Smyth County is home to some pretty amazing sights. In our friendly mountain county, you’ll find Virginia’s highest peak, oldest state park, curviest motorcycle route, and “America’s Coolest Hometown.” Just a few more reasons why you should plan a visit to Smyth County.

Here, visitors can enjoy an evening at a drive-in theatre, a day cruising the Back of the Dragon, a world-class fly-fishing expedition or a relaxing respite at a grand historic hotel. Many explore Mount Rogers National Recreation Area, traversed by the famed Virginia Creeper Trail and a scenic byway offering views of mountain balds, roaming ponies and spruce forests. Others explore Hungry Mother State Park, a long-time Virginia favorite, known for beautiful woodlands and a placid 108-acre lake in the heart of the mountains. With its alpine-like peaks, scenic vistas and herd of wild ponies, Grayson Highlands State Park is also a favorite.

The downtowns here offer a portrait of authentic Americana. Marion, the county seat, has been dubbed “America’s Coolest Hometown” and its streets are filled with independent restaurants and locally owned retail shops. It’s also home to the Lincoln Theatre, built in 1929, which is the setting for famed PBS series, “Song of the Mountains.” In Saltville, there are stories from the Ice Age and beyond at the Museum of the Middle Appalachians. In Chilhowie, visitors can explore the architecture of the historic H.L. Bonham House and take a walk on the downtown trail.