“My love for fishing has never failed me,” says Alan Necessary, owner of Washington County’s successful supply store, Appalachian Baits. “It’s such a stress reliever for me. Whether you catch a fish or not, it gets your mind off any other problems you may have in life.”
Mountainous terrain stretches across Southwest Virginia, carving some of the most coveted rivers and streams for fishing enthusiasts near and far. The shimmering scales of various freshwater fish, like bass, trout, walleye and musky, attract anglers from all over the country.
Generational Anglers
Around this region, a wholesome love for fishing seems almost like a common trait passed down within families. “My grandfather, my dad and my entire family have all been trout fishermen,” Necessary says.
Bruce Wankel, who opened Virginia Creeper Fly Shop in 1994, offers similar sentiments toward the familial feeling. “Growing up, my family thought fishing was the most fun a person could have,” he says. “And it seemed like there was always something interesting going on around the local streams, rivers and TVA lakes where we fished.”
It’s important to acknowledge, as locals will remind you, that fishing is clearly a cherished and traditional sport in the Washington County area. It’s not merely about gain or competition. This is immersing yourself in the simplicity of nature and spending time with the people you care about. Why not backdrop those memories with some gorgeous Appalachian scenery?
Activities Bait Attention
The key to the increasing popularity of Washington County streams and lakes? It may have something to do with the growing number of outdoorsy businesses, campsites and public trails.
“I purposefully suggest folks in my audience to come and stay not just for a day of guided fly-fishing with us, but to put together a plan for a long weekend, or better yet, a full week of activities in the area,” Wankel says.
Perhaps the easiest way to blend an outdoorsy vacation with a fishing agenda is to visit the Virginia Creeper Trail in Damascus. Each year, over 150,000 people head to the picturesque 34-mile bike trail. “You’ll see a lot of bike riders on the Creeper Trail that have fly rods or spinning equipment on their backs. Just about everywhere along the trail, there’s some sort of stream beside it,” Necessary says.
While in the area, be sure to watch for festivals and competitive fishing derbies to catch some angler action. After reeling ‘em in, Washington County features a roster of restaurants, art galleries, theaters and live-music venues for your itinerary.
Fishing Hot Spots
“There’s such a wide variety of fish in this county, alone. You can fish the rivers, lakes and mountain streams to target just about any species of freshwater fish that you want to catch,” Necessary says. A few of the most recognizable spots in Southwest Virginia and Northeast Tennessee are South Holston Lake, Whitetop Laurel Creek, Beaverdam Creek and Beartree Lake.
Whitetop Laurel Creek is a hot spot for trout – rainbow, brown, brook and wild trout. In addition, Big Tumbling Creek is deliberately stocked three to four times a week with trout during the warm seasons. It’s another gem for anglers – perhaps even the most far-reaching. “I was just at Big Tumbling today and met a guy that had traveled from Ohio. He’s staying here for a week just to fish Big Tumbling,” Necessary says.
The combination of abundant fishing opportunities, breathtaking scenery and a welcoming community creates an experience unlike any other. Those who cast a line in this part of Appalachia will not only leave with memories that will last a lifetime, but also a deep appreciation for the natural beauty and rich traditions that define this region.
This article, Reeled In, was first published in the 2025 issue of Livability magazine. Sponsored by the Washington County Chamber of Commerce.Learn more at Livability Washington County.
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.
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.
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.
Tips for the trail –All trails lead to Damascus, Virginia! We have hundreds of miles of trails for you to explore right in our backyard.
At the edge of town, Mount Rogers National Recreation Areastretches as far as the eye can see, across the highest peaks in the state, over mountain balds and spruce-fir forests, trout streams, and more than 400 miles of trail. Find paths less traveled in Cherokee National Forest just south of town. In the heart of Damascus, you’ll find the Virginia Creeper Trail, one of the most famous biking trails in the United States. Take a shuttle to the top and enjoy the scenic ride back down through the forest from Whitetop Station.
To make the most of your time on the trails around Damascus, VA, it’s important to be kind, be aware, and be prepared. Here’s some local advice:
1.) Trail Tip: BE Kind
Be respectful of other visitors and their experiences. (And remember, we are all visitors on the trail!).
Leave your bluetooth speaker at home and listen to the sounds of nature.
Leash and control your pets. Pack out pet waste.
Share the trail: Bikes should always yield to hikers and horses. Downhill yields to uphill traffic.
2.) Trail Tip: Be Aware
Safety first: Notice your surroundings. Always know your location.
Watch out for wildlife and give them plenty of space. Do not feed wildlife or leave food unattended.
Littering on trails is often accidental (at least, we hope!). If you bring something with you, pack it out too.
Reduce your impact by staying on designated trails, roads, and campsites.
In downtown Damascus, please walk bicycles when using the sidewalks.
3.) Trail Tip: Be Prepared
Know the weather forecast. The weather varies and changes more quickly at higher elevations.
Bring the essentials: clothing layers, food and water, navigation, and a first aid kit.
Don’t count on having cellphone service outside of town.
Make a plan with your group and stay together. If traveling alone, let someone know your trip plan.
Make theDamascus Trail Centeryour first stop downtown to pick up local maps, find must-do activities nearby to add to your trip itinerary, and learn more about hitting the trails responsibly.
Happy Trails!
Trail Alerts & Closures
Be sure to check for the latest updates on alerts and trail conditions around Damascus, Virginia. Know before you go.
We are thankful for the groups that spend countless volunteer hours in stewardship to help maintain our trails. We encourage you to support and join their efforts. If you are just visiting, we recommend connecting with your local trail clubs and organizations at home.
Get the latest trail updates for alerts and trail conditions around Damascus, Virginia. Know before you go. More information below on current conditions, including:
Virginia Creeper Trail: OPEN from Abingdon to Damascus
Virginia Creeper Trail: CLOSED upper half, set to reopen March 31, 2027
Appalachian Trail closure, detour, and shuttle options for 2026 season
New Burn Ban in Mount Rogers High Country
Beartree Lake Restoration Project in 2025-26
Feb-Apr: Virginia’s 4 PM Burning Law
This is Trail Town USA. Several major trails pass through the heart of Damascus, including the Appalachian Trail and Virginia Creeper Trail. Nearby are multi-use trails and motorized routes in Mount Rogers National Recreation Area, George Washington-Jefferson National Forest in Virginia, Cherokee National Forest in Tennessee, and Grayson Highlands State Park.
Although the upper half of the Virginia Creeper Trail remains closed in the 2026 season, Damascus has many miles of other open trails nearby! Make Damascus, Virginia your basecamp for adventure. Check out some of our favorites in the region, from Grayson Highlands State Park in Mouth of Wilson, to one of our other neighboring rail-trails, the Mendota Trail in Bristol.
Looking to put in some big miles? Set your sights on the Appalachian Trail, Grayson Gravel Traverse, Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail, or TransVirginia Bike Route.
National Forest Maps
No signal? No problem! The new National Forests and Grasslands app by the Forest Service features offline maps, safety alerts, and a comprehensive set of recreation sites and trails – all for free. Download maps before you go:
Half of the Virginia Creeper Trail is OPEN, from the Start to the Heart, Abingdon to Damascus, about 17 miles. Our bike outfitters are providing rental and shuttle services for the Abingdon to Damascus section. Now open to e-bikes as well!
The upper half of the Virginia Creeper Trail, from Whitetop Station to Damascus, saw significant damage from Hurricane Helene in September 2024. The trail remains closed until it is rebuilt and is set to reopen on March 31st, 2027. There is no access to the Virginia Creeper Trail past Damascus at this time.
Work Zone: Please be alert to signage and barricades on the trail, and respect trail closures, for the safety of both the public and work crews. Closed area strictly enforced.
View all Closed Trails & Developed Recreation Sites near the Virginia Creeper Trail
Closed Trails & Developed Recreation Sites
Virginia Creeper National Recreation Trail, Forest Service Trail (FST) 4575, from Trestle 16 in Damascus to the North Carolina-Virginia state line just past Whitetop Station
Appalachian Trail from Highway 58 at Straight Branch Trailhead to Grassy Ridge Road/VA 859 (Northbound miles 476.6.0 to 485.8)
Whitetop Laurel Fishing Trail (FST 4645)
Taylors Valley Spur (FST 4651)
Creek Junction Trailhead
Straight Branch Trailhead
Whitetop Station Parking Lot and Trailhead
Green Cove Parking Lot and Facility
The Whitetop Station Visitor Center and Green Cove Station Visitor Center remain closed as well.
Virginia Creeper Trail Set to Reopen March 31, 2027
The Forest Service has announced that the Virginia Creeper Trail is expected to fully reopen on March 31, 2027. The Virginia Creeper Trail is a backbone of the local outdoor economy. The trail brings thousands of riders, families and visitors to Damascus, Abingdon and communities throughout Southwest Virginia each year. Now residents, outfitters, and nearby businesses have a clear timeline so they can plan ahead for next year’s tourism season.
The Town of Damascus, Virginia was delighted to celebrate the groundbreaking of the upper half of the Virginia Creeper Trail, on December 18, 2025, alongside the US Forest Service, Kiewit Infrastructure South Co., the Commonwealth of Virginia, and many regional partners and community members. This day marked a significant milestone in our recovery from Hurricane Helene in September 2024. As Mayor Lamb says, “We’re coming back better than we’ve ever been!” A year from now, we look forward to celebrating the ribbon-cutting with you. In the meantime, half of the Virginia Creeper Trail remains open, from the Start to the Heart, Abingdon to Damascus.
Virginia Creeper Trail Rebuild Contract
Virginia Creeper Trail Rebuild Contract
The Forest Service announced the award of the design-build contract for the Virginia Creeper Trail to Kiewit Corporation of Peachtree City, Georgia. This contract is valued at $240,580,432.12. This is for the full rebuild of the devastated upper 17-mile section of the trail between Damascus and Whitetop Station. This section of the trail remains under strict closure for the duration of the construction period, until otherwise noted. Estimated completion in Fall 2026. (posted Nov. 6)
Further updates will be shared here as they become available. Kiewit plans to share regular updates on its project website as well, linked below:
There is an Appalachian Trail closure and detour just north of Damascus in 2026. This closed area is strictly enforced. The trail is closed for 9.2 miles due to construction on the Virginia Creeper Trail. The closure area goes from US-58 at Straight Branch Trailhead to Grassy Ridge Road/VA 859. (Northbound miles 476.6.0 to 485.8). US-58 roadwalk NOT recommended. The Forest Service and Appalachian Trail Conservancy have two recommended detours for hikers.
A.T. Detour & Shuttle Options
Long distance hikers can bypass the closed area via other trails nearby.
Northbound detour: Follow the Iron Mountain Trail from Damascus to the Flat Top Trail and Mount Rogers Trail. Reconnect with the Appalachian Trail at Deep Gap, 2 miles south of the Thomas Knob Shelter.
Southbound detour: Follow the Mount Rogers Trail. Two miles south of Thomas Knob Shelter, hike from Deep Gap to the Flat Top Trail and Iron Mountain Trail. Reconnect with the Appalachian Trail in Damascus.
Hikers can also arrange a shuttle around the closed section. Recommended shuttle is from Damascus to Grassy Ridge Road/VA 859 or to US-58 at Summit Cut.
With these recommended detour or shuttle options, hikers can still experience the beautiful Mount Rogers High Country. Additionally, the Iron Mountain Trail was originally part of the Appalachian National Scenic Trail until 1972. Historic shelters remain available for overnight use.
Important Notes for multi-use
Wear blaze orange. The Iron Mountain Trail is open to hunting. This includes the use of hunting dogs.
Sections of the Iron Mountain Trail are multi-use. Stay alert and share the trail. Mountain biking, equestrian, and motorized use are allowed in some areas.
Note: This trail closure is partway between Damascus and the Whitetop Mountain/Elk Garden area. Hikers traveling between town and the Mount Rogers High Country must plan an alternate route for the 2026 season.
The Forest Service has issued fire restrictions for the Appalachian Trail through the Mount Rogers High Country. This burn ban is from Beech Mountain Road to Massie Gap (NOBO mile 489.4 to 502.4). Creating and maintaining campfires is prohibited. Use extreme caution with camp stoves and smoking. Pack out all trash.
This area is home to rare and critically imperiled southern spruce-fir forest. A host of rare, threatened, and endangered species depend on this forest. Hurricane Helene left behind storm debris and downed trees, creating the perfect fuel for wildfires to spread quickly. Follow these fire restrictions to help protect this unique ecosystem.
This burn ban (shown in red) is for all areas within a quarter mile of the Appalachian Trail.
Beartree Lake has been drained and organic material is being removed from the lakebed. No fishing, swimming, or paddling. The bathrooms by the beach are closed. Potable water will not be available for the 2026 season. The picnic area and group picnic pavilion are closed. Portable toilets are available at the beach area parking lot, the group picnic pavilion, and the fishermen’s parking lot. This project will continue into the 2026 season.
The Chipmunk Loop at Beartree Campground will be open for camping starting on Thursday, May 13, 2026. Bathrooms and showers remain closed. All sites are first-come, first-served. $24 per site, per night.
Grindstone Campground and its parking area is closed for the remainder of the 2026 season. The Forest Service will replace aging infrastructure and repair damage caused by Hurricane Helene. For Safety reasons please limit entry into the construction area.
Alternative parking: Across from Fox Creek Horse Campground 36.696628, -81.5326411 At the Mount Rogers Trailhead 36.689230, -81.532605
Virginia’s 4 PM Burning Law
Virginia’s 4 PM Burning Law is in effect from February 15 through April 30 each year. It is important to note that some localities may have even more restrictive regulations on outdoor burning than the state’s 4 PM Burning Law. All burners are encouraged to check with their locality before starting any outdoor burning.
The 4 PM Burning Law bans open-air burning prior to 4:00 p.m. if the fire is within 300 feet of the woods or dry grass which could carry fire to the woods. Burning is allowed between 4:00 p.m. and midnight as long as the burner takes proper precautions and attends the fire at all times.
A Trail of Two Cities: What could be better than famous trails and friendly small towns? Check out the Blue Ridge Outdoors 2022 Top Adventure Town winners Abingdon and Damascus, Virginia for some of the best trails in the Southeast, and stay for the southern charm.
The Virginia Creeper Trail
A rail-trail that has it all, the Virginia Creeper Trail (VCT), offers countless adventures for the whole family. The trail runs 34.3 miles from Abingdon through Damascus to the border of Virginia and North Carolina at Whitetop Station. This “hub and spoke” trail connects to some of the best trail recreation in the southeast United States. To make life easier, there are eight local bike outfitters who provide shuttle services! Biking, hiking, trail running, and even cross country skiing are just some of the activities found on this multi-award winning route. The Virginia Creeper Trail also offers trailside access to trout streams and swimming holes, from Whitetop Laurel to South Holston Lake.
At the eastern end of the Virginia Creeper Trail, check out Mount Rogers National Recreation Area. It has over 500 miles of trails to explore, including Mount Rogers itself, at an altitude of more than 5,700 feet. Continue your trek through Grayson Highlands State Park. You’ll meet wild ponies in the Wilburn Ridge area and admire the surrounding alpine-like peaks. Nearby, drive or hike up Whitetop Mountain. It’s the second highest mountain in Virginia at 5,520 feet high. Or, if you’re up for a challenge, bike the whole 34 mile trail from Whitetop to Abingdon. For some serious adventure, consider the various connecting trails. You can make longer loops for multi-day backpacking and bikepacking routes.
Group biking the Virginia Creeper Trail
The Friendliest Town on the Trail
In Damascus, the “Friendliest Town on the Trail”, the Appalachian Trail (A.T.) runs right along the sidewalk downtown. Before your adventure, head to Damascus Diner for a comforting breakfast. End the day with local spirits at Appalachian Heritage Distillery.
Rest up at the plentiful lodging opportunities in the area. Sleep under the stars at Hidden Valley Lake and Backbone Rock. Both towns are also designated “A.T. Communities.” Be sure to stop by their visitor and trail centers for information and recommendations!
Get out and discover the welcoming trails and culture in and around Abingdon and Damascus, Virginia. We promise you’ll want to return again and again!
A Trail of Two Cities trip itinerary was first published in the February 2023 issue of Blue Ridge Outdoors magazine.
Let’s take a road trip to Trail Town USA! Just a few miles off I-81, Damascus, Virginia is a hidden gem for road trippers seeking a family-friendly, affordable getaway. It’s even become a surprising spring break stopover for travelers from the Great Lakes and Canada en route to the coast. With its walkable, bikeable downtown, and direct access to both the Appalachian Trail and Virginia Creeper Trail, Damascus offers more than a quick stop — it’s a launchpad for unforgettable mountain adventures.
The Road to Outdoor Exploration
This road trip season comes with exciting news. The long-anticipated reopening of US-58 just past Damascus is happening six months ahead of schedule in late May. Known as the Mount Rogers Scenic Byway, this stretch of road once again connects travelers to iconic outdoor destinations like Mount Rogers National Recreation Area and Grayson Highlands State Park!
Also known as Trail Town USA, Damascus is an outdoor paradise with something for everyone. The 17-mile Virginia Creeper Trail is now open to e-bikes, offering scenic rides from Abingdon to Damascus. Whitetop Mountain, home to Virginia’s highest road, provides stunning views and popular hiking on the Appalachian Trail. The peak, at 5,525 feet, is also perfect for sunrise, sunset, and stargazing. Damascus is a central hub for dual-sport motorcyclists, connecting the Mid-Atlantic and new Southeast Backcountry Discovery Routes from Florida to the NY-PA state line.
Support Local
Damascus has plenty to offer, from the hearty, homestyle meals at The Damascus Diner to the lively atmosphere at The Tipsy Bear, with trivia, karaoke, and a Sunday Bloody Mary Bar. Explore quirky shops like Green Cove Collective and [Traildog & Co.], plus classics like Sundog Outfitter. Stay at The Speckled Trout Outpost, a boutique hotel on Laurel Avenue, and don’t miss Appalachian Heritage Distillery & Brewery, known as the only legal distillery on the Appalachian Trail.
Proximity – How Far to Trail Town USA
Knoxville, TN – 140 miles SW
Raleigh, NC – 240 miles SE
Atlanta, GA – 330 miles SW
Trail Town USA Pitstop!
Just 4 miles from Damascus, Backbone Rock is home to the world’s shortest tunnel. This is a popular spot for picnics, trout fishing, and swimming holes. It also features a campground and short hikes to the rock’s summit and a waterfall.
The Trail Town USA Road Trip itinerary was first published in the June 2025 issue of Blue Ridge Outdoors magazine.
Go outside and play — Damascus is a small town in Southwest Virginia with a big claim to fame as Trail Town USA and the heart of the Virginia Creeper Trail. As the Friendliest Town on the Trail, it welcomes adventurers hiking the Appalachian Trail or exploring Virginia’s highest peaks. With miles of trout streams and endless outdoor opportunities, there’s an adventure for everyone here.
Morning
Start your day with an early wake-up at River Trail Inn and head to Whitetop Mountain to catch a breathtaking sunrise from 5,525’ elevation. Afterward, enjoy a hearty breakfast at Wilson’s Cafe & Grill, where you can savor daily specials or indulge in shrimp and grits anytime. Next, stop by the Damascus Trail Center to learn about the area’s rich outdoor history before visiting Damascus Outfitters, the perfect spot to gear up – just steps from the Appalachian Trail.
Afternoon
Kick off the afternoon with a dose of nostalgia at The Dairy King, a local favorite for classic treats. Then, experience the Virginia Creeper Trail on a ride from Abingdon to Damascus, known as the “Start to the Heart.” Rent a bike from one of the town’s outfitters and take a shuttle, then enjoy the scenic journey back to Damascus at your own pace.
Evening
Unwind with dinner at Wicked Chicken Winghouse & Tavern, where you can enjoy delicious wings, outdoor seating, and live music on weekends – all in a pet-friendly atmosphere. Then, cap off the night with a visit to Appalachian Heritage Distillery & Brewery, where you can sip locally crafted spirits and brews while soaking in the town’s welcoming vibe.
Bucket List Item: Trail Days
Experience the Appalachian Trail Days Festival – Held the weekend after Mother’s Day, this iconic festival celebrates the Appalachian Trail with hiker reunions, live music, the infamous hiker parade, and so much more!
The Go Outside and Play trip itinerary was first published in the April 2025 issue of Blue Ridge Outdoors magazine.
Find your way to adventure in Damascus, Virginia. There is an adventure for everyone here, from family-friendly biking on the Virginia Creeper Trail to hiking the highest peaks in the state, and everything in between.
Also known as Trail Town USA, the Appalachian Trail enters the state of Virginia just a few miles outside of Damascus, then runs down the sidewalk of Main Street. The Virginia Creeper Trail stretches across the middle of town two blocks to the south. Wheeled tourists pass through on the TransAmerican and TransVirginia road cycling routes, as well as the Virginia Bird and Wildlife Trail, Crooked Road, Boone Trail Highway, and South East (SEBDR) and Mid-Atlantic Backcountry Discovery Route (MABDR) motor routes. Damascus is a gateway town to Mount Rogers, the highest peak in the state of Virginia, at an elevation of 5,729 feet.
Choose Your Adventure
Before you hit the trail, stop by theDamascus Trail Center. The center opened in 2022 as a partnership between the Town of Damascus and the Appalachian Trail Conservancy (ATC). Friendly staff are available to answer questions and connect visitors with a wide range of outdoor resources across the region.
The Virginia Creeper Trailis one of the most famous biking trails in the country. This scenic trail is a top pick and attracts an estimated 200,000 visitors per year. Book a shuttle with any of the eight bike outfitters in town. Cruise downhill along the scenic 17-mile section from Whitetop Station back to Damascus. The trail is beginner-friendly. It passes through Jefferson National Forest on a relaxed railroad grade. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, bring along a fishing pole or swimsuit and plan for a few extra stops along the way.
Mount Rogers National Recreation Area
At the edge of town, step into Mount Rogers National Recreation Area. This 200,000 acre tract of public land includes four wilderness areas, elevations of over 5,000 feet, and over 500 miles of trails. In addition to the Appalachian Trail and Virginia Creeper Trail, find backcountry horseback riding on the Virginia Highlands Horse Trail. Find ridgeline mountain biking and trail running on the Iron Mountain Trail. Drive the highest road in the state to the summit of Whitetop Mountain for unbeatable sunset views. Hike among wild ponies on the high elevation balds at nearby Grayson Highlands State Park for sweeping 360-degree views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Although Damascus gets a lot of hype for its trails, one of its best-kept secrets is the abundant waterfront access. Trout streams Whitetop Laurel, Tennessee Laurel, and Beaverdam Creek all converge in town to form the South Fork of the Holston River. Whitewater boaters love to chase the seasonal flows of Whitetop Laurel Creek and the milder South Fork of the Holston. Flatwater paddling can be found at Beartree Lake and South Holston Lake. Accessible fishing spots are located at Creek Junction Accessible Fishing Trail and Beartree Lake. There are cold, clear swimming holes around nearly every bend, both along the Virginia Creeper Trail and at Backbone Rock Recreation Area.
Looking to try something new? Let the locals be your guide and choose from guided fly fishing with [Stone Fly Co.], horseback riding with Appalachian Horseback Riding Adventures, or [stop by Damascus Outfitters] to check about a hiker shuttle.
Explore Downtown
Pick up your morning coffee at [Wilson’s Cafe] or [The Coffee Thief].For a heartier sit-down breakfast, the Damascus Diner is the best around. From May to October, stop by the Damascus Farmers Market for your pick of produce and fresh-baked snacks.
At the end of the day, refuel at one of the local restaurants. The first stop off of the Virginia Creeper Trail is Wicked Chicken Winghouse and Tavern, known for its sandwiches, wraps, bowls, and wings. Swing by [The Tipsy Bear] for wings, burgers, wood-fired pizza, and more. For upscale dining, have a seat on the waterfront patio at the Damascus Old Mill Inn and order the filet mignon or blackened trout.
Ice cream before dinner? Find a wide selection of hand-dipped ice cream flavors at both Wicked Chicken and [The Coffee Thief]. If you don’t want to wait until you get back to town, stop halfway down the Virginia Creeper Trail in Taylors Valley at Hellbender’s Cafe.
Take your pick of spirits and cocktails at Appalachian Heritage Distillery, the only (legal) distillery on the entire Appalachian Trail. Grab a local beer at The Damascus Brewery. Both watering holes are dog-friendly. Find rotating taps at most of the restaurants and a bourbon bar at the Damascus Old Mill Inn. Follow the sound of music to discover new artists along main street on most weekends.
Extend Your Stay
Damascus boasts a variety of lodging options and a long list of reasons to extend your stay. Choose from traditional bed and breakfasts, cabins, RV and tent camping, hostels, and a boutique hotel. Most of the lodging is just a short walk or bike to downtown – a different kind of park and ride.
Popular bed and breakfasts include Lady Di’s B&B, Barrett House Riverside Lodging, and [Wheeler’s Inn]. Not only do you get a place to sleep and a delicious meal, but you can also expect an extra dose of small-town hospitality and invaluable local knowledge.
Find your home away from home at one of the many vacation rentals in town. For larger groups, book multiple cabins at Damascus Cabins or Creeper Trail Cottages, or stay together at the six-bedroom Virginia Creeper Lodge. For a unique boutique hotel experience, [The Speckled Trout Outpost] offers thirteen suites and charming amenities right on main street.
Bring your own lodging to Damascus Creekside RV Park or Laurel Creek RV Park. Find more private, scenic campgrounds nearby at Backbone Rock Recreation Area and Beartree Lake Recreation Area.
If you’re thinking of extending your stay in Southwest Virginia, use Damascus as your basecamp and venture out to catch a performance at the Barter Theatre, try your luck at the new Bristol Casino, ride offroad at Doe Mountain Recreation Area in Tennessee, and check other Virginia State Parks off the list with Hungry Mother State Park and Natural Tunnel State Park.
Plan your next adventure today!
The Find Your Way to Adventure trip itinerary was first published in the September 2022 issue of Blue Ridge Outdoors magazine.
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