiasts (and their animals).

Massie Gap, which is at the center of the park, is a great spot for spreading out a blanket. The trails from it offer chances to see the famed “wild ponies” of Grayson Highlands.

The top hiking trails explore the park’s two highest points (Twin Pinnacles Trail), stunning waterfalls (Wilson Creek Trail, Cabin Creek Trail), and highland meadows (Rhododendron Trail).

The park also features a great visitor’s center and a huge picnic area.

READ MORE:  Camping and Hiking in Grayson Highlands State Park, VA

9. Hungry Mother Lake

Hungry Mother Lake is a 108-acre reservoir at the center of Hungry Mother Lake State Park , which has nearby campgrounds and cabins for rent as well as great hiking trails .

The lake is open to fishing (with a valid Virginia fishing license), and is home to crappie, carp, bluegill, and several species of bass.

Channel cats, hybrid striped bass, walleye, and muskies are stocked annually. Non-gasoline-powered boats are permitted on the lake, and there’s also good shore fishing to be had.

Canoes, kayaks, paddleboats, and paddleboards are available to rent near the visitor’s center and main entrance.

There’s also a swimming area with a sandy beach and diving platform, the 5.7-mile Lake Trail Loop, and picnic shelters dotting the shoreline.

READ MORE: The 15 Best Lakes in the Virginia Mountains to Visit

10. Mount Rogers Scenic Byway

Swerving and curving through Jefferson National Forest, the Mount Rogers Scenic Byway offers 45 miles of picturesque roads that weave through the Southwest Virginia highlands.

The byway cuts right through the Mount Rogers National Recreation Area.

The first section of the byway uses Virginia Highway 603, stretching from Troutdale to Konnarock.

The section passes the Mt. Rogers and Appalachian Trail Loop and the  Blue Ridge Discovery Center . There are also two equestrian campsites, with one at each end.

The second section of the byway takes US-58 from Damascus, doubling back towards Konnarock, and on to Volney.

This section passes Green Cove Station, Grayson Highlands State Park, and the Grayson Highlands General Store & Inn. It’s a picturesque way to explore the region, especially when fall colors begin to peak! 

READ MORE: The 10 Hiking Essentials Packing List for the Blue Ridge Mountains  

11. Natural Tunnel State Park

The formation of Virginia’s Natural Tunnel began over a million years ago, with acidic groundwater seeping into rock crevices and dissolving limestone and dolomite.

Then, Stock Creek was diverted underground to continue the work. The tunnel is now 10 stories high and 850 feet long.

Though it was naturally formed, the tunnel has had a railway running through it for over a century. It first began being considered for a train route back in the 1850s.

In 1890, the South Atlantic & Ohio Railroad opened a line through it. The route has changed hands several times in the last 130+ years, but trains still pass through it today.

Visiting Natural Tunnel State Park is one of the most exciting things to do in Virginia for kids.There are cool train exhibits, as well as a chair lift to carry visitors down to and back from the tunnel.

The park also has campgrounds, a pool, old cabins , and a spot where Daniel Boone once stayed.

READ MORE:  Camping and Hiking in Natural Bridge State Park, VA

12. New River Water Trail

The New River is one of America’s Heritage Rivers, and it is widely considered to be the second oldest river in the world.

Its headwaters begin near Blowing Rock, North Carolina , and from there it flows northward through Virginia and West Virginia.

In Virginia, the New River Trail State Park is a 57-mile linear park that stretches from Galax past Dora Junction, with 39 miles along the New River itself.

The New River Water Trail starts just south of Giles County and goes to the West Virginia border, traversing the Jefferson National Forest.

The New River Water Trail has several boat landings for getting in and out of the river, as well as opportunities for hiking , biking, fishing, and camping.

Along the route, travelers can see the Palisades Cliffs, Whit Riverbend Park, Bluff City, Camp Success, the Appalachian Trail, and Glen Lyn Town Park.

READ MORE: The Best Restaurants in Lexington and Natural Bridge VA

13. Roanoke VA

Though it is easily the largest city in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia , Roanoke is still relatively small in the city sense of the word.

Roanoke’s population is around 100,000 (slightly larger than that of  Asheville NC ), and it’s just as well-known for the natural beauty that surrounds it as it is for the urbanity within its borders.

In addition to the Virginia Museum of Transportation, there’s a fantastic collection of museums and entertainment (including the Roanoke Pinball Museum, Harrison Museum of African American Culture, Science Museum of Western VA, and more) at  Center in the Square in Downtown Roanoke .

The Historic Downtown is walkable and packed with good restaurants, breweries , open-air market stalls, and the Roanoke River Greenway.

Roanoke also has a collection of amazing natural Virginia attractions nearby. Lexington and Natural Bridge aren’t far north. McAfee Knob and the Appalachian Trail are just south on the I-81.

Carvins Cove , a 12,000-acre nature reserve with a 630-acre reservoir, is within the city limits. And the Blue Ridge Parkway passes right by the city’s famous Mill Mountain Park and Roanoke Star .

READ MORE:  The 10 Best Restaurants in Roanoke VA

14. Virginia Creeper Trail

The Virginia Creeper National Recreation Trail is a rail trail that connects Abingdon VA to the Whitetop Community, near the Virginia- North Carolina border.

The trail is 33.4 miles long, and it’s open to hiking , biking, and horseback riding.

The VCT was originally a Native American footpath, which Daniel Boone later used for his pioneering. It was then turned into a railway for transporting lumber, iron ore, and passengers.

In fact, the “Virginia Creeper” name comes from the slow motion of the steam locomotives that once made the 1600-foot ascent.

The trail is now 100% dedicated to recreation, with 50+ trestles and bridges along the way.

Much of the Virginia Creeper Trail runs through private land, with only an 80-foot right-of-way. But the trail does go through the Mt. Rogers National Recreation Area. 

READ MORE: Visiting Tweetsie Railroad in Blowing Rock NC

15. Virginia Vineyards

Virginia has over 300 wineries . They’re widely distributed throughout the state, which has a great climate for cultivating grapes.

Local vineyards are all over the map of Southwest Virginia, and they are located in some of the most beautiful places in VA.

Over a dozen well-established wineries dot the region, from Abingdon to Roanoke and Giles County.

Some of the wineries have been around for decades, such as Chateau Morrisette (near Floyd VA).

Newer vineyards, like Giles Mountain Vineyard and Whitebarrel Winery, are leading the charge for growing and producing “green” wines. – Jonathon Engels; lead image of Grayson Highlands by Dawson Tozier

We encourage anyone who loves the Blue Ridge region to learn about the  Leave No Trace   principles of responsible environmental stewardship. 

Stay on marked trails, take only pictures, pack out your trash, and be considerate of others who share the trails and parks you explore. 

Remember that waterfalls and rocky summits can be dangerous. Never try to climb waterfalls or get close to a ledge to get a selfie.

When you're exploring the wilderness, it's better to be safe than to be a statistic!

Jonathon Engels

After visiting North Carolina for the first time, Senior Writer Jonathon Engels and wife Emma spent 2 years exploring Western NC in search of a homestead property. They first lived in Brevard, where Jonathon taught writing at Blue Ridge Community College and extensively explored the Blue Ridge Parkway and Pisgah National Forest. For the last several years they have lived just off the BRP near Elkin, Southwest Virginia, and the NC High Country. The couple also volunteers with the Surry Old Time Fiddlers Convention, the Elkin Valley Trail Association, and Reeves Downtown School of Music.

Ultimate SW Virginia Road Trip: 7 Things to Do in Southwest VA

When people think of planning a Virginia vacation the first thing that comes to mind is miles of beaches, ocean life, and historic battlefields.

While these are awesome things to do in Virginia, I think a lot of people forget about the lush parks and natural wonders that Southwest Virginia holds.

The last time I was in Virginia I was 18 and on a day trip from Washington D.C to visit George Washington’s house. It was all I saw of Virginia and I haven’t been back since. So when we were asked to visit Southwest Virginia to discover the outdoors and adventure on offer, we didn’t even hesitate.

We uncovered so many incredible things that we didn’t know existed and based on the response we got from our photos on our social accounts, few others know about either. Boy, did that surprise us.

Awesome Things to Do in Southwest Virginia

Table of Contents

You could fill weeks with hiking, fishing, biking, horseback riding and a multitude of other adventures in Southwest Virginia. It’s that good and it’s incredibly untouched. It could be the best-kept secret of the East coast.

We realized quickly that 5 days would never be enough to experience it all but we did the best we could and we’re hoping it’s enough to inspire you to plan your own road trip .

1. Marion & Hungry Mother State Park

Flying into Roanoke, we picked up a rental car and headed for Marion, Virginia to begin our road trip through Southwest Virginia.

Home to the Hungry Mother State Park , Marion is the definition of small-town USA. It’s the type of place that people yearn to see when they visit the USA from foreign countries.

Built upon a single main street, American flags hanging from the buildings, historical buildings and friendly locals deliver warmth and pride when you arrive in Marion.

The slogan for the town is literally ‘America’s Coolest Hometown’ and they are so right.

One of the main draws to Marion is the famous Lincoln Theater, where you can see live performances of Song of the Mountains; legendary Bluegrass at it’s finest. People come from all over the country to take in the once a month performance.

The other main draw is the 3,334 acres Hungry Mother State Park. The entrance is just on the outskirts of Marion and a place that draws people for camping, hiking, and swimming.

The park boasts a 108-acre lake as the ideal place to cool down on those hot summer days in Southwest Virginia.

Some of the most popular hikes in Hungry Mother State Park include Molly’s Knob, Clyburn Ridge Loop, Raider’s Run and Lake Trail.

With all hikes, be sure to let someone know where you will be hiking, take adequate amounts of water with you, pack some snacks for energy and be bear aware.

Black bears frequent the area and it is not uncommon to run across them when you get away from the busy areas of the park.

2. Hike The Channels

This is literally Virginia’s best-kept secret and one of the coolest and most unique hikes we have ever done. The Channels area has only recently been discovered; think less than 10 years since it was first accessed.

It’s part of a Virginia State Natural Area Preserve and efforts are being made to mark trails and raise awareness of this hiking trail.

Visiting the Channels is like stepping back in time and feeling like an explorer. The hike up is along an old access road before branching off and sending you way up to the top of the mountain at 4,000 feet in elevation.

At the top, you’ll find an old homestead ruin, a radio tower and tucked-away access to the rock formations that make the Channels.

This natural phenomenon was formed during the last ice age but the sandstone itself is over 400 million years old and was formed by ocean sediment from erosion of the massive mountains that once stood there.

It’s not uncommon to find brachiopod and trilobite fossils during your hike.

There is a small parking lot at the trailhead and the road that starts the hike is clearly visible, beyond that the trails are not marked well. The hike up is steep and long but incredibly rewarding once you reach the Channels at the top.

3. Virginia Creeper Trail

From the minute we arrived in Southwest Virginia, we were told that we couldn’t leave without biking down the Virginia Creeper Trail , which is was one of the absolute best things to do in Virginia.

While we were skeptical at first, the afternoon we spent on the trail was not only fun but also beautiful.

The entire trail stretches 34 miles from Abingdon, through the town of Damascus ending at the Whitetop Station at the Virginia-North Carolina border.

Originally a railroad track for the US expansion project in the 1880s and then for moving iron ore, the trail follows the Whitetop Laurel Creek with many bridge crossings along the way.

We opted for the 17 mile stretch of trail from the top at Whitetop Station down to Damascus. Most of this trail is downhill, starting at 3,500 feet at the top ending at 1,900 feet when you reach Damascus.

This makes the trail insanely fun as you coast and pedal to the sounds of nature.

We rented our bikes at the Sun Dog Outfitters shop that intersects the Virginia Creeper Trail when it enters Damascus. They provided us with a shuttle up to the Whitetop Station.

The bikes were in meticulous condition, well maintained, adjusted to fit perfectly before we left and a bottle of water placed in the holder.

The trail typically takes 2.5-3 hours but many people choose to stop and swim along the way. We made multiple photos stops so it took us around 4 hours to complete.

4. Virginia Highlands Horse Trail & Grayson Highlands

I’m a horse girl, through and through, so whenever I get the opportunity to hop in the saddle on our travels I take it.

This time, we were in for a backcountry trek through the Mount Rogers Recreation Area along the Virginia Highlands Horse Trail in search of the wild ponies that reside in the Grayson Highlands.

Our day was spent on a guided trail ride with Tommy Billings of Billingsway Farm Rustic Retreats  and his fantastic horses. I can’t stress the importance of well-behaved horses when it comes to trail riding.

Not only are you getting on a strange horse, but riding in an area that you have never been to, so it’s really important that the horses be well-trained and behave with new riders.

Tommy’s horses are some of the best horses we’ve sat on in our travels and because of that, we had the most amazing day riding up the mountain through the forests of Southwest Virginia.

The ride took us approximately 5 hours to the top and back with a stop for lunch and some light searching for the wild ponies.

Unfortunately, we didn’t come across the wild ponies on our ride but the intense forests on the way up until the opening to beautiful green meadows at the top more than made up for it.

If you like horses and adventure, this day trip is highly recommended by us and without a doubt one of the top things to do in Virginia.

5. Hiking on the Appalachian Trail – Woods Hole to Pearisburg

We simply could not visit Southwest Virginia without putting our boots on the infamous Appalachian Trail.

Stretching just over 2,200 miles, spanning 14 states it’s one of the most celebrated thru-hikes in the world and part of the illustrious Triple Crown of Hiking in the United States.

Not getting too ambitious on our short trip, we decided to hike a small portion of the trail, just over 10 miles, from Woods Hole to Pearisburg.

This part of the trail is very picturesque following the ridgeline of the mountains through thick, lush forests before descending.

The entire experience was classic, starting with humid weather turning to torrential downpours, we feel we got a true experience while hiking on the Appalachian Trail.

Yes, we were soaking wet by the time we reached Pearisburg but it was one heck of an adventure.

More information on the 544-mile section of the Appalachian Trail that runs through Virginia can be found at Virginia is for Lovers – Appalachian Trail .

6. Bass Fishing on the New River

Growing up fishing on the lakes and rivers of Northern Wisconsin, we both were intrigued when we learned that the New River has world-class bass fishing.

Turns out people from all over the country will come to Pembroke and spend weeks camping and fishing the oldest river in North America .

Tangent Outfitters , the supreme choice for fishing trips on the New River, runs a fantastic operation and experience in Southwest Virginia.

Shawn Hash, owner, and the guide showed us a fantastic morning on the river and it was clear that not only is fishing his job but his passion.

He knew everything about the way the river moves and how the fish react to it. If we weren’t pulling fish out of the water within seconds of casting, it was on to another spot.

We caught well over 20 smallmouth bass that morning and a couple of rock bass for good measure. We had a friendly competition going for who could catch the biggest fish and David won when he landed a 19-inch Smallmouth Bass. My biggest fish was 15 inches.

The New River is catching and release for anything under 21 inches, so we threw everything back.

When we weren’t reeling we were taking in the mountain views all around us, even spotting a tower on top of the mountain where we had stopped the day before when hiking on the Appalachian Trail.

People enjoy a wide variety of water activities on the New River including rafting, kayaking, boating, swimming and paddle boarding in addition to fishing.

It’s a great place to relax, be in nature and just take in the great outdoors of Southwest Virginia.

7. Hike to Cascade Falls

Located on the same road as Tangent Outfitters, is the access road to the Cascades National Recreation Trail .

A visit here wasn’t part of our original plan but after numerous people asked us if we had been to Cascade Falls, we decided to see what all the fuss was about.

This park features a 4-mile loop trail that navigates a rocky path through bright green forests along a rushing river that ends at a 66-foot waterfall, aptly known as the Cascades.

The trail was absolutely stunning and we’d say it was mild to moderate. We encountered several families and a wide variety of ages navigating the trail and enjoying the park during our hike.

The trail is well marked with several access points to the river, meaning you can go for a swim at any time you get too hot or want to take a break.

We pushed straight through on the trail, stopping only for photo breaks along the way. We were eager to reach the falls and see what all the hype was about.

Not only was the trail rewarding but the falls were as incredible as people had described. Starting at the top with a steep drop that is caught halfway by a protruding rock that creates a fanning of water to the bottom, the falls are worth the walk.

You can swim in the pool at the base or hand out on the surrounding rocks. It’s a great hike with high reward.

Note: Parking costs $3.00 at the trailhead and you need exact change. It is self-moderated but park rangers are moving in and out of the park regularly. We saw several issue tickets to cars that had failed to complete the parking paperwork.

There is access to running water toilets and picnic tables at the trailhead as well.

Tips for Planning A Southwest Virginia Road Trip

Southwest virginia road trip route.

Of course there are a number of different routes to pursue in this region, but we’re going to highlight the one that we did for planning purposes.

Our trip started by flying into Roanoke, Virginia. Here we rented a car and headed for Marion.

The route took us deeper into the southwest in both Abingdon and Damascus. We then made our way towards Woods Hole, Pearisburg and Pembroke. Ultimately ending back at the airport in Roanoke.

Places to Stay in Southwest Virginia

It’s important that you not only choose good accommodation during your travels but also places that are in good locations.

There are several options in Southwest Virginia however, these are the properties we stayed at and recommend from our first-hand experience.

THE COLLINS HOUSE (MARION)

Located on Main Street in Marion. The house touts numerous awards as a luxury bed and breakfast and the owners are passionate about their property and your experience.

The rooms are gorgeous, clean and all include an ensuite bathroom. The house is huge and certainly gives you the feel of what old America was like. There are even ghost tales to accompany your stay if you dare to listen.

Check prices and book your own stay at The Collins House

DAMASCUS OLD MILL INN (DAMASCUS)

Located right in downtown Damascus, this hotel is steeped in history and located on the banks of the Laurel Creek.

The mill overlooks the grist mill waterfall giving you fantastic views while relaxing on the back deck area. The rooms contain beautiful period furniture, which is clean and comfortable.

Check prices and book your own stay at Damascus Old Mill Inn

WOODS HOLE HOSTEL (PEARISBURG)

An institution to Appalachian Trail thru-hikers, this mountain retreat is a refuge for hikers and outdoor seekers in Southwest Virginia.

Discovered in 1939 and built into a backcountry haven over time, this rustic retreat is basic, quirky and the epitome of away from the crowds. It’s also a great place to meet thru-hikers on the Appalachian Trail.

Check prices and book your own stay at Woods Hole Hostel

MOUNTAIN LAKE LODGE (PEMBROKE)

If you loved the movie Dirty Dancing then you’ll love the opportunity to stay at the place where they filmed the movie. We had so much fun running around the property and reliving the movie moments.

The lodge still resembles the film site in many ways in addition to being a relaxing mountain retreat set in the woods. Spoiler alert: the lake you see in the movie no longer exists.

Check prices and book your own stay at Mountain Lake Lodge

Places to Eat in Southwest Virginia

We came, we ate and we’re ready to share our favorites with you. Again, there are a lot of restaurants on offer and you’ll find no shortage in selection but these are the places we visited and enjoyed during our road trip in Southwest Virginia.

• Wooden Pickle (Marion): As quirky as the name sounds, this little bar-restaurant is located right on Main Street in Marion and is a great place to meet locals, sample some of Virginia’s great craft beers and enjoy classic southern cuisine.
• Hey Joe’s (Damascus): We loved this little burrito spot. Owned by a local family, all ingredients are locally sourced and items are handmade fresh, including the salsa, guacamole and cheese dip. Tip- order a burrito, they are fantastic.
• Damascus Old Mill Inn (Damascus): It’s all about the views here, overlooking the Grist mill waterfall, this restaurant is located inside the lobby of the Inn. They offer a big menu with a variety of southern favorites to choose from. Tip- order a craft beer from the Damascus Brewery, you can’t get it anywhere else.
• The Palisades (Eggleston): Located in what used to be the Pyne’s General Store, this restaurant screams Southern charm and serves borderline gourmet food. Which surprised us, in the best way you can imagine. The interior retains the look of the old general store and the walls are lined with relics from the past. Worth the trip for a meal.
• Harvest (Pembroke): Located in the lobby of the Mountain Lake Lodge, have a seat in the very place the dining scenes were filmed for Dirty Dancing. The menu offers up a variety of Southern and classic American favorites. If you can, grab a seat on the patio that overlooks the grounds.
• Riviera Mexican Grill (Pembroke): Classic Mexican restaurant located just across the street from Tangent Outfitters, a great stop to fuel up between your fishing trip and a hike at the Cascades.

Our Final Thoughts on Southwest Virginia

If you like hidden places, hiking, outdoors and adventure you should absolutely head to Southwest Virginia at the next opportunity you get.

The area is preparing itself for a boom in tourism and they’re ready to get the word out about their world-class natural wonders.

Our road trip opened our eyes to Virginia as more than a beach destination and a place with much more history than the Civil War. We’d definitely like to return and dive a little deeper.

Disclosure: Our Southwest Virginia road trip was hosted by Visit Virginia. All opinions, as always, are 100% mine.

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Lina is an award-winning photographer and writer that has been exploring the world since 2001. She has traveled to 100 countries on all 7 continents. Member: SATW, NATJA, ATTA, ITWA

3 thoughts on “Ultimate SW Virginia Road Trip: 7 Things to Do in Southwest VA”

Very well written; good photo representations; enjoyable reading while also enticing me to get out of my state and visiting that area. Thank you. Good job to Lina and David!

Thanks for visiting us here in Marion, Virginia! We welcome you back anytime you are able to come!

Thank you! We loved our visit to Marion, wouldn’t hesitate to return again. 🙂

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Go Hike Virginia

15 Stunningly Gorgeous Southwest Virginia Hikes

Southwest Virginia is breathtaking. The region, which includes the Heart of Appalachia, is the real Southwest Virginia. Just keep driving south on I-81, friends. 

The hikes are absolutely amazing. In Southwest Virginia, you’ll find tumbling waterfalls, spectacular vistas, refresthing swimming holes and wild ponies.

Southwest Virginia is home to Mount Rogers, the highest point in Virginia. You’ll even find the Great Channels, a curious sandstone maze set atop a mountain.

I’ve been to the area several times, and even wrote an article about the region for The Washington Post . The hiking trails are first-rate, and the views. Woah.

Table of Contents

Southwest Virginia Hikes 

Here are 15 must-do Southwest Virginia hiking trails. All are considered moderate, with the exception of Big Cedar Creek Falls, which is an easy hike.

#1:  Sand Cave (Ewing)

Sand Cave had simple beginnings. Once a massive rock, wind eroded the sandstone over many years to create 250-foot-wide half-dome Sand Cave.

Inside, an acre of beach-like sand awaits the driven few that choose to hike 4.0-miles on the Ewing Trail and Ridge Trail to reach the awe-inspiring natural cave.

The hiking trail is almost entirely in Virginia, but Sand Cave is inches over the Kentucky border. So, both states claim this geological wonder as their own.

#2:  Molly’s Knob  (Marion)

Hiking to Molly’s Knob deserves a spot on your hiking bucket list, but it’s not for the faint of heart thanks to an elevation increase of 200+ feet in the last 0.2-mile.

This hike really makes you earn the payoff views. When you reach Molly’s Knob, two wooden benches welcome worthy hikers who have made it to the top.

The mountain views to the south and west are outstanding. Plan to sit awhile to re-hydrate and re-fuel before the relatively easy descent back to the parking lot.

#3:  Tri-State Peak  (Cumberland Gap)

This hike at Cumberland Gap National Historical Park guides visitors to the 1,990-foot-tall peak at the point where Kentucky, Virginia and Tennessee meet.

In the first steps, you will see an Iron Furnace along Gap Creek that was used from the 1820’s to the 1880’s to create iron, which was then sold to area blacksmiths.

Placards educate on westward travels through the Cumberland Gap. A pyramid-shaped stone marker celebrates the work of early pioneer, Daniel Boone.

#4:  Breaks Interstate Loop  (Haysi)

Home to the “Grand Canyon of the South,” a five-mile gorge that’s more than 1,650 feet deep, it’s not hard to comprehend why Breaks Interstate Park is a must-go.

There are many short trails at this stately park, but cobbling together four or five different hiking trails creates a wondrous 3.6-mile loop hike that’s a real winner.

Along the way, you’ll be awed by scenic overlooks, rock scrambles, hidden springs, small caves, cliff overhangs and majestic forest, even a 40-foot mini-canyon.

#5:  Devil’s Bathtub  (Fort Blackmore)

The Devil’s Bathtub hike is well-known, even beyond state lines. With a name like Devil’s Bathtub, it’s hard not to inspire genuine curiosity.

A waterfall and a crystal-clear basin lure hikers in for a swim. You’ll even find two rope swings, as well as the bathtub itself. At least, a bathtub-shaped basin.

Curious about the name? Explore Scott County  alleges that it’s called Devil’s Bathtub because it’s the “only water cold enough to squelch the fires of hell.”

#6:  Flag Rock  (Norton)

In search of the  Woodbooger ? A 2.9-mile out-and-back hike to Flag Rock Overlook leads you to this Bigfoot-like creature that lurks high above Norton.

Said to roam the woods of Southwest Virginia, the Woodbooger is partial to Norton’s Flag Rock Recreation Area. His statue is steps from the overlook.

The west-facing views from Flag Rock Overlook are fantastic, making this rock a popular spot for watching colorful sunsets. With the Woodbooger, of course.

#7:  Little Stony Falls  (Dungannon)

A peaceful 4.8-mile out-and-back hike rewards with Little Stony Creek alongside the trail as you make your way to the swimming hole at Little Stony Falls.

The trail follows Little Stony Creek through a 400-foot-deep and 1700-foot-wide gorge along an old railroad bed in Scott County, Virginia.

Allegedly, the falls you reach at the turn-around point is Middle Falls. You cannot continue hiking on to Upper Falls. However, this basin is beautiful.

#8:  The Great Channels (Rosedale)

The 6.6-mile round-trip hike to the Great Channels along the Brumley Mountain Trail is a popular one, leading to a curious maze of sandstone crevices.

Plan to duck, squeeze, climb and crawl with child-like curiosity as you explore this 20-acre labyrinth set atop Clinch Mountain within Channels Natural Area Preserve.

This other-worldly sandstone maze was purportedly created by ice wedging and permafrost 10,000 years ago, much to the delight of present-day visitors.

#9:  Wilburn Ridge  (Mouth of Wilson)

You can’t go to Grayson Highlands State Park and not hike to see the free-roaming wild ponies, at least not on your first visit to this state park in Southwest Virginia.

Park at Massie Gap. Your first steps will be on the Rhododendron Trail on your way to Wilburn Ridge, a gorgeous landscape of grassy balds and alpine meadows.

From here, you can hike north on the Appalachian Trail to Wilburn Ridge or south to Lower Wilburn Ridge. You’ll see plenty of wild ponies on both scenic routes.

#10:  Big Cedar Creek Falls  (Lebanon)

At Pinnacle Natural Area Preserve, a delightful hike leads to Big Cedar Creek Falls (aka Big Falls). Three different styles of falls are ready to impress.

Set your towel down on the stone-covered beach before you rush into the basin for a splash sure to be an adrenaline rush on this 3.1-mile out-and-back hike.

Stroll the Pinnacle View Trail to see the park’s namesake, The Pinnacle. This formation of dolomite and sandstone towers 600 feet over Big Cedar Creek.

#11: Mount Rogers (Marion)

There are more than a few people who aspire to reach the highpoint of every U.S. state, which includes Mount Rogers, the highest point in Virginia.

At an elevation of 5,730 feet, it’s far from the tallest highpoint in America, but it’s still much higher than Britton Hill, the 345-foot-tall highpoint in Florida.

A 9.0-mile out-and-back hike along the white-blazed Appalachian Trail leads to the state’s highpoint, but sadly not to big views.

#12: Buzzard Rock (Damascus)

Many people know the Buzzard Rock near Front Royal. This hike along the Buzzard Rock Trail wows with commanding west-facing views. 

Drive a few hours southwest along I-81 and you’ll find another Buzzard Rock hike. This one is a stone’s throw from Damascus, Virginia.

This 4.8-mile forested hike guides visitors along a section of the white-blazed Appalachian Trail, leading to open balds with far-reaching vistas. Incredible.

#13: Chestnut Knob (Burke’s Garden)

There are 62 Appalachian Trail shelters in Virginia, including the Chestnut Knob Shelter near Burke’s Garden.

The Chestnut Knob Shelter sits atop Chestnut Knob (elevation 4,409 feet). A good-size grassy overlook allows for panoramic views across all of Burke’s Garden.

A short hike on the Appalachian Trail – just 2.8-miles round-trip – leads to the shelter, as well as seriously monumental views.

#14: High Rocks (Wytheville)

For big views of downtown Wytheville, make a beeline for High Rocks. Interestingly, there are two separate hikes that lead to the rocky summit.

You can go short and sweet (though rocky and steep) by way of the 2.9-mile out-and-back hike on the High Rocks Trail. This one gets you to the top in a flash.

Or, hike to High Rocks from Crystal Springs Recreation Area via a 9.2-mile out-and-back hike on the High Rocks Spur Trail. Either way, you’ll be wowed by the views.

#15: Dickey Knob  (Sugar Grove)

A stop at the Raccoon Branch Campground near Sugar Grove allows for a 4.8-mile out-and-back hike that includes the top of Dickey Knob.

The Dickey Knob Trail leads to the remains of a former fire tower, as well as northeast-facing vistas across the Rye Valley and Sugar Grove.

This forested hiking trail within the Raccoon Branch Wilderness in Smyth County is unmarked, but it’s relatively easy to follow up to the high point.

Erin Gifford has completed more than 300 hikes in Virginia. She is also the author of three hiking guidebooks from Falcon Guides. Need help finding a hike? Check out the Trail Finder feature or send Erin an email at [email protected] .

• ← Shenandoah River State Park: A Riverside Gem in Warren County, Virginia
• Corbin Cabin: Hike Along the Hughes River to a Log Cabin at Shenandoah National Park →

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This Is My South

A travel guide to the Southern USA

Weekend Guide to Southwest Virginia

September 6, 2019 By Caroline Eubanks Leave a Comment

The area that makes up Southwest Virginia includes over 20 counties and destinations like Bristol, Abingdon, Big Stone Gap, Galax, Blacksburg , Roanoke, Radford, and many other smaller communities. The region was first settled before the Civil War by immigrants of English, German, and Scots-Irish origin.

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It shares more in common with its Appalachian neighbors like Kentucky and Tennessee than other parts of Virginia, especially when it comes to music. Southwest Virginia is home to the Crooked Road Music Trail , an arts corridor with hundreds of venues to see “old-time” and mountain music.

These genres led to the creation of modern country and bluegrass music. Today the area is home to a number of annual festivals including Mountains of Music Homecoming, Mountain Music School, Home Craft Days Festival, and Rhythm & Roots.

This post is only an overview of the region. If you want to read more about it, check out our book, This Is My South: The Essential Travel Guide to the Southern States .

What to Do in Southwest Virginia

Southwest Virginia Cultural Center – Formerly known as Heartwood, this incredible multifaceted center is the welcome center for the region with an artisan market, exhibits, and weekly jam sessions. They have their own cafe selling regional dishes. 1 Heartwood Circle, Abingdon

William King Museum of Art – Located in a former school, the hilltop art museum features exhibits from Appalachian artists as well as exhibits with artifacts related to early life in Southwest Virginia. 415 Academy Drive NW, Abingdon

Barter Theatre – At the heart of Abingdon’s arts community is the theater that dates back to the Great Depression when guests could “barter” their way in for a show. Today they run two to three productions at a time, including family-friendly programming. 127 West Main Street, Abingdon

Arts Depot – As the name implies, the art gallery located in a former train depot features the work of artists from around the region. They can display their paintings, photos, and even fabric artwork as well as sell them. 314 Depot Square SW, Abingdon

Wolf Hills Brewery – Located right off of the main strip in Abingdon, Virginia, the garage setting is perfect to strike up a conversation with the friendly bartender or locals. 350 Park Street SE, Abingdon

Virginia Creeper Trail – The rails-to-trails path connects Abingdon to the North Carolina border, stopping in towns like Damascus along the way. The 34-mile path is popular with cyclists and hikers. Abingdon

Damascus Brewery – The brewery has a “local hangout” vibe and offers crowlers to go. It’s the perfect spot for refreshment after a long day of biking or a section hike. 32173 Government Road, Damascus

Jeff Matthews Memorial Museum – The museum interprets the history of Galax with 1800s cabins, Native American artifacts, and one of the largest Kodiak bears on display in the world. 606 West Stuart Drive, Galax

Blue Ridge Music Center – Learn about the region’s music year-round, including the European and African traditions that merged in Appalachia. They also have an outdoor amphitheater that hosts seasonal concerts. 700 Foothills Road, Galax

Harry W. Meador Jr. Coal Museum – This museum tells the story of the legacy of coal mining in Appalachia and how it has affected the people that live there. 570 Shawnee Avenue East, Big Stone Gap

Sinkland Farms Brewery – The scenic farm is also a craft brewery with ten beers on offer. They also have live music and food trucks as well as seasonal events like a pumpkin festival. 3060 Riner Road, Christiansburg

Buffalo Mountain Brewery – Located at McDaniel’s Tavern, this venue is not only a craft brewery but also hosts bluegrass jam sessions. They offer an English bitter, cream ale, and a porter with names inspired by the region. 332 Webbs Mill Road North, Floyd

Birthplace of Country Music Museum – Opened in 2014, this museum is inspired by the 1927 Bristol Sessions that heavily influenced modern American music. It has Smithsonian-affiliated exhibits and educational programming. 101 Country Music Way, Bristol

Blue Ridge Institute and Museum – Located at Ferrum College, this museum documents the mountains, its music, and culture with a living history farmstead, photographs, and recordings. 20 Museum Drive, Ferrum

Wineries and Cideries- In addition to the many breweries, this region has wineries, cideries, and distilleries on the Blue Ridge Cheers Trail . Don’t miss Abingdon Vineyards, Chateau Morrisette, and Foggy Ridge, among many others. The Virginia Blue Ridge Winery Tour is a good way to see them.

Hiking- This region contains some incredible trails and recreation areas, including the Blue Ridge Parkway , Appalachian Trail , Mount Rogers National Recreation Area, the High Knob Recreation Area, and the Daniel Boone Wilderness Trail. There’s also the Brumley Mountain Trail, located just outside Abingdon in Rosedale.

Where to Eat in Southwest Virginia

The Tavern – The former stagecoach stop dates back to 1779, previously hosting the likes of Henry Clay, King Louis Phillipe, and President Andrew Jackson. The menu features American and German dishes like schnitzel and North Carolina trout. 222 East Main Street, Abingdon, (276) 628-1118

128 Pecan – The funky diner is open for lunch and dinner with a casual menu including soups, salads, sandwiches, and daily specials. The Thai sesame peanut noodles and crab cake sandwich are favorites. 128 Pecan Street Southeast, Abingdon, (276) 698-3159

Bone Fire Smokehouse – Voted the best barbecue and ribs around, the restaurant is known for its smoked meats. But they also have incredible wings and jackfruit, a vegan option. Set in a former hardware store, they also have live music. 260 West Main Street, Abingdon, (276) 623-0037

White Birch Juice & Food – Open since 2014, the cafe has healthy options like cold-pressed juices, pasture-raised meats, and farm fresh eggs. Enjoy breakfast burritos, smoothie bowls, and burgers. 170 East Main Street, Abingdon, (276) 608-0541

Historic Pine Tavern – Opened in 1927 at a roadside inn, the restaurant serves family recipes in the shadow of the Blue Ridge Mountains. They have family-style dishes like fried chicken, country ham, and buttermilk biscuits. 611 Floyd Highway North (Route 221 North), Floyd, (540) 745-4482

Damascus Old Mill Restaurant – Set in a historic inn, the restaurant has Southern favorites like their fried green tomato BLT, chopped steak, and country-fried catfish. 215 West Imboden Street, Damascus, (276) 475-3745

Mojos Trailside Cafe – The restaurant and coffee shop is conveniently located near the Creeper Trail, making it the perfect stopover. They serve breakfast, sandwiches, salads, and smoothies. 331 Douglas Drive, Damascus, (276) 475-5505

Blackbird Bakery – Another 24-hour restaurant, this cafe offers coffee drinks, made-from-scratch pastries, ice cream, and cozy spaces to relax. 56 Piedmont Avenue, Bristol, (276) 645-5754

The Black Hen Restaurant – One of many great restaurants in the college town, this one has contemporary American fare like spiced lamb chops, steaks, and weekend brunch. 126 Jackson Street Northwest, Blacksburg, (540) 951-3000

Where to Stay in Southwest Virginia

Martha Washington Inn – The 63-room hotel was built as a retirement home for a War of 1812 general and later was a college campus. It’s hosted presidents and celebrities and has a spa, restaurant, and a cozy library. 150 West Main Street, Abingdon

Craddock Terry Hotel – Set in an 1888 shoe factory, the stylish yet industrial hotel has amenities like daily breakfast and a dog ambassador. There are 44 pet-friendly rooms and rental bicycles to explore the area. 1312 Commerce Street, Lynchburg

The Virginian Lynchburg – The Curio Collection property is in a 1913 building with a rooftop bar and lobby coffee shop. The over 100 rooms boast complimentary WiFi, coffee makers, and cozy bathrobes. 712 Church Street, Lynchburg

The Omni Homestead Resort – Boasting over 2,000 acres of Virginia landscape, the resort has been the getaway for 23 US presidents. It has a full-service spa that takes advantage of nearby mineral springs. 7696 Sam Snead Highway, Hot Springs

Chapman Knoll – This rural bed and breakfast features private guesthouses with breakfast delivered daily. Each has a fireplace, kitchen, free WiFi, and luxury toiletries. 7629 Charity Highway, Woolwine

Primland Resort – The luxury resort has a range of accommodations, including lodge rooms, cabins, and treehouses. They have soaking tubs, WiFi, and a private vehicle to take to and from the lodge. Primland also has two restaurants and countless activities. 2000 Busted Rock Road, Meadows of Dan

Apple Ridge Farm – The non-profit farm’s Caboose Car Bed & Breakfast allows visitors to stay in former train cars outfitted in queen beds. They also have decks and complimentary breakfast as well as access to the pool and ropes course. 9230 Pine Forest Road, Copper Hill

Woodchuck Hostel and SongPeddlar Rest – The ten-bed hostel hosts hikers from the Appalachian Trail and Creeper Trail with hearty breakfasts, WiFi, and shuttle services to the trails. There are dorms, a cabin, and hammocks. 533 Docie Street, Damascus

The Bristol Hotel – Set in a 1925 building, the 65-room boutique hotel is inspired by the area’s surroundings with vintage doors and railroad-inspired furnishings. There’s also a rooftop bar, an in-house restaurant, and art installations. 510 Birthplace Of Country Music Way, Bristol

Stonewall Bed & Breakfast – Located near the Blue Ridge Parkway, the three-level log cabin is furnished in antiques with free WiFi and access to hiking trails. Each room has a different style. 102 Wendi Pate Trail Southeast, Floyd

Fancy Gap Cabins – The site has rustic cabins equipped with a queen bed, mini-fridge, and porch. They also have campsites and motel rooms. Free WiFi is also available. Milepost 202.5, Blue Ridge Parkway, Fancy Gap

Natural Bridge Historic Hotel and Conference Center – With over 150 rooms, the Colonial-era hotel at the state park has WiFi and flat-screen televisions. Guests can also dine at multiple restaurants or tour the caves. 15 Appledore Lane, Natural Bridge

Camping- Southwest Virginia has an abundance of places to camp. Floyd Eco Village has traditional campsites as well as dorm rooms while Fancy Gap has RV and tent sites.

Glamping- You’ll also find glamping like the permanent tents at Floyd Yurt Lodging and Airstream at Hikers Inn . The region also has geodesic domes and tiny houses.

Rentals- A number of cabins are available for rent on sites like Airbnb , and VRBO .

Book your stay in Southwest Virginia with our preferred partner.

Sammi Eubanks also contributed to this guide. Visit Abingdon provided assistance in research and hosted our stay.

About Caroline Eubanks

Caroline Eubanks is the editor of this website, a Lowell Thomas award-winning travel writer, and the author of This Is My South: The Essential Travel Guide to the Southern States. Her stories from the South have appeared in National Geographic Traveler, Afar, Thrillist, Roads and Kingdoms, and BBC Travel.

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Wytheville, VA

Wytheville is a true original, not just because it’s the only town in the country fortunate enough to bear that name but also because of its stunning landscape, which includes majestic mountains, sparkling waters, and rolling hills. No doubt about it – a trip to this memorable and striking town in Southwest Virginia always leaves visitors wanting more!

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Wytheville and Wythe County are all about fun and experiencing incredible attractions that you will only find here in our small but bountiful part of Southwest Virginia.

5 RESTAURANTS IN WYTHEVILLE THE LOCALS LOVE

Due to its stellar location at I-81 and I-77, as well as some divine cuisine, Wytheville has long been known by travelers as THE place to stop and have some great food.

ROMANTIC GETAWAYS IN WYTHEVILLE

With a historic boutique hotel and an award winning luxury bed and breakfast, Wytheville is a great destination for your romantic getaway.

BEST MOTORCYCLE RIDE IN WYTHEVILLE

Featuring more than 200 miles of incredible scenery, Claw of the Dragon is one of the most popular bike rides in the South among motorcycle enthusiasts.

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10 things to do on a Southwest Virginia road trip

Hike mountain meadows grazed by wild ponies, pay homage to the roots of country music, and sip spirits in the ‘Moonshine Capital of the World’

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Created by Roadtrippers - September 30th 2020

Written by Malee Oot

S pread over the ridges and valleys of Appalachia, Southwest Virginia lays claim to some of the Old Dominion state’s most spectacular natural wonders. The region is blanketed by massive swaths of the Jefferson National Forest, threaded by the oldest waterway in the U.S., and crowned by the highest peak in the state. Southwest Virginia is also celebrated as the birthplace of country music, spearheaded by legends like the Carter Family and the Stanley Brothers. Then, there’s moonshine. During Prohibition, the region was notorious for flooding markets along the East Coast with illicit spirits—and drew the scrutiny of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, earning Southwest Virginia’s Franklin County a reputation as the “Moonshine Capital of the World.”

With Appalachian peaks, wild ponies, moonshine lore, and plenty of country music legends, there’s no shortage of myths and marvels to experience on this journey through Southwest Virginia.

Burke's Garden

Tazewell, VA

Nestled into Garden Mountain like a divine thumbprint, Burke’s Garden is Virginia’s highest valley and the state’s largest rural historic district. Spread across approximately 40 miles, the geological anomaly is a repository of Native American history, scattered with archaeological sites dating to the early Archaic period. While James Burke was surveying the valley in 1748, he buried some vegetable peels and inadvertently planted potatoes; the following year, the mountain-cradled basin was jokingly named in honor of Burke’s rogue spuds. These days, the upland valley is a hub for cyclists; for hikers, the Appalachian Trail traces the ridges of Garden Mountain, offering views of Burke’s Garden from the Chestnut Knob shelter.

1 Twin Creeks Distillery

The Blue Ridge Mountains are awash with moonshining legends, fed by a distilling tradition dating back more than two centuries. During the 1700s, European settlers brought long-enduring distilling traditions to the region, and quickly realized the benefits of distilling spirits such as brandy and whiskey instead of brewing beer. In the early 1920s, after Prohibition became federal law, Virginia’s swath of the Blue Ridge Mountains emerged as a hotspot for illicit hooch; the rugged landscape was perfect for stashing secret stills, and a rich distilling industry was already in place. Twin Creeks Distillery in Rocky Mount is helmed by Chris Prillaman, a descendent of James Walter Hatcher, one of the defendants in the Moonshine Conspiracy Trial of 1935.

2 Breaks Interstate Park

Spread over the panoramic Pine Mountain range, Breaks Interstate Park is one of just two interstate parks in the entire country. Shared by Virginia and Kentucky, the protected area is anchored by a 5-mile-long chasm in Pine Mountain, one of the largest and deepest gorges east of the Mississippi River. The rugged landscape was once a hunting ground for the region’s early Cherokee and Shawnee inhabitants, and later was traversed by westbound pioneers. Today, the park also helps manage Virginia’s only wild elk herd. Reintroduced in 2012, the herd roams a reclaimed strip mine, now blanketed with woodland-edged meadows. For visitors, the park offers elk-viewing safaris during fall mating season and in the spring, when the elk are calving.

Flag Rock Recreational Area

Bigfoot sightings are usually associated with the Pacific Northwest, but the Southeast also has plenty of myths about the hulking woodland creature. Sasquatch encounters have been reported throughout Southwest Virginia since the end of the Civil War, even prompting a visit from the Bigfoot Field Researchers Organization (BFRO). Following the BFRO’s expedition, the city of Norton declared the Flag Rock Recreation Area an official “Woodbooger Sanctuary” in 2014, a nod to the creature’s local nickname. For aspiring cryptozoologists hoping to spy a resident woodbooger, the Flag Rock Area Trails network offers 10 miles of singletrack spread over the flanks of High Knob, open to mountain bikers, hikers, and runners. However, visitors are more likely to encounter the recreation area’s endemic green salamanders, the only tree climbing salamanders found in Virginia.

4 Carter Family Fold

With a musical legacy stretching back nearly a century, the Carter Family has rightfully been celebrated as the first family of country music. Although the original group had disbanded by the 1940s, the music continued, and Johnny Cash became inextricably linked to the family after marrying June Carter. Today, the family’s musical dynasty continues at the Carter Family Fold in Hiltons. Opened in 1979, the venue celebrates the region’s traditional music, particularly bluegrass and country.

5 Burger Bar

Bristol has plenty of country music lore. Straddling the border of Virginia and Tennessee, the town hosted the 1927 Bristol Sessions, a catalytic set of recordings featuring the debuts of the Carter Family and Jimmie Rodgers. The town also has a morbid legend: Hank Williams may have uttered his last words in Bristol, while being chauffeured from Knoxville to Ohio for a performance. On the evening of Williams’ death, his driver Charles Carr rolled into Bristol around midnight for gas. After noticing the Burger Bar, Carr asked Williams if he wanted a bite to eat. According to Carr’s telling, the country legend declined, and stayed in the car. A few hours later, Williams was pronounced dead at a hospital in Oak Hill, West Virginia. However, several stories of Williams’ pit stop in Bristol exist, including one rumor that he went into the Burger Bar to eat. Whichever story is true, the burger joint still celebrates the legend with menu items named for Williams’ songs.

Martha Washington Inn

Originally a private residence for the family of Francis Preston, a brigadier general during the War of 1812, the property now known as the Martha Washington Inn & Spa has anchored downtown Abingdon for more than 180 years. Constructed in 1832, the mansion was purchased and transformed into Martha Washington College, a prestigious school for girls in 1858. In 1935, the property was converted into a hotel, catering to a parade of distinguished guests, including Harry Truman, Jimmy Carter, and Elizabeth Taylor. Today, the Preston family’s original residence still forms the inn’s main structure, although modern amenities including a spa, lighted tennis courts, and heated saltwater pool have been added.

7 Barter Theatre

The Barter Theatre opened during the Great Depression and weathered the country’s tumultuous economic downturn. The vision of Southwest Virginia native and actor Robert Porterfield, the playhouse opened on June 10, 1933, and allowed patrons to pay their 40 cent theatre admission with all manner of goods, including livestock and produce. In 1946, the playhouse was declared the State Theatre of Virginia, and despite its small town location, the venue has hosted an array of legendary performers, including Ernest Borgnine, Ned Beatty, Gregory Peck, and Patricia Neal. With a full calendar of performances throughout the year, the Barter Theatre is among the longest-running professional theatres in the country.

8 The Tavern Restaurant

Originally a stop for travelers on The Great Stage Road, a stagecoach route linking Washington, D.C., and Nashville, the Tavern opened in 1779, and has been a fixture in the town of Abingdon ever since. Housed in the oldest building in Abingdon, the edifice’s east wing once served as the first post office west of the Blue Ridge, and during the Civil War, the Tavern’s attic housed wounded soldiers. According to local legend, the property’s lingering supernatural visitors include Captain Gordon William Rife, who was purportedly shot on the grounds of the Tavern when it was still a hotel, and a woman dubbed the “Tavern Tart,” who has reportedly been spotted peering onto the street from windows on the property’s second floor.

Grayson Highlands State Park

Mouth of Wilson, VA

Bounded by two rugged wilderness areas and the 200,000-acre Mount Rogers National Recreation Area, Grayson Highlands State Park preserves 4,502 acres of panoramic mountain meadows, shadowy rhododendron thickets, spruce-fir forests, and secluded waterfalls—all while also serving as a portal to Mount Rogers, the highest peak in Virginia. Black bears, bobcats, and white-tailed deer roam the park, along with a hardy herd of wild ponies—including a golden-maned stallion appropriately nicknamed Fabio. Introduced by the U.S. Forest Service in 1974, the wild ponies provide a natural landscaping service, helping to preserve the park’s highland meadows—also known as balds—a unique feature of the Southern Appalachian Mountains.

Banner Photo Credit: Malee Oot | Roadtrippers Magazine

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10 Best Hikes in Southwest Virginia

Southwest Virginia has built a reputation as one of the top hiking mecca’s on the east coast. Towns such as Abingdon , tucked amid the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains, serve as an excellent starting point for any trip to the region, with easy access to both cultural amenities and outdoor adventure. You’ll find craft breweries, bluegrass venues, farm-to-table restaurants, old-world bakeries, and artisan coffee shops in addition to the phenomenal trails. To help you discover what the area has to offer, here are 10 of the best hiking trails in Southwest Virginia (though, one could argue, this list could be much larger).

1. Virginia Creeper Trail

This 34-mile rail trail runs from Whitetop Mountain on the North Carolina/Virginia border to Abingdon, Virginia, and is open to hikers, bikers, and equestrians. One can expect to see pastoral countryside views filled with turn of the century farm houses, white plank-board churches, and the remnants of a bygone railroad culture along the route. At the same time one can take a look around and immerse themselves in the awe-inspiring natural surroundings of the mountains and creek that the VCT runs through. You’ll hit a town every 8 miles on the VCT, with Abingdon and Damascus being the main hubs making logistics easy.

2. Iron Mountain Trail

Once a portion of the famous Appalachian Trail before they rerouted it slightly south in 1972, the IMT is just as heavenly as ever, albeit a bit less trafficked. This 24-mile ridge hike is filled with all the makings of a Tolkien landscape. Every hue of green is found along the trail from the dark, forest-green pine trees to the electric neon-green moss clinging to the rocks that litter the hillside. Expect typical Appalachian topography with a fair amount of elevation. Rhodo-tunnels, creek-crossings, and rock gardens are all present. There are plenty of side trails to go explore off the IMT, making it a great destination for a backpacking trip. Damascus, Virginia, is the gateway town.

3. Appalachian Trail-Pine Mountain Trail in Grayson Highlands State Park

Let me start off by saying that Grayson Highlands State Park is a must visit for any hiker. And I mean any hiker, not just someone looking to explore Southwest Virginia. This place is something special and every one of the trails offer amazingly beautiful and diverse scenery that will deliver soul-cleansing serenity to all those that explore them. The AT- Pine Mountain Trail loop embodies all that is great about GHSP—wide-open vistas reminiscent of big-sky country out west, wild ponies, and rocky outcroppings that resemble a Mongolian steppe. Thickets of rhododendron, mountainside creeks and waterfalls, and beautiful wildflowers in season are all par for the course here.

4. The Channels Trail

Located near Elk Garden, Virginia, on top of Clinch Mountain lies one of the most unique and unknown hiking trails in the state. Although one gets 360-degree views and the standard Appalachian mountain fare on the The Channels trail, the highlight of the trail is undoubtedly navigating the maze-like rock corridor system. This portion of the TCT is part cave and part slot-canyon with rocks reaching nearly 50 feet high and forming tight corridors and slots for more than 50 yards. You’ll enjoy exploring this “rock fort,” which makes a perfect mid-hike excursion and lunch spot.

5. New River Trail

The New River Trail State Park is a 57-mile trail/park that parallels the New River for most of its way and crosses through four counties and the city of Galax, Virginia. Once a rail line, this converted trail is mostly flat and perfect for families and folks looking for an easy excursion. Hiking, picnicking, biking, and fishing are all popular activities on the NRT.

6. Seven Sisters Trail

The Seven Sisters Trail is right off of Route 52, also known as Virginia’s Scenic Byway, between Bland and Wytheville, Virginia. This 5-mile “ridge” is named for the seven mini-peaks that you will go up and down as you hike along the SST. Rocks, rhodos, creek crossings, pine trees, and moss make up the scenery along the way. You’ll find a few places to soak up long-range views of the surrounding Big Walker Mountain. It is important to note that this trail is not a loop and requires walking back from either terminus (the Route 52 trailhead or Stony Fork Campground trailhead) or shuttling vehicles.

7. Crystal Springs Trail Loop

This trail is part of the Crystal Springs Recreation Area that is managed by the town of Wytheville. This 1,800-acre area hosts more than 20 miles of trails that butt up against the 7,500-acre Big Survey Wildlife Management Area, which is slated to have quite a bit more mileage of trail in the near future. The CST loop is a 2.1-mile moderate hike that is great for anyone. It is obvious that the town takes care of the trail system evident by the great signage, well-built lean-tos and bridges, and well-maintained trail. Creeks, pine tree groves, rhodo-tunnels, wooden bridges, and picnic lean-to shelters, make up the ambience of this great local trail.

8. Chestnut Ridge, Appalachian Trail

The Chestnut Ridge section of the Appalachian Trail that is located near Burkes Garden, Virginia, is one of the best-kept secrets among the state’s hikers in the know. This portion of the AT offers remarkable mountain meadows and excellent long-range views of Virginia’s highest peak, Mt. Rogers. In season, the wildflowers are unbelievably gorgeous and a good enough reason alone to hike the trail.

9. High Points Trail

This 2.1-mile, point-to-point hike located in the Big Survey Wildlife Management Area takes you to a large rock overlook that affords great views of the surrounding mountains. Expect fairly steep uphill hiking through a dense forest filled with various plants and fungi scattered on the ground.

10. Cascades National Recreation Trail

Located near Pembroke, Virginia, the Cascades National Recreation Trail is a 4-mile loop that works its way alongside the aptly-named Little Stony Creek until it deposits you at the base of a breathtaking 66-foot high waterfall. The trail work is ingenious and is in perfect harmony with the natural setting. Expect lots of rock steps that have been carved into the bedrock and numerous wooden bridges that allow you to cross the creek and get close to the waterfall and feel its spray. The return hike is much easier as it follows a mostly flat grade in the forest.

*If you're interested in hiking these trails and would like a local with knowledge as a guide, visit White Blaze Outdoors for more information.* 

Originally written by RootsRated for AbingdonVA.

Featured image provided by Merritt Boyd

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A Different Side of Virginia

Framed by the magnificent Appalachian Mountains, Southwest Virginia boasts a vibrant culture that is bursting with a robust music heritage, outdoor adventure, spectacular scenery, and rich natural resources. Rooted deep in history, the culture is authentic, unique, and alive.

We continue to build a sustainable creative economy that preserves, protects and interprets our rich heritage and natural resources, creates jobs, and welcomes both visitors and new businesses to our region.

Southwest Virginia – we’re authentic, distinctive and alive – and a great place to visit or an incredible home where you can spend a lifetime. But that’s just the beginning. We’re enhancing opportunities for outdoor recreation in our mountains, forests, rivers, and lakes – and for appreciation of the incredible diversity of plants and animals that make their home here.

We’re revitalizing our downtowns, with artisan studios, coffee shops, community centers, gift, specialty and antique shops and more. At these cultural centers, people can hear live music, find one-of-a-kind treasures, talk to interesting folks and get a delicious home-cooked meal.

‘Round the Mountain

The ʼRound the Mountain artisan network helps craftspeople build their businesses, learn new skills and share their inspiration. The network publishes 15 artisan trail maps guiding visitors to studios, craft shops, farms, wineries and more throughout the region and maintains a directory of artisans, craft venues and artisanal agriculture and winemaking.

The Crooked Road, Virginia’s heritage music trail, connects eight major sites where our region’s unique music can be heard. Music jams – informal chances to get together and play – happen almost every night of the week and in almost every town and city. And there are festivals, concerts, and competitions every weekend in spring, summer, and autumn.

Cultural Center & Marketplace

Your welcome mat to this vibrant region, the Southwest Virginia Cultural Center & Marketplace (formerly Heartwood) is a 29,000 center that introduces Southwest Virginia (SWVA) to the world.

The picturesque mountainsides of Southwest Virginia are home to a number of well-established wineries, thanks in large part to a good climate for growing grapes, as well as a loamy and gravelly soil with good drainage and stunning elevations. Throughout the region, you’ll find a wide variety of enjoyable wines, ranging from reds and whites to sweet and limited releases. A brief description of each of Southwest Virginia’s offerings follows:   ABINGDON VINEYARDS With more......

Distilleries in SWVA

Virginia, which has a long and fascinating history regarding distilled drinks, produced the first batch of whiskey on American soil way back in 1620. A rich tradition has followed, with numerous distilleries and tasting rooms now open all across the Commonwealth, including several in Southwest Virginia. Each has its own distinct flavor and story, as you’ll see when you visit the following distilleries:   FIVE MILE MOUNTAIN Floyd’s first distillery since prohibition, Five Mile Mountain......

Beautiful Southwest Virginia Is Home to 11 State Parks

Southwest Virginia is within a day’s drive of more than half of the United States population, giving plenty of folks the opportunity to enjoy some of the most beautiful state parks in the country.   At roughly the same size of Rhode Island, scenic Southwest Virginia, which sits among the majestic Appalachian Mountains, covers 19 counties that feature thousands of acres of public land and more outdoor recreational destinations than you can imagine. With a......

Motorcycle Adventures in Southwest Virginia

The route known as the Back of the Dragon has become a top destination for motorcyclists, but any motorists will enjoy the amazing views. Virginia State Parks Sturgis, South Dakota, is what pops into most people’s minds when they think of motorcycle adventures. While this rip roaring party of a motorcycle rally is perhaps the most iconic, it hardly speaks for the lot of ‘em—there are a variety of places and ways to embark on a......

How to Have an Adventurous Weekend in Southwest Virginia

The Virginia Creeper Trail is one of the area’s top destinations for cyclists. The scenic path stretches 34 miles from Whitetop Station to Abingdon. Perry Smyre After the grit and grime, the best way to cap off an epic outdoor adventure is with a little well-deserved pampering. Southwest Virginia offers the best of both worlds—it’s an outdoor lover’s paradise brimming with adventure, from mountain-swaddled lakes to wilderness-cloaked trails to cloud-splitting summits with plenty of epicurean delights,......

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Enewsletter, the boone’s bucket list southwest virginia love road trip.

But they had one BIG area yet to cover — Southwest Virginia. So we sent them on a journey to explore as many LOVEworks as possible west of Roanoke. Find highlights of their trip below and follow them on Instagram to see what other LOVEworks they've visited.

This LOVE journey kicks off in  Olde Towne Pearisburg  where the  LOVEwork in Pearisburg  is a sculpture featuring over 3,500 rocks painted by children ages 4 through 12 in public, private and home schools.

Moving on, head northwest towards  Grundy  to experience the   LOVEwork at Southern Gap Outdoor Adventure . Whether your idea of adventure is exploring the mountains by ATV or mountain bike or kicking back and enjoying the view, this LOVEwork offers options for every adventurer.

Next up is in the town of Pocahontas in Tazewell County. This quaint town is full of LOVE as shown by the  LOVEwork in Historic Pocahontas . This LOVEwork was a town effort and is comprised of donated elements like railroad tracks, wagon wheels, and iron fronts.

Head even farther west to  Dickenson County  to experience the   LOVEwork at Breaks Interstate Park . This LOVEwork highlights the plethora of adventure around the park and the broader Southwest Virginia region. After snapping a picture with this artwork, travel on to the city of Clintwood. Experience spring, summer, fall and winter at the  LOVEwork at the Dickenson County Visitor Center . This LOVEwork features beautiful paintings of each season in Dickenson showcasing the tourism, culture and history of the town.

After lots of travel down windy roads and getting photos with five (or more) LOVEworks, stop for a well-deserved rest at  The Inn at Wise . This historic inn nestled in the heart of the Appalachian mountains offers wonderful accommodations and delicious cuisine. If you’re still up for exploring, head down West Main Street and into town. There you can find charming shops and delightful restaurants.

• Sylvia’s Cafe and Coffee – Pearisburg
• The Palisades Restaurant  – Pearisburg
• Real McCoy Country Store & Kitchen  – Tazewell
• Fisher & Company  – Tazewell
• Donut Diva  – Tazewell
• The Well Coffee Shop  – Tazewell
• Serendipity Cafe and Catering  – Grundy
• Valentino’s  – Dickenson
• Rhododendron Restaurant  – Dickenson
• Ridgeview Deli Mart & Wolfpack Den  – Dickenson
• Moon Dog Pizza  – Wise
• K&E Southern Sweets  – Wise
• Pearisburg Community Market  – Pearisburg
• Giles County Historical Museum  – Pearisburg
• New River Water Trail  – Pearisburg
• Pocahontas, Historical Coal Mining Town  – Tazewell
• Spearhead Trails  – Tazewell
• Grey and Honey  – Tazewell
• Southern Gap Outdoor Adventure  – Grundy
• Trans-American Bike Route  – Dickenson
• Ralph Stanley Museum and Traditional Mountain Music Center  – Dickenson
• Breaks Interstate Park Zip Line  – Dickenson
• Rt. 611 Cumberland Mountain Scenic Drive  – Dickenson

After a good night’s sleep at The Inn at Wise, travel towards the city of  Norton  to visit the  LOVEwork at the Country Cabin . This unique LOVEwork has each letter representing something different. The ‘L’ represents dancing and country music, the ‘O’ represents the cities coal mining heritage, the ‘V’ represents the quilting craft and the ‘E’ represents the country cabin itself. Combined, this LOVEwork offers visitors an all-encompassing summary of the town of Norton.

A quick drive south will take you to the quaint mountain town of  St. Paul  where you’ll stay at  The Western Front Hotel , a lovely new boutique hotel complete with 30 unique rooms. This lodging location features plenty of accommodations like The Roost, a hotel hangout spot, and  ina + forbes , the on-site restaurant offering farm-to-table Appalachian eats. This hotel is pet-friendly as well!

• Fishtales Family Restaurant  – Norton
• Woodbooger Grill  – Norton
• Sugar Hill Brewing Company  – St. Paul
• Fat Boys BBQ  – St Paul
• Ma and Pas Restaurant  – Castlewood
• Flag Rock Recreation Area  – Norton
• Virginia-Kentucky Opry  – Norton
• Ride ATVs on Spearhead Trails  Mountain View Trail System  – St. Paul
• Sugar Hill Loop Trail  – St. Paul
• Clinch River Adventure paddling session  – St. Paul

Kick off day three in  Damascus . Their town’s LOVEwork proudly presides at the  Damascus Old Mill Inn . Located just 20 minutes from historic Abingdon, this Inn offers all the comforts of a bed and breakfast.

Next, travel to the interactive  LOVEwork in Marion , which features a 17-foot long chalk-friendly sign where visitors are encouraged to share what they LOVE about Marion.

From Marion, travel onward towards  Wytheville  and check out the  LOVEwork in the town of Wytheville . This unique artwork shares four different aspects of the local community. Influence of railroad, the Chautauqua Festival, the cross of I-77 and I-81 and the town’s baseball history all come together in a one-of-a-kind artwork to share the character of Wytheville with visitors.

Take a load off at the  Bolling Wilson Hotel , located just two minutes from the nearby LOVEwork. Amid the stunning Jefferson National Forest, the Bolling Wilson Hotel is located steps away from Historic Main Street. It also features a rooftop bar and outdoor dining with a fabulous scenic 360-degree view.

• Mojo’s Trailside Cafe & Coffee House  – Damascus
• Damascus Old Mill Restaurant  – Damascus
• The Black Rooster Restaurant  – Marion
• Wooden Pickle  – Marion
• Wolfe’s BBQ Restaurant and Catering  – Marion
• The Speakeasy  – Marion
• Dip Dog Stand  – Marion
• Graze on Main  – Wytheville
• The Log House Restaurant  – Wytheville
• Moon Dog Brick Oven Pizza  – Wytheville
• Virginia Creeper Trail  – Damascus
• Sundog Outfitters  – Damascus
• Hungry Mother State Park  – Marion
• The Lincoln Theater  – Marion
• Marion Regional Farmers Market  – Marion
• Crystal Springs Recreation Area  – Wytheville
• Beagle Ridge Gardens and Herb Farm  – Wytheville
• Fort Chiswell Animal Park  – Wytheville
• Wohlfahrt Haus Dinner Theatre  – Wytheville

Check out our map of places where you can add more LOVE to your vacation.  Be sure to share your pictures  on social media by tagging @VisitVirginia using the hashtag  #LOVEVA.

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The 20 Most Beautiful Places In Virginia, According To A Local

From sandy beaches to mountain summits to sparkling lakes, Virginia just seems to have it all.

Erin Gifford is a travel and outdoor writer based in Virginia with 20+ years of writing and editing experience. She has also written three guidebooks on hiking trails in Virginia. 

Robbie Caponetto

Virginia has soaring mountains , ocean breezes, gorgeous state parks, and more than 500 miles of the iconic Appalachian Trail. When you want lake life and quaint towns, it's got that, too. In Virginia, you’ll find way more than historic settlements, like Jamestown, colonial architecture, and presidential homes. In fact, there are endless opportunities for exploration all across the Old Dominion State and all of the natural beauty within in.

When you’re ready to discover for yourself the most beautiful places across Virginia, here are the 20 best places to start, as suggested by a local who’s criss-crossed the state more than a few times. 

Molly's Knob

Erin Gifford

The Molly's Knob overlook at Hungry Mother State Park in Marion wows with one of the most breathtaking vistas in the entire state. It’s a fairly steep 1.8-mile hike (one-way) on the Molly’s Knob Trail and Molly’s Vista Trail, but the views across two of the state’s tallest mountains—Mount Rogers and Whitetop Mountain—are unmatched. Take a seat on one of the wooden benches at the overlook—you’ve earned it—and soak it all in.

Breaks Interstate Park

In Southwest Virginia, Breaks Interstate Park is home to the “Grand Canyon of the South,” a five-mile-long gorge cut into Pine Mountain that’s more than 1,650 feet deep. Several overlooks, including Towers Overlook and Stateline Overlook, are easy to reach and boast big south- and west-facing views across the Russell Fork River. In spring and fall, the elk viewing tours are unforgettable.

Chincoteague

VIRGINIA TOURISM CORPORATION/TODD WRIGHT

Chincoteague , a largely unspoiled island on Virginia's Eastern Shore, has long captivated beach-goers with its small-town charm and natural beauty. Known for its wild ponies, book a kayak tour or nature cruise with Assateague Explorer to see ponies up-close at the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge. The wildlife refuge also features miles of scenic hiking and biking trails, as well as the red-and-white striped Assateague Lighthouse.

Courtesy Visit Loudoun

Middleburg exudes a timeless charm, enchanting visitors with its scenic vineyards, rolling hills, and an abundance of green spaces in the heart of Virginia’s wine and horse country. Take a picturesque stroll across this quaint 10-block town, making stops for fashionable boutiques, craft coffee shops, and delicious restaurants, like King Street Oyster Bar. More than a half-dozen tasting rooms call Middleburg home, including Boxwood Estate Winery and Greenhill Vineyards.

Shenandoah National Park

Getty Images/Pierre Leclerc

Shenandoah National Park is a stunner thanks to mountain vistas, rolling green hills, and rural landscapes. Motor along the park’s 105-mile Skyline Drive, which meanders north to south across the spine of the park. More than 75 overlooks and pull-outs reward visitors with gram-worthy views, including spectacularly vibrant foliage in fall. Get in your steps on hiking trails that lead to tumbling waterfalls, summit peaks, and historic homesteads.

Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden

Getty Images/Joe Potato

Richmond’s Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden is an oasis that captivates locals and visitors alike with more than a dozen gardens set across 50 acres. Favorite gardens include Asian Valley, which features East Asian plants and water cascades, and the Louise Cochrane Rose Garden, a spectacle with more than 1,500 rose blooms. There’s also a children’s garden and flower-lined walking paths.

Smith Mountain Lake

Getty Images/Casey Johnson

Set in Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains, Smith Mountain Lake is the state’s second largest lake. It’s a paradise for water enthusiasts thanks to its calm waters and more than 500 miles of shoreline. It’s also the sparkling centerpiece of Smith Mountain Lake State Park, which has miles of hiking trails, a swimming beach, and a family campground. There are also several wineries near the lake, including Hickory Hill Vineyards and Ramulose Ridge Vineyards.

Grayson Highlands State Park

Located in Southwest Virginia, Grayson Highlands State Park wows with grassy balds, high peaks, alpine meadows, and free-roaming wild ponies. While wild ponies are the main attraction, Grayson Highlands is also known for bouldering, fishing, and hiking on the Appalachian Trail. In spring and summer, revel in the bright pink rhododendrons that line the park’s Rhododendron Trail.

Natural Bridge State Park

In Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley, Natural Bridge is the namesake and centerpiece of Natural Bridge State Park . This stunning 215-foot-tall limestone arch was carved over many years by babbling Cedar Creek. Once owned by Thomas Jefferson, this awe-inspiring geological formation has held a spot on the National Register of Historic Places since 1997. A stroll under the bridge yields a surprise, too. George Washington carved his initials into the arch in 1750.

Devil's Bathtub

Devil’s Bathtub is a striking crystal-clear basin that’s known for its waterfall and swimming hole, though be warned, the water is very, very cold. For the adventurous, there are two rope swings. Tucked away in Virginia’s Jefferson National Forest, the vivid blue-green pool is the reward for a two-mile hike (one-way), which includes at least a dozen stream and creek crossings.

Dragon's Tooth

Dragon's Tooth is one-third of an awe-inspiring trifecta of gram-worthy hikes on the Appalachian Trail called the Virginia Triple Crown . This scenic trio includes McAfee Knob and Tinker Cliffs. It’s a 2.4-mile hike to reach the 35-foot-tall rock spire called Dragon’s Tooth, but it’s worth every ounce of your efforts. Enjoy the views across the Catawba Valley from the base of Dragon’s Tooth or climb to the top of the distinctive outcrop for scenic panoramas.

Cape Charles

Set on the southern tip of the peninsula known as Virginia’s Eastern Shore, Cape Charles boasts relaxing vibes and small town appeal. Come for locally-owned boutiques, cozy bed-and-breakfasts, toddler-friendly beaches with gentle waves, seafood restaurants, and scoop shops, like Brown Dog Ice Cream. Cape Charles puts on a show when the sun dips below the horizon and vibrant sunsets in shades of orange and pink paint the sky over the Chesapeake Bay.

Old Town Alexandria

Cedric Angeles

The once bustling port town of Old Town Alexandria evokes charm and history with every step on the cobblestone streets and red brick-lined sidewalks. Pop in and out of art galleries, coffee roasteries, antique jewelry shops, and renowned restaurants, like Vermilion and Vola’s Dockside Grill. Stroll alongside the marina at the historic waterfront or over to Jones Point Park to revel in stunning views across the Potomac River.

Roanoke Star

Perched high atop Mill Mountain, the Roanoke Star is the world’s largest man-made star, standing proud at 100-feet-tall. Some even call the Roanoke Star the Hollywood Sign of the East Coast. The iconic steel star has been welcoming visitors to Roanoke with open arms since late-1949. Hike or drive to the overlook for far-reaching views across the Roanoke Valley. In the evening, the super-size star lights up the night with twinkle lights.

Cumberland Gap National Historical Park

John O'Hagan for Southern Living

The Cumberland Gap, a significant and historic pass through the Appalachian Mountains, is celebrated at Cumberland Gap National Historical Park . This storied gateway to the west sits at the intersection of Virginia, Kentucky, and Tennessee. A winding road leads to Pinnacle Overlook, which is officially in Virginia. The overlook boasts one of the most breathtaking panoramas of the Appalachian Mountains.

Buggs Island Lake

Getty Images/soulofages

Buggs Island Lake , also known as the John H. Kerr Reservoir, straddles the Virginia-North Carolina border. It’s a serene escape known for its expansive, gentle waters. This massive reservoir features more than 800 miles of wooded shoreline, providing an ideal backdrop for camping, fishing, and boating. Nature lovers can explore numerous trails or relax in secluded coves. There are several campgrounds around the lake, as well as Occoneechee State Park , which has cabins, a campground, a boat ramp, and miles of hiking trails.

False Cape State Park

A stone’s throw from the bustling Virginia Beach Boardwalk, False Cape State Park is among the last sections of undeveloped coastline along the Atlantic Ocean. Nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and Back Bay, this gem of a state park features hiking and biking trails, as well as four primitive camping areas—two on the ocean side and two on the bay side. Camp out right on the beach and wake to a glorious sunrise. Snap a photo of the gram-worthy “Southernmost Virginia State Park” buoy before you leave the raw beauty of False Cape State Park.

In Southwest Virginia, Sand Cave is one of the most uniquely beautiful geological formations in the entire state. This 250-foot-wide cave was once a massive rock, but wind eroded the sandstone over many years, yielding this striking natural wonder. However, you’ll need to earn the chance to see this awe-inspiring geological formation with an acre of beach-like sand inside. It’s a nearly four-mile hike (one-way) to reach this unspoiled cave, which also has a small waterfall.

Great Dismal Swamp

Getty Images/Wirestock

In Southeast Virginia, the Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge features a vast, mysterious landscape. It’s home to Lake Drummond, one of two natural lakes in Virginia, as well as some of the oldest and most majestic bald cypress trees in the United States. Bring a bike to pedal 4.5 miles on the Washington Ditch Trail to reach the pier for far-reaching lake views. Adventure Kayak Tours also books guided paddles on this breathtaking freshwater lake.

Westmoreland State Park

On Virgina’s Northern Neck, Westmoreland State Park is known for its stunning sandstone cliffs that tower high above the Potomac River. Bring your own watercraft or rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard at the park for an easy-breezy paddle. After your paddle, hike the 0.6-mile (one-way) Big Meadow Trail to Fossil Beach, a sandy stretch that’s popular with budding paleontologists. More than a few visitors have dug up ancient marine fossils and shark teeth.

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Best places to visit in virginia.

"Virginia is for Lovers" is the state's tourism slogan, and it's not hard to see why. Mountain lovers, animal lovers, history lovers, wine lovers – you name it, you'll find something to love in Virginia . To help you decide where you should plan a trip, U.S. News weighed factors like attractions, accessibility, accommodations and the input of everyday travelers to select the best places to visit in Virginia. Vote for your favorite Virginia vacation below to help us create next year's ranking.

Shenandoah National Park

Williamsburg, virginia beach, chincoteague, alexandria, va, mount vernon, charlottesville, tangier island.

An excellent place to view fall foliage , hike and picnic, Shenandoah National Park stretches across nearly 200,000 acres of protected land in northern Virginia. Skyline Drive is a popular way to see the park – it snakes through the hills and valleys, offering beautiful vantage points and photo opportunities along the way from dozens of different overlooks. Visitors can also take part in ranger programs, which cover everything from stargazing to the park's robust wildlife (hundreds of black bears are known to roam Shenandoah National Park).

Williamsburg is an engaging historical and family-friendly travel destination. Colonial Williamsburg, the world's largest living history museum, transports travelers back in time to experience the 18th century's historic homes, peruse antique wares and soak up the culture. Talented craftspeople and interpreters portraying historical figures help bring the town's history to life, and the Art Museums of Colonial Williamsburg display colonial and contemporary folk art created by local amateur artisans. Meanwhile, Williamsburg's two amusement parks – Busch Gardens and Water Country USA – attract families with kids looking for some outdoor fun.

Home to the site of the last major battle in the Revolutionary War, Yorktown Battlefield, this distinguished Virginia town is highly regarded for its historical significance. You'll surely want to add the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown and the Watermen's Museum to your itinerary, but you should also save time for exploring Riverwalk Landing, a waterfront dining and shopping district that hosts several free events throughout the year. When you need to rest your feet, take a load off at peaceful Yorktown Beach, a 2-acre stretch of sand overlooking the York River.

With multiple districts and beaches, Virginia Beach is sure to offer something for everyone. This coastal city provides plenty of options for both relaxation and entertainment, making it the perfect choice for a romantic getaway or a family trip. Rollerblade down the boardwalk or soak up some rays in the Oceanfront neighborhood, hike or kayak in the Sandbridge area or enjoy some retail therapy before grabbing a bite to eat in the Town Center district. When you're not lounging on the beach or hitting up the trails in First Landing State Park, check out one of Virginia Beach's top-notch museums.

Chincoteague Island welcomes visitors with its scenic, serene coastal beauty and its famous wild ponies. Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge is the main attraction. Here, you'll spot birds and waterfowl in addition to the island's horses. Though these beautiful creatures might look tame, they are still wild animals, so avoid approaching, feeding or touching them. Other popular Chincoteague activities include fishing, kayaking, boating and biking. In summer, you can explore the island via Chincoteague's seasonal trolley service, and when you need to refuel, check out the eateries along Main Street and Maddox Boulevard.

Outdoor and historical attractions are the highlights of Jamestown. Greensprings Interpretive Trail features 3 1/2 miles of hiking and bike paths, while the Jamestown Settlement living history museum offers a look at 17th-century Virginia and the events that paved the way for the first permanent English settlement in the Americas. Don't forget to visit Historic Jamestowne, the original archaeological site where the 1607 settlement was located. Travelers should also pop into the town's Glasshouse to see glassblowing demonstrations and pick up a handblown glass souvenir.

Alexandria's charming atmosphere makes it a must-visit for anyone coming to Virginia. Old Town Alexandria draws visitors in with its historical architecture and abundant shops and restaurants. Peruse the Old Town Farmers' Market in the morning (open every Saturday); then, in the evening, grab a drink at a local Irish pub. Meanwhile, those looking for a spookier glimpse of Old Town's past can sign up for a ghost tour. Plus, sightseers who want to take advantage of Alexandria's proximity to Washington, D.C. can catch a unique view of the nation's capital during a riverboat tour on the Potomac River.

Historic Mount Vernon, situated along the banks of the Potomac River near Washington, D.C., is where you'll find the plantation home of the first president of the United States, George Washington. While here, visitors can walk through Washington's 21-room mansion, enjoy a stroll through the estate's four gardens, learn about the enslaved people who lived on the property at the on-site museum and visit the family's tomb. The popular tourist attraction also hosts events like tea with Martha Washington and Revolutionary War reenactments.

Home to the prestigious University of Virginia, Charlottesville is a fun getaway for wine lovers and history buffs. Rolling countryside and dozens of wineries and vineyards surround the town, and the area's excellent topography leads to some tasty varieties along the Monticello Wine Trail. Visitors should also spend some time walking around the historic Downtown Mall, which features more than 150 shops and restaurants, and touring Monticello, Thomas Jefferson's former home. Time your visit for fall to see Carter Mountain Orchard's colorful foliage and sample delicious apple cider doughnuts.

Spend some time in nature during a trip to Luray. Nestled in the Shenandoah Valley, this town is best known for its Luray Caverns, the largest cave system in the eastern U.S. Visitors flock to this underground wonderland to view its otherworldly limestone chambers, which are filled with stalactites and stalagmites, glassy lakes and wonders like the Great Stalacpipe Organ, the largest musical instrument in the world. Outdoor attractions, such as the Rope Adventure Park, the Garden Maze and the nearby Wisteria Farm & Vineyard, offer countless ways to have fun above ground as well.

The state capital is another Virginia locale steeped in history. Visitors will want to check out American Revolution sites like St. John's Church (where Patrick Henry pleaded "Give me liberty, or give me death!") and attractions like Maymont estate and The American Civil War Museum. But this dynamic city isn't stuck in the past. Explore the eclectic boutiques and trendy cafes in Carytown, or browse the exhibits on display at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. If the weather is warm, head to the Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden to admire the blooms or find a quiet place to relax along the James River.

Only accessible by boat or small plane, this tranquil island in the middle of Virginia's Chesapeake Bay is perfect for travelers who are seeking peace and quiet. The small fishing village is best explored by bike or golf cart, or by kayaking through Tangier's water trails, which is a great way to spot local wildlife. Other must-do experiences include sinking your toes in the sand at unspoiled Tangier Island Beach, sampling fresh seafood and learning about Tangier's history at the Tangier Island Museum and Interpretive Cultural Center.

This small town in Northern Virginia is an intriguing mix of old and new. History lovers come from all over to stand on the hallowed ground of Manassas National Battlefield Park, the site of two major Civil War battles. Meanwhile, Historic Downtown Manassas' tasty restaurants, breweries and antique shops can't be missed. What's more, Manassas is home to a thriving arts scene, boasting several local art galleries and entertainment venues where travelers can attend the ballet or catch a performance by the Manassas Symphony Orchestra.

A city with a Blue Ridge Mountains backdrop, Roanoke features cultural hot spots like art galleries, live music venues, museums and more. After exploring top institutions like the Virginia Museum of Transportation and the Taubman Museum of Art, grab a bite to eat in historic Grandin Village. Chances are you'll also want to explore the area's incredible scenery on a hiking trip (120 miles of the famed Appalachian Trail run through Roanoke), on a bike ride or from the water via canoe or kayak. If you prefer a long, relaxing drive, Blue Ridge Parkway allows you to view the landscape from the comfort of your vehicle.

Middleburg, an easy weekend getaway destination from Washington, D.C., is known for its horses and its wine. Often referred to as "the nation's horse and hunt capital," the town is home to many equestrians and fox hunters. Plus, numerous wineries surround this town, including the popular Chrysalis Vineyards, Boxwood Estate Winery and Greenhill Vineyards. Spend a sunny afternoon strolling along Washington Street, where you'll find a small collection of restaurants, art galleries and boutiques, then retreat to the Salamander Resort & Spa for a delectable meal or spa treatment.

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15 Best Places to Visit in Virginia, According to Locals

V irginia is filled with more than its fair share of amazing places to visit — from creative hubs to natural wonders you won’t find anywhere else.

As someone who spent the first two decades of their life in Virginia, only to find themselves moving back after 10 years away, I can attest that it’s a state with a seemingly endless number of places to explore. My childhood was spent in the Blue Ridge Mountains — camping in the Peaks of Otter and canoeing down the James River — and my college years brought me to Williamsburg, where history and higher education go hand in hand with waterfront views. Now, I’m a resident of Charlottesville, a small city within driving distance of Shenandoah National Park and Virginia’s Wine Country. 

“Virginia has everything that you could ever ask for,” says George Hodson, CEO of Veritas Vineyard and Winery in Afton. “For me, it is the natural resources… rivers, lakes, oceans, and mountains — and four seasons to enjoy each of them in.” Matilda Reuter Engle, proprietor of Middleburg Hospitality and general manager of The Red Fox Inn & Tavern and Glenstone Gardens , has the same mindset when it comes to the Old Dominion’s charm: “Virginians take great pride in their connection to nature, reflected in the state's agricultural heritage, rural traditions, and a commitment to preserving open spaces.”

George Hodson is the CEO of Veritas Vineyard and Winery in Afton, Virginia.

Matilda Reuter Engle is the proprietor of Middleburg Hospitality and general manager of The Red Fox Inn & Tavern and Glenstone Gardens .

No matter which region you’re traveling to, make sure you experience some of this unmatched natural beauty, as well as the small towns, culturally rich cities, and unforgettable sights that set this state apart. Read on to discover the best places to visit in Virginia. 

Related: 15 Best Weekend Getaways in Virginia, According to Locals

Natural Bridge

Travelers of all ages will want to make their way to Natural Bridge. Located just south of Lexington, it’s home to Natural Bridge State Park and the Caverns at Natural Bridge . The former, which is a designated National Historic Landmark, is known for its 200-foot-tall stone archway; the latter allows visitors to descend more than 34 stories into the Earth as they admire stalactites, stalagmites, and other underground wonders.

James River

The largest river in Virginia, the James starts in the Appalachian Mountains and flows into the Chesapeake Bay. “It's an amazing place to get outside and be outside,” says Hodson, who recommends getting on the water in Scottsville with James River Runners .

Blue Ridge Parkway

“If you want a beautiful drive, [the] Blue Ridge Parkway offers a scenic trip on the way to Shenandoah National Park,” says Reuter Engle. As you start planning your drive, download the Blue Ridge Parkway Travel Planner app; this is super helpful if you’re unsure what each region and section of the parkway offers. 

Related: 8 Blue Ridge Parkway Camping Spots — and Tips to Help Plan Your Trip

Virginia’s capital city has something for everyone — from history lovers and art fanatics to foodies and outdoorsy types. If you’re interested in the beverage scene, however, Hodson suggests checking out Scott's Addition , which he describes as a “playground for big kids.” Here, you’ll find old factories and warehouses converted into taprooms, cideries, and distilleries.

Smith Mountain Lake

You may have heard it described as the “ Lake Tahoe of the East ,” but Smith Mountain Lake definitely has its own personality and appeal. The reservoir is the second-largest body of water in the state, with 500 miles of shoreline and two dozen islands, and it provides plenty of room for water activities — including swimming, boating, fishing, and various water sports.

Monticello Wine Trail

Hodson calls this area of the world — one he’s very much familiar with — “a world-class wine region with so many great winery experiences, all within a 30-minute drive from Charlottesville.” The Monticello Wine Trail spans 40 vineyards, with each offering wine tastings paired with gorgeous Virginia views.

Historic Triangle

The three points on the Historic Triangle — Williamsburg, Jamestown, and Yorktown — make for an educational and beautiful weekend getaway. Along the route, also known as the Colonial Parkway, you’ll have the chance to visit Historic Jamestowne, the Jamestown Settlement, Colonial Williamsburg, Yorktown Battlefield, and the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown.

Crozet is “still a quiet little Virginia town, but [it’s] on the rise,” says Hodson. Plus, it’s a great day trip from Charlottesville. As far as an ideal itinerary, Hodson has you covered. “Grab a coffee and a bagel at Praha Bakery … head off to hike Blue Hole from the Sugar Hollow reservoir, then come back to downtown Crozet and treat yourself to a sauna and cold plunge at Reset Crozet .” Finally, he says, “Have dinner at the legendary Fardowners .”

Reuter Engle, whose family has been in Middleburg for generations, admits that while she may be biased, the historic town has plenty to do and see in every season. Her must-experience list includes: “ Christmas in Middleburg’s traditional hunt parade that draws thousands each year; the Middleburg Film Festival in the fall; Historic Garden Week in the spring; and equestrian activities galore in the fall and spring, such as the Middleburg Spring Races, the Virginia Gold Cup, and the Upperville Colt & Horse Show.”

Travelers may know Lexington for its association with Virginia Military Institute (VMI) and Washington & Lee University, but it also boasts one of the most interesting outdoor entertainment venues. Once an abandoned limestone quarry and kiln, Lime Kiln Theater welcomes 675 guests to enjoy shows featuring bluegrass, folk, and other music genres surrounded by trees, natural stone walls, and the stars overhead. The 2024 season will be announced in March.

Shenandoah River

“For the water sports enthusiast seeking an exhilarating experience, the Shenandoah River is a must-visit destination,” says Reuter Engle. Rafting, tubing, and kayaking are all possibilities, and she suggests heading to the Harpers Ferry Adventure Center “for both adventurous and family-friendly options.”

Virginia Beach

Virginia has some of the country’s oldest mountains, but you can’t forget about its oceanfront destinations — namely, Virginia Beach. “I grew up a surfer kid at the beach, and I feel so at home there,” says Hodson, sharing that the ViBe Creative District , in particular, is notable for its “great coffee shops and restaurants.” He recommends grabbing a drink or a bite at Three Ships Coffee and The Pink Dinghy, which sit right next to one another.

Ashby Gap and Sky Meadows State Park

“Just about an hour outside of Washington, D.C., these two spots on either side of Paris, Virginia are perfect for experiencing the natural beauty of our state with a good hike or walk outside,” explains Reuter Engle. Sky Meadows State Park is especially beautiful during the fall when foliage is at its peak. While in the area, she recommends stopping at The Ashby Inn for lunch and picking up local produce at Hollin Farms .

Bath County

Just like the city of Bath in England, Bath County, Virginia gets its name from its natural healing waters. You can experience them for yourself by making a reservation at the recently renovated Warm Springs Pools , part of The Omni Homestead Resort . Travelers interested in the more agricultural side of the county can opt to stay at Apple Horse Farm , a sustainable cattle and pig farm with a standalone cabin available for short-term rentals.

Shenandoah National Park

Reuter Engle says travelers can expect “picturesque hiking” in Shenandoah National Park, where 500 miles of trails lead hikers to waterfalls, scenic landscapes, and remnants of pioneer history. One of the most popular paths is Old Rag, a 9.1-mile loop trail that’s labeled as “difficult.” If you can handle a bit of rock scrambling, though, the views are completely worth the climb.

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Read the original article on Travel & Leisure .

Cicada map 2024: See where to find Brood XIX and XIII − and where they've already been spotted

For many Americans, the cicadas are here .

Trillions of periodical cicadas are already emerging in a rare, two brood event across multiple states , with more expected to come in the following weeks. Thanks to warm temperatures and good conditions, these 13- or 17-year cicadas are emerging from their underground habitats to eat, mate and die, making a whole lot of noise in the process.

Broods XIX and XIII have not emerged together since 1803, and after this year, won't emerge together again until 2245. While they are largely in different states, they are both emerging in parts of Illinois and Iowa.

So if you've seen one cicada or hundreds of cicadas, here's where you can expect to see more this year.

Are cicadas dangerous? Busting myths on the harmfulness of the noisy pests.

Are cicadas already out in 2024?

Adult periodical cicadas from Brood XIX have been spotted by users in multiple states across the Southeast and Midwest including in Missouri, Arkansas, Oklahoma, Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Tennessee, Kentucky, Virginia and Illinois, according to  Cicada Safari , a cicada tracking app developed by Mount St. Joseph University in Cincinnati, Ohio.

Through Cicada Safari, users can confirm their sightings of cicadas with pictures, look at a map of other cicada sightings, join a leaderboard with other users and learn more information about cicadas.

2024 cicada map: Check out where Broods XIII, XIX are projected to emerge

The two cicada broods are projected to emerge in a combined 17 states across the South and Midwest. They emerge once the soil eight inches underground reaches 64 degrees, expected to begin in many states in May and lasting through late June.

The two broods  last emerged together in 1803 , when Thomas Jefferson was president.

What is a brood?

According to the  University of Connecticut , broods are classified as "all periodical cicadas of the same life cycle type that emerge in a given year."

A brood of cicadas is made up of different species of the insect that have separate evolutionary histories. These species may have joined the brood at different times or from different sources. These different species are lumped together under the brood because they are in the same region and emerge on a common schedule.

Why do cicadas make so much noise?

You'll have to thank the male cicadas for all that screeching. Male cicadas synchronize their calls and produce congregational songs, according to  Britannica , which establish territory and attract females. There is also a courting call that they make before mating.

Unluckily for us, the 13-year and 17-year brood cicadas  are the loudest , partially because of the sheer number of them that emerge at once.

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The Picture Show

Photos: see the northern lights from rare solar storm.

Geoff Brumfiel

Christchurch, New Zealand: People look at the Aurora Australis, also known as the Southern Lights, in Rolleston on May 11, 2024. Sanka Vidanagama/AFP/Getty Images hide caption

The largest geomagnetic storm in nearly two decades is hitting Earth's atmosphere . It's producing a beautiful glow in the sky all over the world.

A sunspot has sent a stream of charged particles towards Earth.

As those particles hit the Earth's atmosphere they will be heated and start glowing producing beautiful aurora.

South looks north, as solar storm brings auroras

Lisa Upton is with the Southwest Research Institute. Social media is already filling with photos from places like Finland, Russia, Germany and New Zealand, which catches the same effect in the southern hemisphere. It's not clear how far down in the U.S. the aurora will spread, but Upton is keeping an eye out in Colorado.

Space weather forecasters expect the solar storm to peak overnight, but it will last throughout the weekend.

Brunswick, Maine: The northern lights flare in the sky over a farmhouse, late Friday, May 10, 2024. Robert F. Bukaty/AP hide caption

Brunswick, Maine: The northern lights flare in the sky over a farmhouse, late Friday, May 10, 2024.

Estacada, Ore.: In this image taken with a long exposure, cars pass by as people look at the night sky towards the northern lights, or Aurora Borealis, on Friday, May 10, 2024, in Estacada, Ore. Jenny Kane/AP hide caption

Lake Berryessa, Calif.: The blinking lights of a plane streak through the aurora borealis, also known as the northern lights, which is visible on May 11, 2024. Carlos Avila Gonzalez/San Francisco Chronicle/Getty Images hide caption

London, Ontario: People stop along a country road near London, Ontario to watch the Northern lights or aurora borealis during a geomagnetic storm on May 10, 2024. Geoff Robins/AFP/Getty Images hide caption

Brandenburg, Germany: Light green and slightly reddish auroras glow in the night sky. Patrick Pleul/dpa/picture alliance/Getty Images hide caption

Brandenburg, Germany: Light green and slightly reddish auroras glow in the night sky.

Whitley Bay, England: People visit St Mary's lighthouse in Whitley Bay to see the aurora borealis, commonly known as the northern lights. Ian Forsyth/Getty Images hide caption

Crosby Beach, Liverpool, England: The aurora borealis, also known as the northern lights, glow on the horizon at Another Place by Anthony Gormley. Peter Byrne/PA Images/Getty Images hide caption

Crosby Beach, Liverpool, England: The aurora borealis, also known as the northern lights, glow on the horizon at Another Place by Anthony Gormley.

Saxony-Anhalt, Schierke, Germany: Northern lights can be seen from the Brocken. The natural spectacle is particularly intense on Saturday night. Matthias Bein/dpa/picture alliance/Getty Images hide caption

Rochester, N.Y: Northern Lights light up the sky on May 11, 2024. Lokman Vural Elibol/Anadolu/Getty Images hide caption

Hesse, Germany: Northern lights appear in the night sky over the Pferdskopf near Treisberg in the Hochtaunus district of Hesse. Lando Hass/dpa/picture alliance/Getty Images hide caption

Mount Mitchell, N.C.: Unusual sun activity created a G5 Geostorm on Earth sparks northern lights on May 10, 2024. Peter Zay/Anadolu/Getty Images hide caption

London, Ontario: Northern lights or aurora borealis illuminate the night sky near London, Ontario, during a geomagnetic storm on May 10, 2024. Geoff Robins/AFP/Getty Images hide caption

Debrad, Slovakia: Northern lights illuminate the sky May 11, 2024. Robert Nemeti/Anadolu/Getty Images hide caption

Eindhoven, Ukraine: Northern lights illuminate the sky in Eindhoven, Ukraine, May 10, 2024. Nikos Oikonomou/Anadolu/Getty Images hide caption

Liseleje, Denmark: Northern lights illuminate the sky in Liseleje, Denmark on May 11, 2024. Mohamed El-Shemy/Anadolu/Getty Images hide caption

Markville, Minnesota: The northern lights glow in the sky over St. Croix State Forest late Friday, May 10, 2024. Mark Vancleave/AP hide caption

Donetsk Oblast, Ukraine: Northern lights light up the sky May 11, 2024. Diego Herrera Carcedo/Anadolu/Getty Images hide caption

Skidmore, Missouri: Old tombstones stand against the northern lights at a cemetery early Saturday, May 11, 2024. Charlie Riedel/AP hide caption

Middletown, California: Northern lights illuminate the night sky over a camper's tent north of San Francisco on May 11, 2024. Josh Edelson/AFP/Getty Images hide caption

Middletown, California: Northern lights illuminate the night sky over a camper's tent north of San Francisco on May 11, 2024.

Estacada, Oregon: In this image taken with a long exposure, people look at the night sky towards the northern lights, or Aurora Borealis, on Friday, May 10, 2024. Jenny Kane/AP hide caption

• northern lights
• geomagnetic storms
• aurora bourealis