People posing for a picture at Cascade Falls
Sep 11 2020

Epic Road Trip Destination | Virginia’s Mountain Playground

Epic Road Trip Destination | Virginia's Mountain Playground   Experience an epic outdoor road trip and staycation through Virginia’s Mountain Playground™. If you find yourself driving a motorcycle, convertible, or RV this is your map to epic outdoor adventures. Whatever your mode of transportation, Giles has your wide open adventure!   Not sure where to start on your motorcycle adventure? GearHead Moto Tours in...

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5 Unexpected Sp
Jun 01 2020

5 Unexpected Destinations

Explore what Virginia's Mountain Playground has to offer you in the New River Valley of Virginia. While spending your spring break conquering roller coasters at Busch Gardens or reliving Virginia’s founding moments at popular historic spots like Colonial Williamsburg are always fun options for the family, consider looking at a less-traveled destination for your vacation to avoid the...

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GearHead Moto Tours
Sep 01 2017

Motorcycle Adventures in Southwest Virginia

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 motorcycle adventure across our grand country. If you’re on the hunt for...

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20170711_Virginia_New River Kayaking Whitewater
Aug 01 2017

Exploring the Lakes, Creeks, and Rivers of Southwest Virginia

Tucked into the rolling mountains of Southwest Virginia are miles of sparkling lakes, creeks, and rivers waiting to be explored. Load your boat, stock the tackle box, and paddle your way across the state with our guide to Southwest Virginia’s most memorable adventures on the water. Flatwater and Fishing Fishing at Smith Mountain Lake, a tranquil setting that includes 500 miles of...

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20170628_Virginia_SWVA_Abingdon-35
Jul 26 2017

10 Must-Do Adventures in Southwest Virginia

Southwest Virginia was once dominated by the coal industry. Mining in the region peaked in the late 1990s, but has been on the decline since. The slow disappearance of the once-dominant industry has given way to something that people might not expect: outdoor tourism. The natural beauty was always there, of course, it just wasn’t the focus while coal was...

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20170626_Virginia_Cascades
Jul 26 2017

Exploring the Waterfalls of Southwest Virginia

The peaks and valleys of Southwest Virginia embrace the Blue Ridge, Allegheny, and Cumberland mountains in the Appalachian chain, offering numerous opportunities to experience the beautiful sight of waterfalls. Many lie close to the road, allowing easy access, but others require a challenging hike. The Cascades Enjoy the cool rush of water under the Cascades. Adam Fagen It’s easy to understand the popularity of...

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20170629_Dinner at Mountain Lake Lodge Harvest Room
Jul 25 2017

A Foodie’s Guide to Southwest Virginia

If smokin’ barbecue, moist cornbread, and a tall glass of sweet tea define southern cooking for you, it’s time to expand your horizons. These traditional favorites remain top of the menu, but don’t stop there. Local farmers, chefs, winemakers, and brewers are taking locally sourced products and regional traditions to new levels with stunning dishes and authentically Appalachian dining experiences...

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20170609_Virginia_Mill Creek Nature Park
Jul 21 2017

Mill Creek Nature Park – Hiking

Intro Mill Creek Nature Park attracts lots of mountain bikers and fishermen to this remote and scenic region of Southwest Virginia, but the best way to explore the cascading waterfalls of Mill Creek is to hike up Pearis Mountain. The trails are mostly steep and rocky, passing by historic sites like an old dam, an engineered structure that served as the...

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20170615_Virginia_Giles_Mountain Lake Lodge
Jul 20 2017

Spending a long weekend in Giles County, Virginia

Giles County is an undiscovered, adventure destination located 20 minutes from Virginia Tech University in Blacksburg, Virginia. The mountainous region is a pristine playground for outdoor enthusiasts, including those who love hiking the Appalachian Trail and boating in the New River. So if you’re interested in a fun-filled weekend enjoying the outdoors, pack your gear and head for the hills...

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