White blaze on the Appalachian Trail in rhododendron bloom

Tag: Livability Magazine

  • All Hail the Appalachian Trail

    All Hail the Appalachian Trail

    White blaze on the Appalachian Trail in rhododendron bloom
    Appalachian Trail hiker backpacks outside the Damascus Diner

    Hiker-Friendly Communities

    Washington County is where it’s at for A.T. hikers and other outdoor enthusiasts.

    They say a journey of 1,000 miles – or in the case of the Appalachian Trail, 2,198 miles – begins with a single step. But at some point, even the hardiest hiker needs to take a break from all that stepping. And one of the best places to rest and recharge on the A.T. is Washington County.

    Not only is Washington County widely regarded as one of the most hiker-friendly communities along the Appalachian Trail, the town of Damascus is among only three communities on the entire trail in which the A.T. passes directly through a downtown. As a result, businesses throughout the area, including in nearby towns such as Abingdon and Glade Spring, make an extra effort to welcome the travelers.

    “Hikers are some of the best people you’ll ever meet,” says Ralph Wilson, who owns both Damascus Diner and Dragonfly Inn. “They’re very in tune with the environment. When they say leave no trace and have no worries, those are not cliches to them. They live by it. They may be a little dirty and smelly when they get here, but when they leave, we make sure they’re all good.” One way Wilson does that is by offering hikers what he calls “trail magic” in the form of cookies and brownies… 

    …Whether hikers are making a brief stop while passing through or staying for a longer visit, there is plenty to see and do in Washington County. Here is a sample of what’s available. Consider it a step-by-step guide to exploring the region.

    Appalachian Trail thru-hikers walking in front of The Bike Station in Damascus, VA

    Get Informed

    The new Damascus Trail Center, a collaboration between the town and the Appalachian Trail Conservancy, provides visitors with a wide range of outdoor resources available throughout the region, including information about area attractions, backcountry skills and trail conservation. “The Trail Center is able to highlight and amplify everything that we have around us,” says Julie Kroll, recreation program director for the Town of Damascus. “You can pick up local maps, find out about local activities and get local advice. It’s a great place for uniting visitors and locals and connecting them with our outdoor recreation resources.”

    Stock Up

    There are several outdoor stores throughout the region for replenishing your gear, including Damascus Outfitters. Adventure Damascus Bike Rental & Shuttle Co. is among the businesses that offer shuttle service to area trailheads. “We truly cater to outdoor recreation here and have everything that folks would need,” Kroll says.

    Chow Down

    A lengthy hike can certainly work up an ample appetite. The Damascus Diner serves tasty meals seven days a week, from eggs and French toast in the morning to burgers and veggies throughout the day. “Hikers aren’t shy when they come in to eat,” Wilson says. “Sometimes they’ll eat more than one meal at a time.” The diner neighbors coffee shops, craft beverage destinations and other local restaurants. Appalachian Heritage Distillery helps hikers keep their spirits up, highlighted by their award-winning vodka. And when it comes time to venture back onto the trail, you can pick up groceries at Food City. 

    Washington County celebrates the outdoors with the annual Appalachian Trail Days event, held in May. Known as a “tramily” (trail family) reunion, more than 20,000 people regularly make the trek to Damascus for three days of music, food and camaraderie.

    “It’s one big celebration of the Appalachian Trail and hiker culture,” Kroll says. “It’s a chance to show what a friendly community we are, and how we’re all focused on the trails that pass through here.”

    This article, All Hail the Appalachian Trail, was first published in the 2024 issue of Livability magazine. Sponsored by the Washington County Chamber of Commerce. Learn more at Livability Washington County.

  • Mountain Magic

    Mountain Magic

    fall colors from Trestle 16 on the Virginia Creeper Trail

    A Haven for Outdoor Enthusiasts

    Mountain Magic: Outdoor enthusiasts praise the region’s abundance of nature.

    Washington County is a prime location for outdoors enthusiasts of all levels. At the intersection of several famous trail systems, the region is a desirable destination for anyone seeking to live closer to nature and be a part of a community full of adventurers. 

    As a lifelong Damascus resident, Michael Wright has made a living promoting Washington County’s outdoor wonders through his local businesses. He owns and operates Adventure Damascus Bicycles, Damascus Outfitters, and Trailhead Designs, as well as Hellbender’s Cafe on the Virginia Creeper Trail. The area’s prime location amid the Appalachian Mountains brings with it an abundance of outdoor amenities. Hikers can hop onto portions of the Appalachian Trail, which cuts through the area, or the Virginia Creeper Trail, offering over 34 miles of multiuse paths. 

    “Damascus is truly a haven for outdoor enthusiasts,” Wright says.

    Hiker on the Appalachian Trail on a sunny winter day
    Family biking on the Virginia Creeper Trail in early fall

    Appalachian Bound

    Living among the natural beauty of the area has allowed Wright to build a life and career in the outdoors industry, from opening the first full-service bike shop on the Virginia Creeper Trail to a high-quality outfitter for Appalachian Trail hikers. “I have been able to create many jobs, make a living and raise a family in the small community I grew up in,” Wright says. “I have also felt that it was my duty to try and share the beauty of the area and help create some fun memories for as many visitors as I can.”

    Damascus has become known as the “Friendliest Town on the Appalachian Trail.” This is due in part to the number of amenities for thru-hikers making the journey from Georgia to Maine. Damascus Outfitters carries all the essentials a hiker might need, along with fun souvenirs to remember the journey by. 

    The Damascus Trail Center, in collaboration with the Appalachian Trail Conservancy, helps educate visitors about the history and significance of the trail and Damascus’ role in stewarding the land. 

    Wright sees proximity to nature and outdoor opportunities as essential to the overall health of individuals and their communities. “Our walkaable communities and our local trail systems help to improve a person’s mind and body,” Wright says. 

    While the area’s natural beauty alone is enough to draw visitors, its hospitality is what makes people want to stay. The “Friendliest Town on the Appalachian Trail” doesn’t just cater to hikers. It’s for anyone with an appreciation and desire to connect with its natural abundance. “Washington County is not just a place to live – it’s a place to thrive,” says Wright.

    Backbone Rock near Damascus Virginia
    Wild ponies along Wilburn Ridge on the Appalachian Trail near Damascus

    Local Favorites

    Mount Rogers is Virginia’s highest peak. The hike offers views not only of the surrounding mountains but of the wild ponies that reside there. Hikers can also enjoy a short trek to Buzzard Rock on Whitetop Mountain. For a fun bike trek, start out at Hellbender’s Cafe in Taylors Valley and ride to Straight Branch. Or, for an easy day out, Wright suggests a picnic at Backbone Rock.

    Livability Magazine, Washington County

    This article, Mountain Magic, was first published in the 2025 issue of Livability magazine. Sponsored by the Washington County Chamber of Commerce. Learn more at Livability Washington County.