Nestled within the coronary heart of Virginia’s Mountain Area, the Alleghany Highlands of Virginia is a hidden gem brimming with pure magnificence, outside adventures, and charming small-town tradition. Whether or not you’re an avid hiker, a historical past fanatic, or somebody looking for a serene getaway, the Alleghany Highlands affords one thing for everybody. Listed here are the highest ten issues you could do when visiting this picturesque area.
Go to Humpback Bridge & Falling Spring Falls
One among Virginia’s most photographed landmarks, the Humpback Bridge in Covington is a must-see. Inbuilt 1857, this distinctive humpback-shaped coated bridge is the oldest of its type in america. The encompassing park space is ideal for picnicking, and the bridge itself gives a picturesque backdrop for photographs. The wayside park additionally contains one of many state’s most unusual LOVEworks indicators!
Falling Spring Falls is one in every of Virginia’s most breathtaking pure landmarks, situated only a brief drive from Covington within the Alleghany Highlands. This gorgeous 80-foot waterfall cascades right into a serene pool under, surrounded by lush greenery and dramatic rock formations. Simply accessible by way of a scenic overlook, Falling Spring Falls is a must-see attraction for guests looking for the awe-inspiring great thing about the Allegheny Mountains
Hike the Alleghany Highlands Trails
The Alleghany Highlands is residence to an intensive community of trails that cater to all ability ranges. The Jackson River Scenic Path, a 16-mile rails to trails initiative composed of easy crushed gravel, working parallel to the emerald waters of the Jackson River, is good for biking, strolling, and horseback driving, providing gorgeous views of the Jackson River. For a more difficult hike, deal with the rugged terrain of the Blue Suck Falls Path in Douthat State Park or hike in the direction of the unimaginable views of the North Mountain Path. Be taught extra at https://visitalleghanyhighlands.com/uniquely-alleghany/alleghany-highlands-trails/.
Uncover the Alleghany Highlands Blueway
The Alleghany Highlands Blueway is a premier vacation spot for water fans looking for journey and tranquility amidst the gorgeous pure great thing about Virginia’s Alleghany Highlands. This expansive community of rivers, lakes, and streams affords limitless alternatives for kayaking, canoeing, fishing, and paddle boarding. Whether or not you’re navigating the serene waters of Lake Moomaw, casting a line within the Jackson River, or exploring the hidden coves and scenic shorelines, the Blueway gives a novel and immersive option to expertise the area’s lush landscapes and various wildlife. Preferrred for each seasoned paddlers and newbies, the Alleghany Highlands Blueway is your gateway to unforgettable aquatic adventures. Be taught extra at: https://visitalleghanyhighlands.com/uniquely-alleghany/alleghany-highlands-blueway/
Go to the Historic Masonic Theatre
Positioned in Clifton Forge, the Historic Masonic Theatre is a cultural cornerstone of the Alleghany Highlands. This superbly restored 1905 theater hosts a wide range of performances, together with live shows, performs, and movies. The theater additionally affords guided excursions, giving guests a glimpse into its wealthy historical past and gorgeous structure.
Uncover the C&O Railway Heritage Heart
Railway fans will love the C&O Railway Heritage Heart in Clifton Forge. This museum affords an in-depth take a look at the historical past of the Chesapeake and Ohio Railway, that includes reveals, mannequin trains, and restored rail automobiles. The middle’s interactive shows and informative excursions make it a enjoyable and academic cease for all ages.
Loosen up at Lake Moomaw
For a tranquil retreat, head to Lake Moomaw, a pristine lake surrounded by lush forests. The lake is ideal for swimming, boating, and fishing, with ample alternatives for tenting alongside its scenic, 43 miles of shoreline. Deliver your seashore chair and chill out at Cole’s Level Seaside with some of the stunning mountain backdrops you’ll ever see.
Discover Douthat State Park
One among Virginia’s authentic six state parks, Douthat State Park is a haven for outside fans. With over 40 miles of trails, it’s excellent for climbing, mountain biking, and horseback driving. Don’t miss the 50-acre lake the place you may get pleasure from swimming, fishing, and non-motorized boating. The park additionally affords cozy cabins and campgrounds for an immersive nature expertise.
Stroll By way of Covington & Clifton Forge’s Historic Downtowns
Each Covington & Clifton Forge boasts charming historic downtown areas. You’ll be able to take a leisurely stroll down each Major Streets to discover distinctive outlets, native eateries, and historic landmarks. Don’t miss the Discovery Heart in downtown Covington, the place you may be taught concerning the space’s wealthy heritage by fascinating reveals and artifacts or the Metropolis’s downtown pocket-park that includes a LOVEwork signal and ample house to sit down down and revel in a chunk to eat from a number of downtown eateries.
In downtown Clifton Forge, you may go to the Historic Masonic Theatre, the Clifton Forge College of the Arts, the Alleghany Highlands Arts & Crafts Heart & the C&O Railway Heritage Heart – all inside a pair minute stroll of one another. Pair that with fantastic eating alternatives and distinctive domestically owned outlets and you’ve got a day well-spent in stunning downtown Clifton Forge.
Embark on a Scenic Drive
Scenic drives are a well-liked option to see the great thing about the Alleghany Highlands. Motorbike riders particularly love the peaceable and winding roads. Two of the best icons of Virginia’s Mountains Area occur to be roadside points of interest within the Alleghany Highlands. Falling Spring Falls, situated simply north of Covington, is without doubt one of the most photographed spots within the Commonwealth. Humpback Bridge, on Route 60 west of downtown Covington, is a well-liked place for a picnic and is residence to some of the distinctive LOVEworks indicators in Virginia. Journey in any course out of our two charming downtowns and also you’ll discover nice surroundings and maybe a number of hidden gems alongside the way in which. Discover your route at: https://visitalleghanyhighlands.com/things-to-do/scenic-drives/
Take a look at the Jackson River Sports activities Complicated
The Jackson River Sports activities Complicated in Covington, Virginia, is a premier vacation spot for outside recreation and household enjoyable. Nestled alongside the scenic Jackson River, this versatile facility affords a variety of actions for all ages. Get pleasure from a day of baseball or softball on the well-maintained fields, take a leisurely stroll or bike experience on the picturesque riverfront path, or let the children play on the trendy playgrounds. The advanced additionally options picnic shelters, tennis courts, soccer fields, a driving vary and extra, excellent for household gatherings and neighborhood occasions. Whether or not you’re an athlete, nature lover, or simply searching for a spot to chill out and unwind, the Jackson River Sports activities Complicated has one thing for everybody.
Unwind at a Native Mattress and Breakfast
The Alleghany Highlands of Virginia is not only a haven for outside fans and historical past buffs; it’s additionally residence to a number of the most charming and distinctive mattress & breakfasts. These cozy retreats supply personalised hospitality, scrumptious home-cooked meals, and the right base for exploring the area’s pure magnificence and quaint cities. Irrespective of the place you keep, you’ll expertise the friendliness and hospitality that the Alleghany Highlands of Virginia is legendary for. We wouldn’t have it every other means. Be taught extra at: https://visitalleghanyhighlands.com/places-to-stay/bed-breakfasts-inns/
Conclusion
The Alleghany Highlands of Virginia is a vacation spot that guarantees journey, leisure, and a deep reference to nature. Whether or not you’re exploring the good outdoor, delving into the area’s wealthy historical past, or just soaking within the scenic magnificence, you’re certain to create lasting reminiscences on this enchanting a part of the Allegheny Mountains. Pack your baggage and got down to uncover all that the Alleghany Highlands of Virginia has to supply! Plan your journey at: https://visitalleghanyhighlands.com/