ABINGDON, VIRGINIA–MAY 2025–Southwest Virginia has some of the most stunning views in the country. The region’s 19 counties, covering 8,600 square miles of diverse landscape, are home to the Appalachian Mountains, the Blueridge Parkway and 11 amazing state parks. The region has miles of the Appalachian Trail, picturesque wildlife management areas, biking and all-terrain trails, scenic lakes and much more. All this is located within a day’s drive of more than half of the United States population, making the trip – and the views – an easy escape to enjoy.

While outdoor adventure, even hard-core adventure, is popular here, visitors who want to take in the views in comfort will also find this to be the ideal region to explore. These experiences are as diverse as the region itself and many have their own stories to go along with the views.

• The Perch Rooftop Terrace, atop the Bolling Wilson Hotel (170 East Main Street, Wytheville, Virginia 24382; 276-223-2333), is the perfect downtown spot to enjoy an evening sunset with views of the Blueridge Mountains. Below, the hotel pays homage to First Lady and Wytheville native Edith Bolling Wilson and offers luxurious guest rooms and fine dining. 
• Big Walker Lookout (8711 Stoney Fork Road, Wytheville, Virginia 24382; 276-663-4016) is the oldest private attraction in Virginia and at an elevation of 3,405 feet, it is also the highest. The 100-foot lookout tower offers spectacular views of the Appalachian Mountains and Virginia farmlands. The country store features the work of regional artists as well as homemade fudge and ice cream.
• The Tasting Room at Nicewonder Vineyards (22091 Nicewonder Drive, Bristol, Virginia 24202; 276-299-3260) is a lovely outpost where afternoon views of the 13-acre vineyard can be enjoyed with a glass of locally made wine and live entertainment. The award-winning vineyard makes all its wines onsite, from vine to bottle.
• High Knob Observation Tower (1256 Spruce Avenue NW, Norton, Virginia 24273; 276-679-8370) is one of the highest points in Southwest Virginia. At over 4,200 feet, it offers panoramic views of five states on a clear day. It is a favorite spot for sunrise and sunset photos as well as birdwatching.

The views from Southwest Virginia’s trails can be enjoyed via a variety of means.

This is home to the famed Virginia Creeper Trail (Abingdon Trailhead: 300 Green Spring Road, Abingdon, Virginia 24210). The Hall of Fame trail offers options from an easy two-hour ride to an all-day, 34-mile excursion. It is most popular for cyclists but hiking and horseback riding are also permitted. Named for the 1880s steam engines that traversed the mountain grades, the trail includes 47 original trestle bridges and amazing views of Southwest Virginia rivers, forests and farmlands. (The trail section from Damascus to Whitetop is currently closed due to damage from hurricane Helene. Check local sources for updates.) Adventure Damascus Bicycle & Outdoor Co. (128 West Laurel Avenue, Damascus, Virginia 24236; 276-475-6262) is an excellent source for gear and information for those hitting the trail.

In Damascus, the Creeper Trail meets the Appalachian Trail. An easily accessible and extraordinarily scenic section of the famed hiking trail runs through Southwest Virginia. Whether for a day hike or overnight excursion, the experience is sure to make memories for a lifetime. The trail winds through Grayson Highlands State Park (829 Grayson Highland Lane, Mouth of Wilson, Virginia 24363; 276-579-7092), well known for its year-round recreation opportunities. Its trails provide some of the best views in Southwest Virginia, from sights along the trails to enjoying unmatched views of Mount Rogers and Whitetop Mountain, Virginia’s two highest mountains. (Check with the park regarding availability of amenities and seasonal opening dates of facilities.)

The Virginia portion of the Blue Ridge Parkway is fully open and offers an unbeatable scenic drive. The parkway spans miles of Southwest Virginia, including Galax, Hillsville and Floyd, and is second to none. The views, from simple roadside beauty to stunning scenic overlooks, constantly change with the seasons. Chestnut Cove Overlook (Milepost 398.3) offers an outstanding long range vista as well as nearby picnic areas. The options for views off the road vary immensely. Some choose to grab the binoculars and explore any of 30 different paths throughout the region on the famed Virginia Bird and Wildlife Trail’s Mountain Region Loops. Others prefer to enjoy the luxurious facilities at the exclusive Primland Resort (2000 Busted Rock Road, Meadows of Dan, Virginia, 24120; 855-876-6593). The 12,000-acre mountain estate includes a lodge, tree houses, trails, streams and horseback riding.

Stretching from Marion to Tazewell, Virginia, the Back of the Dragon (592 Main Street, Tazewell, Virginia 24651; 276-979-4288) is known for its 438 curves along 32 miles of roadway with three mountain crossings. Climbing to an elevation of 3,500 feet, there are plenty of landscape views to take in. Along the way is Hungry Mother State Park (2854 Park Boulevard, Marion, Virginia 24354; 276-781-7400), one of Virginia’s most popular parks for family getaways. Hungry Mother Lake is its centerpiece, with a sandy beach and iconic dive tower on its 108-acre lake. A hike to Molly’s Knob reveals amazing sites from one of the premier lookout points in the park.

There are beautiful lakes in the region, as well. One favorite, Laurel Bed Lake (Route 747 at the Clinch Mountain Wildlife Management Area entrance; 276-944-3434), sits atop Clinch Mountain, covers about 330 acres and is surrounded by woodlands and spectacular views.

State parks have unique features that draw large numbers of visitors each year. Natural Tunnel State Park’s (1420 Natural Tunnel Parkway, Duffield, Virginia 24244; 276-940-2674) namesake is more than 850 feet long and 10 stories high and was naturally carved through a limestone ridge over thousands of years. There is both an overlook and chairlift access to the mouth of the tunnel. New River Trail State Park (116 Orphanage Drive, Max Meadows, Virginia 24360; 276-699-6778) is a 57-mile-long park that follows an abandoned railroad line and parallels the scenic and historic New River for 39 miles, with a trail for hiking, biking and horseback riding. Breaks Interstate Park (627 Commission Circle, Breaks, Virginia 24607; 276-865-4413, ext. 3201) is home to the Breaks Canyon, known as the Grand Canyon of the South, which is one of the deepest gorges east of the Mississippi River. In addition to the rugged cliffs, roaring rivers and dense forests, the park also offers a surprising wildlife viewing experience. Elk Tours allow visitors to see the majestic re-introduced species in the park.

If you go

Everyone knows Virginia is for lovers and there is no more visible proof of that than the variety of LOVEworks on display throughout Southwest Virginia. The signs vary in materials and themes and are showcased in a variety of settings. Whether viewed at the historic Damascus Old Mill Inn (215 West Imboden Street, Damascus, Virginia 24236; 276-475-3745), on the bank of Laurel Creek, toasting with a glass of wine, or near a relaxing campsite at Fancy Gap Cabins and Campground (202595 Blue Ridge Parkway, Fancy Gap, Virginia 24328; 276-730-7154), each LOVE sign is a unique sight. There are even road trips like Finding the LOVE in the Blue Ridge Highlands and LOVEworks on the Western Front, designed to maximize the views.

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DAWSONVILLE, GEORGIA–MARCH 2024–Want a weekend getaway that’s not far away? Dawsonville, in the foothills of the North Georgia mountains, is only about an hour north of Atlanta and two hours south of Chattanooga and is filled with things to do and places to totally relax. This getaway destination satisfies serious shoppers, wilderness adventurers and everyone in between. From power shopping at North Georgia Premium Outlets to power racing at Atlanta Motorsports Park, from heart-pounding whitewater and hiking to soul-soothing fly fishing and waterfalls, Dawsonville offers plenty of exploration.

Where to Stay

First, pick a place to stay that sets the mood. Northeast of Dawsonville, families and romantics prefer to be surrounded by spectacular mountain terrain at Amicalola Falls State Park & Lodge, where almost every room has a view and other accommodations include cabins, campsites and four completely furnished Safari Tents for glamping. A nature lover’s wonderland, it’s only eight miles from the Appalachian Trail and within the Chattahoochee National Forest. Some never leave the property, as there’s on site dining, zip lining, archery, hatchet-throwing and guided hikes to Amicalola Falls – a magnificent 729-foot waterfall that’s the third-highest cascading waterfall east of the Mississippi River and one of Georgia’s Seven Natural Wonders (418 Amicalola Falls State Park Rd, Dawsonville, Georgia 30534; 706-265-4703)

Georgia’s only backcountry lodge, the Len Foote Hike Inn, is accessible to day and overnight guests only by a trail etched in the Chattahoochee National Forest. Starting from the top of the falls at Amicalola Falls State Park & Lodge, the five-mile hike has its rewards: mountain high country, forested ridges and valleys and on a clear day, a view of the Atlanta skyline from one of the lookout points. The Hike Inn is an eco-beacon of rugged comfort and sustainable practices where bunkhouse beds, rustic baths, delicious communal meals, Appalachian Trail memorabilia and camaraderie await. (accessed via Amicalola Falls State Park and Lodge)

More lodging options: National Forest Service camping, campgrounds, family- and group-sized vacation rental homes, even a luxury treehouse with bath. Brand-name, convenient accommodations are also located near major highways and the Georgia 400 shopping corridor. https://www.destinationdawsonville.com/where-to-stay/

Art and Shopping

Dawsonville’s shopping treasures require more than a day trip. North Georgia Premium Outlets (800 Hwy 400 South, Dawsonville, Georgia 30534; (706) 216-3609) features more than 120 discount designer [DH2] goods and luxury brand stores alone, but that’s just the beginning of the antiques, boutiques and local merchants treasure hunt. Around Back at Rocky’s Place Folk Art Gallery is a garden and gallery of one-of-a-kind pieces from hundreds of sought-after Southern artists, including face jugs not found in museums and the largest-anywhere collection of art by John “Cornbread” Anderson. Spark your own creativity with pottery and canvas painting projects at The Pearce Creative, and visit the Bowen Center for the Arts, where you’ll find three galleries that display 12 art shows each year, fun classes, tea parties and concerts. It’s a former rock school developed during the 1930s as part of FDR’s Public and Civil Works Administrations. (334 Highway 9 North, Dawsonville, Georgia 30534; 706-216-2787)

For flower and garden aficionados, family farm outings and other outdoor spring through fall activities, go to Dawsonville: Pumpkin Patches, Haunting Tales, Family Farms in the North Georgia Mountains – Travel Media Press Room. Waterfall lovers will find their bliss here.

Guys getaways

Besides golf (two courses) and convenient access to Lake Lanier, Dawsonville is a down-to-earth guy getaway destination for hunting and fishing, whitewater rafting and lazy paddles. Etowah Valley Game Preserve is open for Quail, Chukka and Pheasant hunting October 1st through March 31st. (120 Leon Jones Road, Dawsonville, Georgia 30534; 678-410-0983), while Etowah Valley Sporting Clays is a year-round immersion in clays courses, trap, skeet and stand shooting, along with gun rentals and ammunition, lessons and a unique Amish-style clubhouse. (619 Sporting Hill Drive, Dawsonville, Georgia 30534; 706-265-1611)

Dawsonville is best known for its moonshine-to-motorsports history. Moonshine running during Prohibition nearly 100 years ago grew into today’s NASCAR racing, and the story is authentically told at The Georgia Racing Hall of Fame and Museum, a sprawling and well-designed tribute to the early greats through Bill Elliott, better known as “Awesome Bill from Dawsonville,” and his son Chase Elliott. (415 Highway 53 East, Dawsonville, Georgia, 30534; 706-216-7223) It’s a dazzling audio-visual immersion with vintage videos, impressive stock and moonshine cars and tons of trophies and artifacts. Next door is the newest location of Grandaddy Mimm’s Distilling Co., where you can hear live music while sipping high-quality, small-batch five-year barrel-aged whiskey, handcrafted moonshine, vodka and beer. To complete the authentic experience, head to the town square’s unofficial auto racing headquarters, the Dawsonville Pool Room for breakfast, lunch or dinner and more eye-opening memorabilia, where Elliott victories are celebrated with a screaming “si-reen.” (9 Bill Elliott Street, Dawsonville, Georgia 30534; 706-265-2792). Watch the races or put your own pedal to the metal at Atlanta Motorsports Park, a world class, Formula 1 style venue for high performance cars, motorcycles and karts. (20 Duck Thurmond Road, Dawsonville, Georgia 30534; 678-381-8527) For more on racing and history, go to www.travelmediapressroom.com/2024/01/22/the-race-is-on-for-dawsonville

Dining

Dawsonville has dining covered, from juicy steaks to succulent BBQ ribs, sushi to down-home Southern cooking, pizza to Mexican. Big D’s BBQ for, of course, barbecue but also much more, and Papa’s Place for down home Southern. Try Blue Bicycle for inventive French cuisine with Southern touches. Centered around the Georgia 400 shopping corridor are plenty of tried-and-true restaurant chains and fast-food restaurants, from The Varsity Jr. to coffee stops.

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HENRY COUNTY, GEORGIA—DECEMBER 2020—Folks are scampering to find road trips that offer fun, excitement and adventure without breaking the bank. Thirty minutes south of Atlanta, Henry County is poised to offer all these elements plus a culture of unique delights that the entire family will enjoy. Find out why Henry County is a hidden gem amongst Georgia communities.

A visit to the Army Aviation Heritage Foundation and Flying Museum (next to the EchoPark Speedway) is in order for any group touring this destination. The Hampton, Georgia, Legacy Chapter offers free hangar tours and there’s ample opportunity to get up close and personal with elements of Army Aviation like the helicopter ride program. In finding ways to connect the public to the American soldier, the AAHF has created patriotic flying presentations, aircraft and equipment displays alongside the ride program which allows folks a chance to take flight in a Bell UH-1H or Bell AH-1 Cobra helicopter piloted by a military veteran. (Note: rides are currently grounded until February 2021 so be sure and check the website if you are interested in a ride.) Don’t miss a chance to wander the free Flying Museum for an education experience through narrated static displays. Before stopping by, please call ahead to make an appointment for the complimentary tour. 

Be sure and check out Heritage Park Veterans Museum in McDonough where our nation’s history is promoted in an educational way to help future generations understand military significance through the display of artifacts and information dating back to WWI, as explained by the military veterans who volunteer as guides. Visitors will see a meaningful collection of uniforms, equipment, supplies and personal belongings on display thanks to many generous benefactors in search of ways to keep a family member’s military experience alive. Guests hear the soldiers’ stories, often by name, learning more about the war or battle through their personal experiences. Free admission (but please consider a contribution) also allows for a look at real-life military aviation thanks to a Huey combat helicopter on the side lawn. Take home a souvenir from the Ship’s Store and don’t skip the Wall of Honor room recognized by Gold Star Mothers. The room houses pictures of fallen soldiers and is a place to remember, honor and reflect. This is a special room as it is the only memorial of its kind outside of a military installation allowing family members and the public free and easy access. Other prominent exhibits/displays include the granite Veterans Wall of Honor located just up the hill from the museum and honoring veterans from all conflicts, the Veterans Walk of Honor paved with inscribed bricks and the POW/MIA Tribute. 

Continue exploring the area and take a self-guided tour along Henry County’s Artisan Trail, a collection of places featuring artisan goods and art throughout the area. Experience agritourism at Southern Belle Farm and other area farms. Delight in custom barnwood furniture, leather goods and more at area retailers. Satisfy a craving at local restaurants like Drip-Thru Coffee and Made Fresh Juice Co. Take home a Georgia-made souvenir as a reminder of your getaway.

Get outdoors and breathe the fresh air at Panola Mountain State Park in Stockbridge. Panola Mountain is a granite outcrop known as a monadnock and is similar to Stone Mountain and Arabia Mountain. Activities include hiking, archery, tree climbing, birding, geocaching and so much more for your family to love about the great outdoors. Panola Mountain additionally has a designation as a conservation area, home to rare plant life. The mountain itself is only accessible with a guide for this reason so that protection may be maintained for these plants. The Park’s ecosystem is pristine and your family will no doubt enjoy adding this venue to the “Must Do” list for Henry County travel.

NASCAR anyone? EchoPark Speedway (formerly known as the Atlanta Speedway) in Hampton is the state’s only NASCAR track offering year-round fun for motorsport aficionados as well as people interested in learning more about the sport. EchoPark Speedway sits on about 850 acres and hosts the NASCAR Cup Series annually. Aside from that, the track plays host to Monster Jam and the Georgia State Fair among other events. Take a track tour or even a few laps around the track in the Speedway van with a behind-the-scenes peek at Petty Garden, the garages, Victory Lane and more! Two races are planned for 2024. Fun Fact: Richard Petty’s final race was at EchoPark Speedway and Jeff Gordon’s first race was as well, and incidentally, both phenomenal events were in the same year—1992.

Finally, Floyd Chapel Baptist Church is a great, history-filled stop to put on your touring list. Located in Stockbridge, Floyd Chapel Baptist Church has long since been recognized as a haven for black worshippers. Rev. Martin Luther King, Sr. worshipped at this church with his mother Delia Lindsay King during his childhood. Later King was ordained and preached his first sermon at Floyd Chapel. In 2015, Stockbridge unveiled the MLK Sr. Heritage Trail and a marker stands in front of Floyd Chapel honoring his legacy. Learn more about the King family legacy by viewing a commemorative plaque located at the Stockbridge City Hall close-by. The church is not currently open for tours, but visitors can attend worship services on Sundays.

Glam up your winter with an affordable getaway exploring unique Georgia cities in Henry County. For more information and help with planning, head over to VisitHenryCountygeorgia.com. 

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River relaxation

The Toccoa River offers crystal clear, cool flowing waters ideal for trout fishing and serves as a kayaking and canoe trail, as well as a pathway for tubers. Horseshoe Bend Park offers easy points of access to the river. Jon Ron Toccoa River Outfitters (15 Black Ankle Creek Road, Cherry Log, Georgia 30522) and Blue Ridge Mountain Kayaking (56 North River Road, Blue Ridge, Georgia 30513) provide equipment rentals and shuttle service.

Float the day away with a tubing adventure. Tubes are available through several outfitters, including Toccoa Valley Campground & Tubing (11481 Aska Road, Blue Ridge, Georgia 30513), Toccoa River Tubing (340 Toccoa Avenue, McCaysville, Georgia 30555) and Rolling Thunder Tubing (20 Hughes Street, McCaysville, Georgia 30555).

Eventually, the Toccoa River becomes the Ocoee River, crossing the Tennessee state line. Rapid lovers travel from far and wide to paddle these white waters. Choose a local guide company to help you steer the wild currents aboard a raft. Or, if you’re a thrill-seeker, journey to Ocoee River where the waters come alive in the warmer months. For a printable copy of Water Sports Adventures–Guides & Outfitters, click here.

Need equipment or extra assistance before diving in? Cohutta Fishing Company (490 East Main Street, Blue Ridge, Georgia 30513) hosts guided wade trips and float trips on both the head waters and the tail waters of the Toccoa River, as well as private waters. The Cohutta Fishing Company carries the best fishing gear and accessories and all their flies are tied by local guides and retired fishing enthusiasts. The outfitter also offers fly-tying and fly-fishing classes. Other guide services include Appalachian Anglers, Fly Fish Blue Ridge and Fly Fishing North Georgia.

Nearby, Noontootla Creek Farms (3668 Newport Road, Blue Ridge, Georgia 30513), gives visitors another option for river adventure with two miles of guided trophy fly-fishing, as well as opportunities to explore by land with guided and unguided quail hunts and a sporting clay course. Guests can extend the experience with an overnight stay in the farmhouse-style lodging.

Lake life

Take to the waters of beautiful Lake Blue Ridge. Rent a pontoon boat at Lake Blue Ridge Marina (335 Marina Drive, Blue Ridge, Georgia 30513) or let the experts guide you–Capt’n Joe’s Lake Adventures offers tours, private and specialty charters. Rent kayaks or stand-up paddle boards from Lake Blue Ridge Outfitters (26 Bypass Road, Morganton, Georgia 30560).

After a day on the water, treat taste buds to lunch or dinner on the lake at the Boat Dock Bar and Grill. Enjoy scrumptious waterfront favorites like loaded nachos, juicy cheeseburgers and shrimp tacos. Adults can wash it down with libations from the extensive beer, wine and fruity cocktail list. On the weekends, indulge all the senses as lively music fills the warm summer air. For Lake Blue Ridge Marina information, visit LakeBlueRidgeMarina.com.

Make trails

The hiking trails of Fannin County include some of the most notable in the United States. Two of the greatest outdoor adventures in the world, the Appalachian Trail and the Benton MacKaye Trail, begin in Fannin County at the top of Springer Mountain. Those who prefer adventure on dry land can independently explore area hiking trails that lead to waterfalls, using this easy-to-access guide. Local trail favorites include Fall Branch Falls and Long Creek Falls. Located in the Chilhowee Recreation Area of the Cherokee National Forest, Benton Falls is a relatively easy waterfall hike, too. Families can select trails that range from easy to moderate to difficult to find the right hike for the whole crew. For a waterfall and trail guide, visit: www.BlueRidgeountains.com/what_to_do.html.

Scenic drive

If taking in the mountain scenery from the comfort of your car is more your speed, explore these six scenic driving routes that let you escape into the wilderness, experience town and country and drink in mountaintop vistas.

Where to eat: Curbside and al fresco dining

Quell hunger pangs with waterside dining in nearby McCaysville. Try curbside family meals from Burra Burra on the River (100 Blue Ridge Drive, McCaysville, Georgia 30555), where you can dig into a variety of American food ranging from Sweet Potato Fries to sandwiches like the Old Line Railroad Burger with Black Angus beef soaked in a whiskey glaze, thick cut bacon, caramelized onions, cheddar cheese and lettuce all atop a brioche bun. End the evening in a sweet way with a riverside ice cream treat from Happy Bear Café (100 Blue Ridge Drive, McCaysville, Georgia 30555).

Next door, Twisted Tomato Restaurant (100 Blue Ridge Drive, McCaysville, Georgia 30555) offers mouth-watering, brick-oven pizza and Italian food you can pick up to enjoy along the banks of the Toccoa River.

Just 15 minutes outside of Blue Ridge, Toccoa Riverside Restaurant (8055 Aska Road, Blue Ridge, Georgia 30513) provides guests with a fine dining experience, complete with award-winning steaks and seafood along with a dog-friendly outdoor bar and patio area, set in the gorgeous natural surroundings along the Toccoa River. For even more casual dining, go below to River Rest for some great appetizers and an assortment of fish, shrimp, veggie or pork tacos and enjoy dining on the banks of the Toccoa River.

No matter which aqua adventure you choose, summertime memories await in pristine Blue Ridge, Georgia.

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