hiking.
Grayson Highlands State Park
Grayson Highlands State Park is a must visit for any hiker. With 19 hiking trails, trail running trails, views trails and more, there is literally something for everyone. Every trail offers amazingly beautiful and diverse scenery that will deliver soul-cleansing serenity to all those that explore them. The AT-Pine Mountain Trail loop embodies scenic views of alpine-like peaks, wild ponies and rocky outcroppings.
The Channels Trail
Explore the maze-like, sandstone slot canyons of the Great Channels of Virginia. The area, located in Channels Natural Area Preserve near Abingdon in southwest Virginia, is a hidden gem for hikers. This 6.6 mile out-and-back takes you on top of Clinch Mountain, the most unique and unknown hiking trails in the state. Although you can get full 360-degree views, the highlight of the trail is navigating through maze-like rocks, reaching nearly 50 feet high and forming tight corridors and slots for more than 50 yards. Enjoy exploring this “rock fort,” which makes a perfect mid-hike excursion and lunch spot.
Backbone Rock
Backbone Rock Trail is a 0.4 mile moderately trafficked loop trail located near Shady Valley, Tennessee that features a river and is good for all skill levels. The trail offers a number of activity options and is best visited from March until October. Dogs are allowed on this trail but must be kept on a leash.
Buzzard Rock
Buzzard Rock is a 4.7 mile lightly trafficked out and back trail located near Damascus, Virginia that features a beautiful scenery through the woods. The trail is primarily moderate and used for hiking, nature trips, and backpacking.
Gentry Falls
Okay, so technically this one is in Tennessee but due to Southwest Virginia's central location, Gentry Creek Falls is just a 45min drive from Damascus. The 2.3-mile (each way) Gentry Creek Falls Trail crosses Gentry Creek approximately 14 times, providing hikers with access to the spectacular Gentry Creek Falls, a double waterfall approximately 60 feet total in a remote forest setting.