Head to the highest peaks of Virginia for stunning fall color. While you’re soaking in the mountain vistas, explore adorable small towns and a vibrant music scene.
- Hungry Mother State Park
Reserve a cozy cabin or yurt at Hungry Mother State Park and choose your fall adventures. Explore hiking trails, take a guided nature walk, and enjoy the lake, at its most beautiful in fall.
- Whitetop Mountain
Near Mount Rogers and Whitetop Mountain, Virginia’s two highest mountains, enjoy scenic views of alpine-like peaks, hike on trails leading to waterfalls and overlooks, designated camping areas, and a visitor center.
Virginia Tourism Corporation, www.Virginia.org
Virginia’s second highest peak is easily accessible by car. You can also combine this trip with a short hike to Buzzard Rock for 360 degree fall views.
- Saltville Well Fields
Saltville’s natural and cultural resources have offered a home to humans and wildlife for over 30,000 years. Explore the saltwater marshes of the Saltville Well Fields and imagine Woolly Mammoths grazing in the fields.
- Mt Rogers Scenic Byway
For a peaceful drive with gorgeous mountain foliage, head southeast from Marion to the Mount Rogers Scenic Byway and traverse the heart of the Mount Rogers National Recreation Area.
- Back of the Dragon
Experience the unmatched beauty and motorcycle riding enjoyment provided by Virginia Route 16, the two lane ribbon over the three mountains between Tazewell and Marion.
Virginia Tourism Corporation, www.Virginia.org
A one of a kind experience for driving enthusiasts, The Back of the Dragon winds its way through Smyth County into neighboring Tazewell, offering overlooks on the way.
- Skull’s Gap Overlook, Chilhowie
Grab a picnic lunch in Chilhowie and head to Skull’s Gap Overlook, where you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the fall colors. Ideal for wildlife watchers, Skull’s Gap is excellent for hawk-watching during fall migration.
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Request a visitor guide and plan your fall trip! Call (276) 783-3161 or visitsmythcountyva.com for details.
Feature photo: the view of Mount Rogers in Grayson/Smyth Counties.
