CategoriesNews by

Giles to Break Ground on Newest Public Boat Landing

Eggleston Boat Landing

For Immediate Release

Contact: Cora Gnegy
203 North Main Street
Pearisburg, VA 24134
540-921-2079 (office)
540-335-6314 (cell)

cgnegy@gilescounty.org
Date: June 21, 2018

Giles to Break Ground on Newest Public Boat Landing

 

Giles County, VA- Throughout the month of June there have been ongoing celebrations of the outdoors as we celebrate Great Outdoors Month. Adding to the inventory of public access points to the New River, Giles County will break ground at the newest location on June 28th at 1pm. As part of an Appalachian Regional Commission POWER grant award, in partnership with the Southwest Virginia Cultural Heritage Foundation, Giles will be building or improving access points along the New River. This particular ground breaking will occur at the future home of the Eggleston Boat Landing. Located near the Palisades Restaurant this boat landing will be another asset that allows river goers easy, safe, and convenient access to the New River. The future boat landing will be located by turning from Eggleston Road, onto River Road and after crossing the railroad tracks turn left to go under the bridge.

 

The short ceremony will highlight the cooperative efforts, improvements to tourism assets throughout the region, and New River Water Trail successes. The New River Water Trail is a cooperative effort between Giles County Administration, Giles County Tourism, New River’s Edge, New River Outdoor Company, Tangent Outfitters, local passionate citizens, small business owners, and lodging businesses in the county. The trail itself is already in place- it is the river. The continued access and success of the New River Water Trail™ will help visitors navigate the river and explore the various sections that are ready to be discovered both on and off water!

 

***

 

Giles County, Virginia is located in Southwest Virginia approximately 40 minutes south of Roanoke and just west of Blacksburg and Virginia Tech. With easy access to the New River, world class dining and lodging properties, and historical attractions for the entire family, Giles provides adventure in Virginia’s Mountain Playground™. Come find your playground at our Visitors Center located at 203 N Main Street, Pearisburg, VA 24134 or find us online at gilescounty.org or by calling 540-921-2079. For interviews or onsite visits, please contact Cora Gnegy, Tourism Marketing Director. We can arrange and assist with any media needs. For more information about planning your visit to Giles County or about activities and events, please visit www.gilescounty.org or contact us at tourism@gilescounty.org.

CategoriesNews by

Improving New River access points in Giles County | WDBJ7

Improving New River access points in Giles County

GILES COUNTY, Va. (WDBJ) The New River is a popular spot for people in Giles County. Now, officials are taking steps to make it easier for boats to come and go.

“I love the outdoors, I really love being on the water,” Randy Fuqua said, admiring the scene around him.

 

Fuqua and Austin Cunningham took a group of out-of-towners on a fishing tour of the New River in Giles County. They pushed off from the Whitt Riverbend boat landing in Ripplemead where there’s a concrete boat launch.

 

See full video HERE.

 

***

Boat landing in Giles County, Virginia
Picture from WDBJ7.

Randy and Austin guide fishing trips for New River Outdoor Company located in Pembroke. The New River Water Trail has pubic access points along the 37 miles of New River in Giles, approximately every 5-7 miles. The newest boat landings will improve safety, ease of access, and help minimize impacts on river banks.

CategoriesEvents, News by

Giles County Scavenger Hunt Back By Popular Demand

Giles County Scavenger Hunt Back By Popular Demand

 

Giles County, VA- Chances are you’ve hiked and taken a picture at Cascade Falls in Pembroke, Virginia. Many of you have also enjoyed a meal at The Palisades Restaurant in the Village of Eggleston. The entire month of July you are encouraged to ‘Be a Tourist in Your Own Backyard’ and to participate in the Giles County-wide Scavenger Hunt that begins on Monday, July 2nd and continues through Friday, August 3rd. The Narrows Farmers Market is helping to host the Scavenger Hunt this year! All proceeds from participation in the Hunt will benefit the Giles County Access to Community College Education (A.C.C.E.) Fund.

 

To participate you can either visit the Town of Narrows Town Hall during their business hours (9am-5pm), get the hunt list, and pay the $2 registration or, Monday through Friday 9am to 5pm or Saturday 9am to 1pm you can visit the Giles County Visitors Center, located with the Chamber of Commerce and Tourism Marketing Office at 203 N. Main St, Pearisburg. Upon registering each user will receive the hunt list that includes 50 different tasks to complete and their official entry wrist band. Each photo must have the wristband visible for it to count. There are three levels of tasks that make it easy for a youth or family adventure, or you can try to conquer them all!

 

Scavenging and finding the items may be hard enough for some, but to qualify participants may also need to take a picture at the location and share to social media. Follow along on the journey by watching #GilesHunt on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. All entries should be returned, including all items needed according to the list, to the Narrows Farmers Market on Friday, August 3rd. You are invited to attend their special market events that night including a food truck, produce vendors, community vendors and more from 5-8pm. There will be a trophy ceremony at 7pm at the Narrows Farmers Market. If participants are unable or finish early, their lists and items can be returned to the Giles County Visitor Center during the work week.

 

Prizes will be given and an overall winner will win the official, custom made Giles County Scavenger Hunt trophy that will stay on display at the Visitors Center, and the bragging rights. How well do you know Virginia’s Mountain Playground™? Are you up for the Hunt?

 

***

Giles County, Virginia is located in Southwest Virginia approximately 40 minutes south of Roanoke and just west of Blacksburg and Virginia Tech. With easy access to the New River, world class dining and lodging properties, and historical attractions for the entire family, Giles offers adventure in Virginia’s Mountain Playground™. Come find your playground at our Visitors Center located at 203 N Main Street, Pearisburg, VA 24134 or find us online at gilescounty.org or by calling 540-921-2079.

CategoriesNews by

Pembroke Day Trip

SUGGESTED ITINERARY | PEMBROKE DAY TRIP

Pembroke cobrandd logo Giles

Morning- Begin your day stocking up on supplies and breakfast at Tangent Outfitters and Cascade Café. Enjoy your morning of shopping at Amish Heirlooms, Pearl’s Petals and Gifts, flea market-esqu shops including Yesteryear, Big Dawg’s Bargains, and Cascade Café. All within walking distance for a nice stroll through this quaint small town that’s a hub of outdoor adventure in Giles. While walking through town stop and visit the Littlest Library in Virginia- the Pembroke Public Library.

 

 

Your lunch options are plentiful in Pembroke. Enjoy family favorites at Roma’s Italian Restaurant or Riviera Mexican Grill. Want something quicker? Enjoy Subway or Cascade Café, they also have hand-dipped ice cream!

 

Your activity options are extensive in Pembroke. You can rent tubes and enjoy the New River Water Trail from New River’s Edge. Paddle boards, canoes, kayaks, or bikes can be rented from Tangent Outfitters. Both New River Outdoor Company and Tangent Outfitters offer guided fishing trips and shuttle service to enjoy the entire 37 miles of the New River. With a public boat landing in Pembroke, you can start or finish your river adventure right in town!

 

Photo by Sam Dean, courtesy of Virginia Tourism Corporation

 

Looking for something off-water? Enjoy a round or two of golf at Castle Rock Golf and Recreation. One can’t think about visiting Pembroke without a hike to the Cascades waterfall. A 69 foot waterfall that is accessed by a 4 mile round trip hike. The hike, on average, takes about 3 hours. Above the falls you could also venture to the Upper Falls or Barney’s Wall! The Cascades Recreation Area is managed by the US Forest Service and there is a $3 parking fee. If a public space and nature walk is more your thing, or if you have little ones in tow, enjoy Treasure Island, Pembroke’s Town Park.

 

cascades waterfall spring
Photo by Alisa Moody

 

End your very full day in Pembroke with dinner at Kal-Bee’s. An award winning Korean restaurant. You can also enjoy lodging close to downtown at New River’s Edge a-frame log cabin, or camp along the banks of the New River at R&R Campground. Other nearby lodging along the river can be found at gilescounty.org/lodging.

 

***

 

Giles County, Virginia is located in Southwest Virginia approximately 40 minutes south of Roanoke and just west of Blacksburg and Virginia Tech. With easy access to the New River, world class dining and lodging properties, and historical attractions for the entire family, Giles offers adventure in Virginia’s Mountain Playground™. Come find your playground at our Visitors Center located at 203 N Main Street, Pearisburg, VA 24134 or find us online at gilescounty.org or by calling 540-921-2079. For interviews or onsite visits, please contact Cora Gnegy, Tourism Marketing Director. We can arrange and assist with any media needs. For more information about planning your visit to Giles County or about activities and events, please visit www.gilescounty.org or contact us at tourism@gilescounty.org.

glen lyn new river
CategoriesNews by

Glen Lyn Day Trip

SUGGESTED ITINERARY | GLEN LYN DAY TRIP

Morning- A visit to Glen Lyn can begin at the Glen Lyn Town Office, located at 205 Houston Lane.

 

A beautiful long walking and biking trail system starts at the Town Hall and follows Hwy. 460 going under the bridge and then through the Glen Lyn Park and along the New River. The trail is 1.73 miles long and has a mixed surface of asphalt and gravel and very minor grade changes. Restroom facilities are available along the trail.

Enjoy lunch in Glen Lyn by picking up needed items from the Valero Convenience Center or Neighbors Exxon. The Glen Lyn Town Park offers a great location along the New River Water Trail to partake your meal. Neighbors also has light shopping to enjoy!

 

After lunch consider hiking a portion of the Mary Ingles Trail (MIT). The trail traverses seven miles one way on river right along the New River. This trail has no improved surface, no restrooms, and has moderate grade changes throughout. To return to Glen Lyn you must walk back along the same trail. There are great views of Shumate Falls and many wildlife viewing opportunities, including osprey and eagles, which are common in this area.

 

The trail approximates the route taken by a pioneer woman, Mary Draper Ingles, and her companion, an elderly Dutch woman, following their escape in 1755 from Shawnee captors at what is now Big Bone Lick, Kentucky.  With no maps and only her memory to guide her, Mary reasoned the only way to return home was to follow the rivers. After an incredible 40-day journey over an estimated 450+ miles of rough terrain the two nearly starved women found their way to her home near present day Eggleston, Virginia. In memory of their courageous journey, a group of Kanawha Valley hikers organized the Mary Ingles Trail Blazers in 1989.

 

You may also choose to spend the day with a trail pass from Kairos Resort located on Shumate Falls Road. Trail passes and UTV rentals are available. One could spend the afternoon birding or riding the trails.

Motorcross man at Kairos Wilderness Resort
Photo by: Sam Dean

Lodging is available at the RV and tent campground at Kairos. They also have luxury yurts and primitive wilderness campsites. You may also enjoy camping along the New River at the Glen Lyn Campground. Registration can be obtained at the Town Office. During the summer months on Saturday mornings you may also find flea market vendors set up near the bath house.

You can also view this itinerary on Virginia.org.

***

Giles County, Virginia is located in Southwest Virginia approximately 40 minutes south of Roanoke and just west of Blacksburg and Virginia Tech. With easy access to the New River, world class dining and lodging properties, and historical attractions for the entire family, Giles offers adventure in Virginia’s Mountain Playground™. Come find your playground at our Visitors Center located at 203 N Main Street, Pearisburg, VA 24134 or find us online at gilescounty.org or by calling 540-921-2079. For interviews or onsite visits, please contact Cora Gnegy, Tourism Marketing Director. We can arrange and assist with any media needs. For more information about planning your visit to Giles County or about activities and events, please visit www.gilescounty.org or contact us at tourism@gilescounty.org.

disc golf
CategoriesNews by

Narrows Day Trip

Suggested Itinerary | Narrows Day Trip

Find this & and other day trip ideas to CRUSH FRIDAY here!

logo branding for Narrows

Morning- A visit to Narrows can begin at the Narrows Town Office and Visitors Center, located at 210 Main Street.

Just around the corner on Monroe Street are Centennial Park and The Mural of Narrows.  Next door to The Mural is the Narrows Farmer’s Market (open Friday 8am-5pm and Saturday 8am-noon; April thru October) where visitors can shop for local produce and handmade items. The Veterans Memorial Park is just a few steps away. This is the end of the Veterans Mile, which begins with the Route 61 bridge over New River. Across the street, enjoy the scenery at the duck pond and Mill Dam on Wolf Creek. Don’t forget to snap a picture with the LOVEWorks at the pond.

 

Creekside Classics (on Monroe Street across from the Farmer’s Market) offers primitive décor and some antiques. You may also enjoy Ms. Audre’s Fabrics & Fellowship on Main Street, just down from the Town Hall. If you’re looking for more riverside fun, enjoy the Camp Success Disc Golf for free!

 

disc golf

Lunch-Anna’s Restaurant on Monroe Street (open Tuesday-Sunday 11am-8pm and Sunday 12-4pm) has been an historic staple in downtown Narrows for many years. If alfresco dining suits better, make up a picnic lunch from Grant’s Supermarket and head to Centennial Park or the Narrows Town Park (follow Route 61W for about a quarter mile, sidewalks the entire way) and enjoy dining alfresco on the banks of Wolf Creek. The park also offers swimming in the creek, playground equipment and basketball courts.

 

Afternoon-Walk off that lunch with a hike at Mill Creek Nature Park. This park is located on the edge of town at the end of Northview Street and offers over 40 acres of natural beauty along Mill Creek. There are about miles of trails that are available for hiking or mountain biking. There are four waterfalls of varying sizes scattered along the trail that provide perfect settings for photographs. Fishing for native trout in the stream that runs through the park is also permitted (with appropriate licenses).

 

 

Evening-Return to Anna’s for your evening meal. Overnight accommodations are available at The Historic MacArthur Inn located downtown. If it’s a Thursday evening you can enjoy the Old Time Jam and dinner beginning at 5pm. This beautiful structure was built as a hotel in the 1940s.

 

For the more adventurous, Camp Success is located on Lurich Road at the confluence of Wolf Creek and the New River.  The campground offers primitive campsites along the river.  Registration can be made at the town office.

 

***

 

Giles County, Virginia is located in Southwest Virginia approximately 40 minutes south of Roanoke and just west of Blacksburg and Virginia Tech. With easy access to the New River, world class dining and lodging properties, and historical attractions for the entire family, Giles offers adventure in Virginia’s Mountain Playground™. Come find your playground at our Visitors Center located at 203 N Main Street, Pearisburg, VA 24134 or find us online at gilescounty.org or by calling 540-921-2079. For interviews or onsite visits, please contact Cora Gnegy, Tourism Marketing Director. We can arrange and assist with any media needs. For more information about planning your visit to Giles County or about activities and events, please visit www.gilescounty.org or contact us at tourism@gilescounty.org.

CategoriesNews by

New River Watershed Roundtable Assists in New River Water Trail Expansion

New River Watershed Roundtable Assists in New River Water Trail Expansion

Originally posted to NRVRC blog HERE.

 

NRV- The New River Watershed Roundtable continues to assist in the expansion of the New River Water Trail. Building off of the success and branding of the New River Water Trail initiative in Giles County, the Watershed Roundtable identified possible day trip locations throughout the New River Valley. Community representatives reviewed these sites and provided input at the November 2017 Watershed Roundtable meeting. Next steps include finalizing site locations and then for each community to pursue funding for the accompanying New River Water Trail signage.

 

The New River Water Trail is a community effort linking visitors and residents to river activities in Giles County.  As part of the New River Water Trail, Giles County developed a website to promote these activities and provides a trip planner. Day Trips on the New River are also part of the website’s service, with supporting signage, map, and trip information at each of the Day Trip locations within Giles County.

 

The New River Watershed Roundtable is a forum of community representatives with a common goal to promote watershed stewardship through open dialogue and collaboration. The Watershed Roundtable meets regularly, and more information can be found at www.nrvrc.org/watershedroundtable.

 

For more information regarding the New River Water Trail, please contact Cora Gnegy, Giles County Tourism Marketing Director, at tourism@gilescounty.org.

 

For further information, please contact Michael Gottfredson(michaelg@nrvrc.org), 540-693-9313, ext. 205­­­.

 

CategoriesNews by

“Keep Virginia Beautiful” Grant Awarded to Giles County

Giles County Awarded “Keep Virginia Beautiful” Grant

 

Giles Administration was pleased to learn a few months ago that they would be recipients of a Keep Virginia Beautiful – 30 Grants in Thirty Days program grant.  Giles had applied for funding in the recycling category.

 

The project award enabled construction of monofilament and fluorocarbon fishing line recycling tubes for all boat ramps on the Giles’ section of the New River, which did not yet have them. The funding has additionally enabled tubes to be constructed for future boat ramps that are now in the planning stages.

 

 

As well as recycling tubes, the funds have allowed an informational brochure to be developed that describes the environmental importance of keeping fishing line out of our waterways.  Used fishing line is harmful to wildlife, boats and humans. It can endanger fish, birds, turtles and other aquatic mammals.  Swimmers can become entangled and it can wrap around boat propellers. Giles County is fortunate to have several outdoor outfitters that have taught environmental stewardship for many years. These brochures are intended to further expand the reach of this message.

 

When a significant amount of the fishing line is collected from the tubes, it will be boxed and sent to Berkley Fishing where it is melted down and recycled into items such as fish habitat structures, tackle boxes, etc.

 

Collaborators in this venture, in addition to Keep Virginia Beautiful, the Giles County PSA, and ReNew The New, include the Berkley Fishing/Conservation Institute and Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries.  Additionally, some content for the brochures was utilized from the excellent programs of Florida Fish and Wildlife and Washington State Fish and Wildlife.  Finally, the BoatUS Foundation provided instructional stickers for the tubes.

 

Please join in the effort to keep the 37 miles of the Giles County New River beautiful for all to enjoy.

 

To learn more about the New River and the Giles County area and activities, please visit online at:  www.GilesCounty.org; ReNewtheNew.org; or NewRiverWaterTrail.com

 

***

 

Giles County, Virginia is located in Southwest Virginia approximately 40 minutes south of Roanoke and just west of Blacksburg and Virginia Tech. With easy access to the New River, world class dining and lodging properties, and historical attractions for the entire family, Giles offers adventure in Virginia’s Mountain Playground™. Come find your playground at our Visitors Center located at 203 N Main Street, Pearisburg, VA 24134 or find us online at gilescounty.org or by calling 540-921-2079. For interviews or onsite visits, please contact Cora Gnegy, Tourism Marketing Director. We can arrange and assist with any media needs. For more information about planning your visit to Giles County or about activities and events, please visit www.gilescounty.org or contact us at tourism@gilescounty.org.

CategoriesNews by

Bicycling, Mountain Biking, & More along the NRWT

Bicycling, Mountain Biking, & More in Giles

 

Tucked in Southwest Virginia with easy access from major cities and interstates, Giles County, Virginia bodes well for your cycling destination. The rural county with a population of just under 17,000 people, has 37 miles of the New River Water Trail, 62 miles of the Appalachian Trail, 92 square miles of Jefferson National Forest, and five small towns to enjoy. Road cyclists, mountain bikers, competitive riders, leisure riders, all can find their adventure in Giles. The New River Valley has an organized group of cyclists that support route development and promote cycling through the region. The New River Valley Bicycle Association boasts that they support some of the best riding, ‘with scenic valleys, rolling hills, challenging climbs, and (often) low traffic.’

Narrows…Naturally

In Giles County you need to add the Town of Narrows to your riding destination list. The Town is situated along Route 460, at the junction of Route 61, the newly designated Twin Depots Scenic Trail. There you will also find access to the New River, Mill Creek, and Wolf Creek. This charming town is home to an historic hotel, The MacArthur Inn, the county’s only brewing company, Right Turn, Clyde Brewing, and a local deli, the Blue Moon Café. Narrows is naturally beautiful and a natural place to stay, shop, and serve as base camp for your ride. In the fall the roadways and surrounding mountains burst with colors enticing you to explore this small Americana hometown. Right Turn Clyde often hosts food trucks out front of their establishment, or you can grab a quick bite at the Blue Moon Café. Resting at the Town Park or by the Duck Pond to listen to the sound of Wolf Creek tumbling onto the New, heightens the connection with your surroundings.

 

Right turn Clyde
Photo by Nathan Cooke

Road Routes in Every Direction

Route 61 is a vehicle traffic road but sits on the route of an old railroad. This makes the Bluefield Century Loop one of the flattest and fasted in the region. The 100.8 mile century loop starts at the Narrows Town Park. There is parking, open restrooms, even a playground and swimming hole in Wolf Creek. Enjoy shade under sycamore trees and picnic beside sweetgum saplings. Traveling down Route 61 on the last part of your trip, you ride alongside Wolf Creek on a gentle slope. The entire loop has rolling hills with one long climb. Historical tidbit, at approximately mile 92 on Route 61 on a side road running parallel, you will find marked graves of the first white settlers in the region.  Another worthy road route is the Elgood Loop. Also starting at the Narrow Town Park off of Monroe Street, just past the downtown business district, this 44.5 mile loop takes the rider west towards Glen Lyn and the West Virginia line. The terrain is explained as ‘long, steep climbs, and switchbacks’ by the New River Valley Bicycle Association.

In Glen Lyn, approximately eight miles away, a new trail system at the Town Park and Campground offers riders plenty of options. There is a convenience store and gas station nearby to refuel and head onto the campground which also borders the New River Water Trail. The Moore Trail is a 4.5 mile paved trail around the open grounds of the park. The newly established Mary Ingles Trail (the MIT) follows the New River downstream for approximately 7 miles before entering into West Virginia. This out and back off-road trail is flat and well maintained. This is one of the few places you can bike alongside New River in a totally undeveloped area. Riders won’t see cars, trains, or electrical lines. They might pass another trail user or see a raft of fishermen floating on the waterway.

Getting Technical on Single Track

Coming back into Narrows, the mountain biking enthusiast can’t miss one of the best trail systems in the region. ‘Up Mill Creek’ as many say, riders will find over 20 miles of trails, plus three waterfalls, and a native trout stream. The Mill Creek Nature Park can be found by turning onto Route 100 in Narrows, then turning onto Northview Street. Traveling to the end of the road, pull into the dirt road and large parking area. From here you can review a map of the property and trails or download one before from the Town of Narrows website. The area has a picnic pavilion and open space to enjoy. Historical tidbit, one of the oldest engineered structures in the region is the dam on Mill Creek at the Appalachian Spur Trail and shelter, a short walk from the parking area. Fall foliage and wildlife abound in the woods and grassy field at Mill Creek. Mountain bikers will find tight single track and accessible double track, with options in-between at this property that is free and open to the public. This area, much like what you will find in the region has no shortage of mountain views, tumbling streams, and vistas to enjoy. Mill Creek Nature Park does have some steep and technical trails that are identified on the map, but worth the attempt.

Mountain biking at Mill Creek Nature Park

 

Just under 19 miles away, mountain bikers can also enjoy the Mountain Lake Wilderness and the off-road action in this vast wilderness area. Visitors to this area can purchase a parking pass and connect with the Mountain Lake Outfitters for maps and suggested routes. This area has over 22 miles of trails throughout the 2,600 acre Wilderness. While at Mountain Lake enjoy Stoney Creek Tavern or Harvest Restaurant. The Mountain Lake Outfitters has rentals available, expanding beyond mountain bikes to include, disc golf equipment and orienteering equipment. Historical tidbit, the film Dirty Dancing was filmed at Mountain Lake 30 years ago.

Competitive Spirit

Giles County is home to multiple spring cycling events that may entice you to come and play. The Spring Up Wolf Creek is hosted by the Narrows Lions Club and is held every spring. The ride is an out and back and follows the Twin Depots Scenic Trail, also known as Route 61. Total distance is 42 miles of flat, flat, flat beautiful spring surroundings. This annual event is great for all riders, families included. The Mountains of Misery bike ride event is a challenging, timed event starting and ending at the Newport Recreation Center on the eastern side of the county. This popular century and double century ride sells out fast and is always a popular late spring event.

 

Planning Your Trip

Take time to enjoy Giles County and the many parks and scenic roadways. The five charming towns, Pembroke, Pearisburg, Narrows, Rich Creek, and Glen Lyn all have public parks to enjoy loop or out and back rides. In the town of Pearisburg you will find ample public parking and residential areas connecting you to the Town Park that also features a one mile River Sculpture Trail. This trail has five permanently installed sculptures created by local and regional artists and made entirely out of debris collected from the New River during the ReNew the New cleanup event. Riders will find Whitt-Riverbend Park just outside of town limits. Parking is available at the Ripplemead Boat Landing, along the New River Water Trail. Restrooms are also available. The park has a paved loop trail and an off-road trail right alongside the New River. Riding from town down to the park is a short 4.5 mile trek, but has a steep grade descending in the park area. In the Village of Newport riders can enjoy access to Route 42, a scenic byway with plenty of parking at the Village Green or Recreation Center. Super Val-U Grocery has Visitor Guides mapping the 30 mile ride to New Castle and back. Swing past the Sinking Covered Bridge on route 601 for a photo and to sign the guest book.

Fishing at The Narrows Town Park

The Town of Narrows in Giles County, Virginia is a must to visit for your biking adventure. One local enthusiast has said Giles has both ends of the spectrum. Something for those looking for ‘easy relaxed’ and ‘adrenaline junkie.’ There are a multitude of resources to help plan your trip to Virginia’s Mountain Playground™. We look forward to seeing you cruise the backroads, enjoy technical terrain, or explore our community parks and public places. To plan your trip, visit these resources:

SWVA Bike logo

 

CategoriesNews by

On or Near the New River Water Trail

Things to do… Giles A > Z

 

Giles County offers a multitude of things to do and places to see. We have something to suit the needs of everyone. Giles County does have an extensive option of outdoor activities: floating on the New River Water Trail, hiking to one of our beautiful waterfalls, or camping by the New River. But, we also have a versatile array of other non-outdoor activities. Whether you want to enjoy an outdoor activity or one of our non-outdoor activities, Giles County will surely have something for you. However, all of the available options can send you down a spiral of online searches that leave you more confused than when you started. To make things a little easier, here is a sampling list of things to do and places to see from A to Z.

 

Andrew Johnston House

This one is for you, history lovers! The Andrew Johnston House in Pearisburg, Virginia is the oldest surviving brick house in Giles County. Today, it is a museum, and it is home to the Giles County Historical Society. Tours are offered when the house is open, and the staff can help with genealogical services in their Research Center. There is also a gift shop to find something to remember your visit.

 

Barney’s Wall

In your search and experience with Giles County, it is likely you have stumbled across or heard of the well-known Cascade Falls hike in Pembroke, Virginia. Barney’s Wall, set directly above the Cascades, offers a scenic mountain view for hikers who are willing to go the extra distance to get there.

 

Corner Market

On your A-Z journey of Giles County, make sure to stop at the Corner Market in Rich Creek, Virginia. You can fill up your gas tank, purchase fresh fruit and vegetables, or grab a quick snack.

OR

Castle Rock Golf Course

Surround by views or the mountains, Castle Rock Golf & Recreation is open to the public with an 18-hole course recently recognized as a top public course in Southwest Virginia. Visit them today, book an event at the 19th Hole, or consider a membership to enjoy the pool and other amenities.

 

Disc Golf

Enjoy an evening of disc golf in the Town of Narrows, Virginia at Camp Success Campground. This disc golf course is comprised of 18 holes located throughout the campground. You are sure to have a good time!

 

Eggleston Springs Campground
Eggleston Springs Campground, located in Eggleston, Virginia, is a great place to camp or access the New River Water Trail for the day for a small fee. It is a family oriented campground that offers some of the best fishing. Bring your tackle and see for yourself!

OR

Eggleston Public Boat Landing

Put your tube, boat, kayak, or canoe on the New River Water Trail access in Eggleston, Virginia. This section of the New River is recognized as one of the most scenic floats in all of Virginia, with the historic Palisades Cliffs downstream on the right of the access ramp.

 

Farmers Markets

In both Narrows and Pearisburg you can find local farmers markets, boasting fresh produce, crafts, events, and activities. In Pearisburg, the Community Market happens every third Thursday beginning in May, at the Pearisburg Community Center. In Narrows, vendors can be set up at the Farmer’s Market from 8 AM to 1 PM on Thursdays and Saturdays April 1st through October 31st. They also host special events on the second Friday’s of the month.

 

Glen Lyn Town Park

In Glen Lyn, Virginia you can find the Glen Lyn Town Park. The park is along the New River Water Trail, and there is a public boat landing next to the RV access inside the park. There is also playground equipment for the youngsters to enjoy. The Glen Lyn Town Park is also home to Giles County’s destination event, the Muddy ACCE Race.

 

Hunting

Giles County contains 92.4 square miles of Jefferson National Forest, so Giles County is often busy in the fall once hunting seasons begin. There is an abundance of whitetail deer, wild turkey, rabbit, and raccoon for hunters and sportsman. Find out more about hunting licenses for the Commonwealth and where to hunt in the Jefferson National Forest.

 

Inn at Riverbend

For those of you looking for a place to relax and unwind on your trip from A to Z, take a stop at the Inn at Riverbend in Pearisburg. The Inn is a bed and breakfast with seven appropriately named rooms for places in Giles County for guest to recharge during their visit. You’ll be sure to enjoy your stay!

Jam Sessions

Music lovers, we even have something for you! On Tuesdays, you can find an old time music jam inside Campo Verde in Pearisburg. Campo Verde is a Mexican-style restaurant. If you’re looking for even more music to enjoy, you can find another old time jam session on Thursdays at the MacArthur Inn. The MacArthur Inn is a historic hotel located in Narrows. These jam sessions are enjoyable and entertaining.

 

Kelly Knob Overlook

To get to Kelly Knob Overlook, you hike two miles along the Appalachian Trail near Newport, Virginia. Once you get to the overlook, there are beautiful views to enjoy. The elevation is from 3,300 to 3,800 feet, and the hike is considered to be of moderate difficulty.

 

Lovework

Virginia is for Lovers! You can find two LOVEwork displays for a fun photo opportunity in two of our beautiful communities! One is in Newport at the Newport Recreation and Community Center. The other one is at the Mill Pond, also known as the Duck Pond, in Narrows. Stop by and enjoy the creativity that went into these displays, and snap a quick picture while you’re at it to share on social media. (Be sure to use #GilesCoVA & #LoveVA)

 

Motorcycle Tours

Great views intertwined with a fun ride! GearHead Moto Tours located in Pearisburg can give you just that. They can help you with a rental, or you can bring your own bike. They take care of everything, like lodging, dining, and getting you to the beautiful views, so all you have to do is enjoy the ride.

New River Water Trail

Giles County is home to 37 beautiful miles of the New River Water Trail. There are many public and private access points to get on the river. River guests can enjoy tubing, canoeing, rafting, swimming, standup paddle boarding, fishing, and kayaking. There are outfitters and guides who can help you rent gear and guide your trip along the stunning New River.

 

Oktoberfest at Mountain Lake Lodge

Oktoberfest at Mountain Lake Lodge is a yearly event that promises authentic food, beverages, and entertainment for those who come out to enjoy the weekend. Although no details have been released as of yet for Oktoberfest 2017, we are waiting anxiously to hear about the details for this year’s good time event!

 

Palisades Restaurant

The Palisades Restaurant, located in the former Pyne’s General Store, in Eggleston offers contemporary, sophisticated cuisine with southern hospitality. Most of their pork, beef, trout, and produce are locally grown in the New River Valley. The Palisades offers dinner daily and Sunday brunch. Plus catch live music every weekend!

 

Queen’s Pizza and Subs

Another yummy place to eat on our tour from A to Z is Queen’s Pizza and Subs. With locations in Pearisburg and Rich Creek, it is convenient to grab a pizza, burger, or sub to enjoy on your trip through Giles County. You can dine in, carry out, or have your food delivered to where you are staying.

 

Right Turn, Clyde Brewery

Right Turn, Clyde Brewery is a local brewery located in Narrows in a former bank building. The owners make every attempt to bring the best quality and most interesting beer to their patrons. They also work with local farmers and bee keepers to support the local economy when crafting their delicious beer. Stop by for a taste!

 

Sinking Creek Bridge

The Sinking Creek Bridge is located in Newport. The bridge has been standing since 1916, making the bridge over 100 years old! The bridge is 70 feet, and a bright, beautiful red color. Because of its beauty, it has been the subject of many photographs and paintings throughout the years. It is open to the public for you to enjoy on your trip from A to Z.

Treasure Island

Located within the Pembroke Park in the Town of Pembroke, Treasure Island playground is sure to make the youngsters on your trip happy. This playground will be loads of fun for them as they run, climb, and play. Pembroke Park also has a walking trail and a picnic shelter to enjoy on your visit.

 

Underground Caving

The Giles County Historical Society has held an informational session about Giant Caverns in the summer of 2016. The Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation also will hold occasional caving opportunities for experienced cavers to enter caves. Giles has over 250 registered caves. Please be respectful and extremely cautious when considering entering a cave. All caves require permission to enter from landowners.

 

Virginias Walk Trail

The Virginias Walk Trail in White Rocks Campground meanders 1.3 miles around the campground. Its name comes from the fact that the trail travels from Virginia into West Virginia and back again. The trail begins at campsite #9 and ends at campsite #26. It is a pleasant stroll to enjoy!

 

Walker Creek Retreat

Walker Creek Retreat is situated along nearly a mile of unspoiled creek frontage of Walker Creek in Pembroke. There are five waterfront vacation rentals with rustic-chic cabin décor. This is the perfect retreat for those looking for a peaceful place to stay on their journey from A to Z in Giles County.

X Country Skiing

Yes, we even have something that begins with the letter X! Cross country skiing, or X country skiing, is something to enjoy during the wintertime in Giles County. The Mountain Lake Conservancy has areas for skiers to enjoy. The Jefferson National Forest can also be a place you may see skiers enjoying the terrain.

 

Yoga

Need some time to relax? The Giles County Wellness Center offers group yoga classes, as well as many others group exercise classes. The Wellness Center also has cardiovascular equipment, free weights, weight machines, and full locker room facilities for gym guests to use.

 

Zorb Racing at Mountain Lake Lodge

Our last stop from A to Z in Giles County is Zorb racing at Mountain Lake Lodge. You climb into giant bubble balls to roll around the adventure center, in a similar fashion to a hamster in a hamster ball. You can also race an opponent thought the Zorb Racing Course. Hop in for a spin!