Along the Blue Ridge Parkway
The Adventure Continues in Wytheville, Virginia
by Colette Boehm, Laurie Rowe Communications
WYTHEVILLE, VA – September 2020 Just 30 minutes from the Fancy Gap entrance to the Blue Ridge Parkway, Wytheville, VA offers parkway travelers a diversion that adds unique attractions and lodging and even more outdoor adventure to their excursion. Wytheville is located at the crossroads of Interstates 77 and 81 and has long been a convenient spot for those traveling through the region. The Great Lakes to Florida Highway Museum (975 Tazewell Street, Wytheville, VA 24382) offers a look back at that era when Route 21, known as the Great Lakes to Florida Highway, was the primary route to Florida from the Midwest.
But a stop in Wytheville goes way beyond convenience. For those who choose to travel the Blue Ridge Parkway, savor the views and experience the authentic Virginia lifestyle, it’s a treasure. There is easy access to adventure here. This is the center point of the Claw of the Dragon Motorcycle Trail. This 200-mile route is one of the most popular in the south and includes amazing views and exciting twists and turns.
One of those views is from Big Walker Mountain and the Big Walker Lookout (8711 Stoney Fork Rd, Wytheville, VA 24382). This family-owned and operated attraction sits at an elevation of 3400 feet and the 100-foot-tall tower offers a seemingly endless view. On the ground, the Country Store features local artisan crafts and homemade jams, jellies, candies and more. This is also home to Big Walker Mountain Scenic Byway, which crosses 16 miles of mountain vistas. With its historic farmsteads and beautiful forest lands, this route is also a treat for both birders and history buffs.
Speaking of history, the New River, the oldest river in North America, is the heart of the New River Trail, designated the New River State Park. This Rail-to-Trails treasure is almost 57 miles long and is an officially designated National Recreation Trail. The trail winds through beautiful scenery in Wythe and three other Southwest Virginia counties. It is popular for hiking and biking, as is the15.5-mile Walker Mountain Trail (8711 Stoney Fork Rd, Wytheville, VA 24382). This trail, rated difficult, is shared by hikers, equestrians and mountain bikers. It follows the mountain ridge and connects to the Crawfish Trail, about a mile from the Appalachian Trail in Crawfish Valley.
Trails aren’t the only way to experience Wytheville. Just like the parkway, this destination offers an exceptional glimpse not only of the beautiful vistas of the region, but also of the people who make their living from the land.
A tour of Beagle Ridge Herb Farm (1934 Matney Flats Rd., Wytheville, VA 24382), Southwest Virginia’s premiere Lavender farm, showcases two acres of display gardens, amazing herb and perennial collections a butterfly house and more than four miles of trails.
West Wind Farm Vineyard and Winery (180 West Wind Dr., Max Meadows, VA, 24360) is a fourth-generation homestead in Southwest Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains with roots dating back more than a century. Today the family makes small-batch, hand-tended wines and welcomes guests to enjoy the wines and the views from their cozy tasting room.
Many choose to explore the culture and spirit of Wytheville throughout its charming downtown. Classic downtown streets are lined with locally owned businesses and one-of-a-kind shops. From home-town-favorite specialty shops to local brew pubs, Wytheville is a place like no other. There are museums to explore days gone by and unique lodging options for enjoying the night to come. For a delightful diversion just off the Blue Ridge Parkway, Wytheville is the perfect spot to enjoy an authentic Southwest Virginia experience.
WHERE TO STAY
There’s only one Wytheville. It’s true, no other town in the world shares this name. But with one visit, guests discover that its name is not the only thing making this destination special. Situated at the crossroads of two major Interstates (I-77 and I-81) this is so much more than a stopover location. A classic downtown chock-full of gems, Wytheville offers unique lodging, dining and entertainment options. Nearby, there are trails for hikers and cyclists as well as for those who love birding and byways. Add a bundle of homegrown attractions, and you’ve got a must-see destination in Wytheville. There’s only one!
ABOUT WYTHEVILLE
There’s only one Wytheville. It’s true, no other town in the world shares this name. But with one visit, guests discover that its name is not the only thing making this destination special. Situated at the crossroads of two major Interstates (I-77 and I-81) this is so much more than a stopover location. With a classic downtown chock-full of gems, Wytheville offers unique lodging, dining and entertainment options. Nearby, there are trails for hikers and cyclists as well as for those who love birding and byways. Add a bundle of homegrown attractions, and you’ve got a must-see destination in Wytheville. There’s only one!
