29 May Hungry Mother State Park Virtual Visit
Today's virtual visit takes us to Hungry Mother State Park in "America's Coolest Hometown" Marion, Virginia. Hungry Mother State Park is a fantastic Virginia State Park located just fifteen minutes off I-81 in Marion, Virginia. Hungry Mother offers a wide variety of outdoor fun from camping, biking, hiking, picnics, boating, a beach, and much more. That park is also located right along with The Back of the Dragon roadway leading over to Tazewell, Virginia. Hungry Mother History...
29 May The Floyd Country Store, Handmade Music School, and County Sales with Dylan Locke
Today we're taking a look into Floyd County, Virginia, and how it has helped shape and establish the music and heritage of Southwest Virginia. Floyd County is home to the Floyd Country Store, The Handmade Music School, and County Sales. Listen in as Dylan Locke tells us about these three places of interest along The Crooked Road and learn some more about Southwest Virginia musical history and heritage! Music from today's podcast is by The Twin...
22 May Scenic Drives in Southwest Virginia
We know you're itching to explore Southwest Virginia and have some fun! We have taken some time and crafted an exceptional set of itineraries just for you! No matter what type of explorer you consider yourself, we have just the right things in mind for you! Today we are kicking off our itinerary list with SWVA scenic drives! Please note some locations may be currently closed or limited due to COVID19. Be sure to check with...
02 Apr Growing Economic Asset In Virginia’s Smallest City
Mountain biking has the power to be a major economic driver for a small city like Norton, Virginia. With the downtown limits of the city so close to trailheads, businesses there are prime stops as riders find their new destination. I chatted with Shayne Fields about how he is leading the work in Norton to develop trails around High Knob and Flag Rock. Shayne has a passion to see mountain biking become a tourism asset...
04 Mar The Hill
We all know how special the hills of Southwest Virginia and everything within them are. If you’re reading this, you’re most likely well versed in their beauty and uniqueness. From the cascading Appalachian mountains that tumble through the region to the fascinating culture that has grown upon them. You don’t have to look far for plenty of reasons this corner of the world has etched itself into the hearts of so many. Sitting atop those reasons...
04 Mar Main Street Marion
One of the defining features of Southwest Virginia is its many main street communities. Marion Virginia is a perfect representation of the unique culture and environment that these communities create. Whether it be fun activities, arts and crafts, or a fantastic restaurant to eat at on a Saturday night, you’ll find it all on one side of the street or the other. Here are some things you don’t want to miss while you’re in town. The...
03 Mar Wytheville
Some time ago, someone remarked to me that Wytheville is one of the most delightful towns in Southwest Virginia to spend a day but it never gets the recognition it deserves. I set out to spend some time in there and discover what enriching or fun activities it might hide. I was surprised with what I found. Even a simple stroll down the historic Main Street proved to be enjoyable. You can see history written in...
03 Mar Hungry Mother State Park
Southwest Virginia is dotted with hidden gems but perhaps its worst kept secret is Hungry Mother State Park just outside of Marion. A favorite by many locals and travelers alike, the park boasts some of the best recreational activities in the area and its charm is challenged only by its breathtaking beauty. Opened in 1936, the park along with its gorgeous namesake lake has held a special place in the heart of the region. It attracts...
03 Mar Local Artists and Sellers
I’ve heard Wytheville described as an old town with a new heart. A blossoming scene of business and culture in the region. Which could describe Southwest Virginia in general. A region with roots that stretch through the soil of history for hundreds of years in the middle of a reawakening. A newfound appreciation of old and new, a marriage of tradition and innovation. If you live here you can see it happening, unfolding on our...
03 Mar Top 5 Places To Climb/Boulder in SWVA
1. Grayson Highlands Bouldering has grades from V0-V12. Great for climbing in the summer when temps stay a little more mild due to high elevation. There are two dedicated trails for bouldering including the Listening Rock Trail as well as the the trail that starts at the Contact Section. There is a Bouldering Guide Book that is available to purchase that has a list of over 300 boulder problems in the area. 2. Hidden Valley Good Route/Rope Climbing...