Things to do… Giles A > Z
Looking for a place that has it all? Giles County is packed with things to do and sights to see, no matter what you’re into! Love the great outdoors? Float down the scenic New River Water Trail, hike to one of our breathtaking waterfalls, or pitch a tent and camp under the stars by the river. Prefer something indoors? We’ve got you covered with a variety of unique experiences that go beyond the trails. Whether you’re chasing adventure or craving relaxation, Giles County has something for everyone. To make planning easy, we’ve put together an A-to-Z list of must-see spots and activities. Dive in and start exploring!
Andrew Johnston House
This one is for you, history lovers! The Andrew Johnston House in Pearisburg, Virginia is the oldest surviving brick house in Giles County. Today, it is a museum, and it is home to the Giles County Historical Society. Tours are offered when the house is open, and the volunteer staff can help with genealogical services in their Research Center. There is also a gift shop to find something to remember your visit.
Barney’s Wall
It is likely you have stumbled across or heard of the well-known Cascade Falls hike in Pembroke, Virginia. Barney’s Wall, sets directly above the Cascades, offers a scenic mountain view for hikers who are willing to go the extra distance to get there.
Corner Market
On your A-Z journey of Giles County, make sure to stop at the Corner Market in Rich Creek, Virginia. You can fill up your gas tank, purchase fresh fruit and vegetables, or grab a quick snack.
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Castle Rock Golf Course
Surround by views or the mountains, Castle Rock Golf & Recreation is open to the public with an 18-hole course recently recognized as a top public course in Southwest Virginia. Visit them today, book an event at the 19th Hole, or consider a membership to enjoy the pool and other amenities.
Dismal Falls
The 12 ft. drop and 40 ft. spread make this waterfall anything but Dismal. Off the beaten path and along that Appalachian Trail, Dismal Falls offers a tucked away adventure to splash in the creek, fish, & be outdoors.
Eggleston Springs Campground
Eggleston Springs Campground, located in Eggleston, Virginia, is a great place to camp or access the New River Water Trail for the day for a small fee. It is a family oriented campground that offers some of the best fishing. Bring your tackle and see for yourself!
Farmers Markets
In Narrows you can find our local farmers market, boasting fresh produce, crafts, events, and activities. Vendors can be set up at the Farmer’s Market from 9am- 1pm on Saturdays, April 1st through October 31st. They also host special events throughout the year as well including Locals Only Nights and food truck pop-ups!
Glen Lyn Town Park
In Glen Lyn, Virginia you can find the Glen Lyn Town Park. The park is along the New River Water Trail, and there is a public boat landing. There is also playground equipment for the youngsters to enjoy.
Hunting
Giles County contains 92.4 square miles of Jefferson National Forest, so Giles County is often busy in the fall once hunting seasons begin. There is an abundance of whitetail deer, wild turkey, rabbit, and raccoon for hunters and sportsman. Find out more about hunting licenses for the Commonwealth and where to hunt in the Jefferson National Forest.
Lilly Valley Inn
Located in beautiful Pearisburg, Virginia, overlooking the New River, the Lilly Valley Inn is an open, relaxed, friendly and inclusive bed & breakfast. Sitting atop a bluff overlooking the New River, the Lilly Valley Inn offers breathtaking views of the Appalachian Mountains. Each stunning guestroom in this custom-built country Inn opens directly to a sprawling deck for spectacular views of the New River and surrounding mountains, capturing unforgettable sunrises and star-filled skies in the evening.
Jam Sessions
Thursdays at the MacArthur Inn and typically has a dinner option! Open Mic Nights every Monday at The Happy Hog in downtown Pearisburg. The Crooked Road affiliated jam at Newport Community Center- the Bluegrass & Old Time Jam happens the first Friday of every month from 7-9pm!
Kelly Knob Overlook
To get to Kelly Knob Overlook, you hike two miles along the Appalachian Trail near Newport, Virginia. Once you get to the overlook, there are beautiful views to enjoy. The elevation is from 3,300 to 3,800 feet, and the hike is considered to be of moderate difficulty.
LOVEwork
Virginia is for Lovers! You can find four LOVEwork displays for a fun photo opportunity in our beautiful communities! One is in Newport at the Newport Recreation and Community Center. You’ll find another one at the Mill Pond, also known as the Duck Pond, in Narrows. Find the third at the Rich Creek park and the newest addition is located in downtown Pearisburg, next door to the historic Courthouse. Stop by and enjoy the creativity that went into these displays, and snap a quick picture while you’re at it to share on social media. (Be sure to use #GilesCoVA & #LoveVA)
Motorcycle Tours
Great views intertwined with a fun ride! GearHead Moto Tours can give you just that. They can help you with a rental, or you can bring your own bike. They take care of everything, like lodging, dining, and getting you to the beautiful views, so all you have to do is enjoy the ride.
New River Water Trail
Giles County is home to 37 beautiful miles of the New River Water Trail. There are many public and private access points to get on the river. River guests can enjoy tubing, canoeing, rafting, swimming, standup paddle boarding, fishing, and kayaking. There are outfitters and guides who can help you rent gear and guide your trip along the stunning New River.
Off-Road Trails at Kairos
Kairos Wilderness Resort sits in the western part of the county and makes a great getaway for friends and families. Their 1500+ acres of mountaintop wilderness boasts over 100 miles of off-road trail systems, RV campsites and primitive campsites, along with four luxury glamping yurts, and a wedding venue. Their newest attraction is The Mountain Course and their enclosed 5-stand. Guests can enjoy the amenities daily with trail passes or stay longer in any of the lodging options.
Palisades Restaurant
The Palisades Restaurant, located in the former Pyne’s General Store, in Eggleston offers contemporary, sophisticated cuisine with southern hospitality. Most of their pork, beef, trout, and produce are locally grown in the New River Valley. The Palisades offers dinner daily and Sunday brunch. Plus catch live music every weekend! In 2026 we’ll be celebrating the 100th anniversary of the building as part of our Giles VA250 celebrations!
Queen’s Pizza and Subs
Another yummy place to eat on our tour from A to Z is Queen’s Pizza and Subs. With locations in Pearisburg and Rich Creek, it is convenient to grab a pizza, burger, or sub to enjoy on your trip through Giles County. You can dine in, carry out, or have your food delivered to where you are staying.
JBR Vineyard
JBR Vineyards LLC was the first to sell a bottle of wine made from Giles County grapes. At an elevation of 1800 feet in the mountains of Southwest Virginia, JBR Vineyards LLC passionately produces small quantities of hand-tended classic wine grapes and hand-crafted wine.
Sinking Creek Bridge
The Sinking Creek Bridge is located in Newport. The bridge has been standing since 1916, making the bridge 110 years old! The bridge is 70 feet long, and a bright, beautiful red color. Because of its beauty, it has been the subject of many photographs and paintings throughout the years. It is open to the public for you to enjoy.
Treasure Island
Located within the Pembroke Park in the Town of Pembroke, Treasure Island playground is sure to make the youngsters on your trip happy. This playground will be loads of fun for them as they run, climb, and play. Pembroke Park also has a walking trail and a picnic shelter to enjoy on your visit.
Underground Caving
The Giles County Historical Society has held an informational session about Giant Caverns in the summer of 2016. The Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation also holds occasional caving opportunities for experienced cavers to enter caves. Giles has over 250 registered caves. Please be respectful and extremely cautious when considering entering a cave. All caves require permission to enter from landowners.
Virginias Walk Trail
The Virginias Walk Trail in White Rocks Campground meanders 1.3 miles around the campground. Its name comes from the fact that the trail travels from Virginia into West Virginia and back again. The trail begins at campsite #9 and ends at campsite #26. It is a pleasant stroll to enjoy!
Walker Creek Retreat
Walker Creek Retreat is situated along nearly a mile of unspoiled creek frontage of Walker Creek in Pembroke. There are multiple waterfront vacation rentals with rustic-chic cabin décor. You can make it a family getaway and/or package some guided fishing experiences into the time visiting Giles.
X Country Skiing
Cross country skiing, or X country skiing, is something to enjoy during the wintertime in Giles County. Visit Mountain Lake Lodge for their resort map to see areas for skiers to enjoy. The Jefferson National Forest can also be a place you may see skiers enjoying the terrain.
Yoga
Need some time to relax? The Giles County Wellness Center offers group yoga classes, as well as many others group exercise classes. The Wellness Center also has cardiovascular equipment, free weights, weight machines, and full locker room facilities for gym guests to use.
Zen Moments in Nature
We might call ourselves “Virginia’s Mountain Playground” but there are more than ample opportunities to experience zen while exploring through Giles. From nature walks, quite coffee shops, scenic overlooks, or artistic adventures- we hope you’ll browse our website and see how grounded a visit can be to our beautiful home!
