Riverways, roadways and amazing views combine for scenic soft adventure
WYTHEVILLE, VIRGINIA–APRIL 2025–Wytheville, Virginia, is known for its classic downtown as well as access to a unique collection of outdoor activities. This vibrant destination is also renowned for its independent spirit that celebrates Wytheville’s history and fuels home-grown attractions and contemporary entrepreneurs. Located at the crossroads of two major Interstates, I-77 and I-81, this location has been a respite for travelers for decades to not just stop, but to stay and enjoy all that makes this authentic destination so special.
Downtown, the fascinating stories of Wytheville’s history and people are told at five museums and a nine-acre historic site. The Willow Brook Jackson-Umberger Homestead Museum (1125 Tazewell Street, Wytheville, Virginia 24382; 276-223-3330) depicts life from the 1700s to the mid-20th century with interpretation, displays and activities in restored buildings and beautiful green spaces.
Just outside of town, more greenspace calls. At Crystal Springs Recreation Area (723 Pump Hollow Lane, Wytheville, Virginia 24382; 276-223-3378) find an 1800-acre preserve enjoyed by both hikers and mountain bikers. Its mountain bike terrain park has more than a dozen features, including balance beams, a teeter-totter and a wooden berm wall. Hiking trails offer easy half-mile options as well as the more challenging seven-mile boundary trail. There is a reservoir and picnic areas as well as trail views of Sand Mountain. Nearby, there are several easily accessible hiking and biking trails, from leisurely to difficult, for those who want to explore more options.
Foster Falls is the New River Trail State Park headquarters (116 Orphanage Drive, Max Meadows, Virginia 24360) and is a preferred starting point for cyclists and horseback riders who want to enjoy the New River Trail. Nearly 57 miles long, this is one of America’s premier rails-to-trails routes and is also a Virginia State Park which runs through Wythe and three other Southwest Virginia counties. Bicycle rentals are available seasonally (Foster Falls Boat and Bike Livery; 276-699-1034), but equestrians must bring their own horse. The livery also has kayak and tube rentals for those who want to get out on the river. The New River parallels the park for 39 miles and anglers know it as an excellent spot for catching bass, walleye, crappie and more.
Rural Retreat Lake (250 Lake Road, Rural Retreat, Virginia 24368; 276-686-4331) is a popular fishing spot, as well. This 90-acre impoundment is a favorite for those fishing for muskie and bass, and there is a fully stocked trout pond adjoining the lake. In May of each year, the Rural Retreat Lake Campground offers more than 60 primitive and full hookup camping sites, also. At Cedar Springs Trout Farm (5185 Cedar Springs Road, Rural Retreat, Virginia 24368; 276-617-1705) there are two miles of scenic, fishable stream on Cripple Creek, stocked with trout hatched and raised on the farm. Reservations are required.
For those who love panoramic views, Big Walker Lookout (8711 Stoney Fork Road, Wytheville, Virginia 24382) is the place to go. This family-owned and -operated destination is the oldest and highest private attraction in Virginia. At an elevation of 3,405 feet, the lookout offers a spectacular view of the Appalachian Mountains and Virginia farmlands.
Motorcyclists love to take in the sights along the Claw of the Dragon motorcycle trail, which winds through the Blue Ridge Mountain range. The trail features several loops totaling more than 350 miles as far as Marion to the west and Galax to the east, making Wytheville the perfect base for daily outings on the route. And of course, for those who enjoy the scenic beauty and tranquility of a drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway, the Fancy Gap access point is just 30 minutes from downtown Wytheville.
When you go
Don’t miss these one-of-a-kind Wytheville attractions that offer opportunities to enjoy the outdoors.
Beagle Ridge Herb Farm (1934 Matney Flats Road, Wytheville, Virginia 24382; 276-621-4511). This 210-acre site is Southwest Virginia’s premiere lavender farm well as an educational center and leading herbal product producer. In a quest to build the best, the farm has created 14 themed display gardens and a Flying Flowers butterfly house and also hosts a two-day Lavender Academy. A commitment to sustainability is evident in the farm’s designation as a Certified Habitat Garden, Monarch Watch Site, Bee Friendly Site and a Pesticide Free Zone.
West Wind Farm Vineyard and Winery (180 West Wind Drive, Max Meadows, Virginia 24360; 276-699-2020) is a family farm in a beautiful Blue Ridge Mountain setting. The fourth-generation farm produces and harvests grapes for its annual small batch wine collection and visitors can sample the family-crafted wines then choose a favorite to compliment a charcuterie board made with local cheeses, Virginia peanuts and gourmet pickled veggies from the tasting room shop.
Fort Chiswell Animal Park (569 Red Hollow Road, Max Meadows, Virginia 24360; 276-637-6754) was born out of local carpenter Jeff Archer’s dream of having his own zoo. After buying the land, he developed every element of the park himself. Now, the attraction is a drive-through safari park and offers an interactive experience throughout a 45-acre setting. The only zoo in Southwest Virginia, it is home to more than 200 animals from six continents.
Where to stay
There are nationally known hotel brands represented in Wytheville, offering a variety of amenities and services. In addition, some local lodging options offer experiences not available anywhere else. The Bolling Wilson Hotel (170 East Main Street, Wytheville, Virginia 24382) offers 30 luxurious guest rooms which are themed to honor the hotel’s namesake and home-town hero, First Lady Edith Bolling Wilson. Trinkle Mansion Bed and Breakfast (525 West Main Street, Wytheville, Virginia 24382; 276-625-0625) has been among the top 10 B & Bs in the country, according to Trip Advisor reviews. This historic Classic Revival style home has four guest rooms, as well as a quaint garden cottage. The Inn at Foster Falls (176 Orphanage Drive, Max Meadows, Virginia 24360; 276-595-5905) has the distinction of being the only inn in the Virginia State Park system. The 19th-century hotel has been completely renovated and reopened as a 10-bedroom boutique hotel.