Giles County

Home of well-known hiking trails, welcoming resorts, and outdoor outfitters

Giles County, VA, has a history rooted in traditional manufacturing, but it’s the majestic mountains and the New River that closely tie the residents to home. The County consists of four unique towns: Pembroke, Pearisburg, Narrows, and Rich Creek. Together, these communities comprise “Virginia’s Mountain Playground.”

Population:
16,562

Community
Profile

65 Miles of Appalachian Trail

37 Miles of New River

Highest Point: 4,361'

Communities

Town of Pembroke

Pembroke is home to Mountain Lake Lodge and the Cascades, a hugely popular hiking spot in the NRV.

Town of Pearisburg

Pearisburg has a bustling downtown and is home to many historic and charming buildings.

Town of Narrows

Narrows is a charming Appalachian Trail town where outdoor recreation opportunities are endless.

Town of Rich Creek

The “Gateway to Giles County,” has history that dates to 1780.

Pearisburg: One of the Best Places to Live in Virginia

– 2025 WorldAtlas

A Hikers Mecca

– 2023 Virginia Living Magazine

The Palisades: Most Charming Restaurant in Virginia

– 2025 LoveFood.com

The New River: Best Fishing Spot

– 2026 Best of the Blue Ridge

Points of Interest

Cascades Falls

Cascade Falls is one of Virginia’s most stunning waterfalls, where Little Stony Creek drops 69 feet into a large pool. The trail offers easy access and scenic views. (Photo by Jeremy Riffe)

Mill Creek Naure Park

Mill Creek Nature Park features miles of trails for hiking and biking, cascading waterfalls, and opportunities to fish for native trout in a peaceful and pristine mountain stream setting.

Walker Creek Retreat

On the banks of beautiful Walker Creek, WCR offers a collection of cozy cabins ideal for your next getaway, perfect for relaxing by the water or adventuring into nearby trails and nature.

The Palisades Restaurant

Atop a scenic view in Eggleston, this former general store is now a must-visit restaurant and favorite stop for those exploring the New River Valley’s food, charm, and mountain beauty.

New River Water Trail

The New River is considered the world’s second oldest river and estimated to be between 10 and 360 million years old. It’s an ancient natural wonder with modern-day appeal.

Mountain Lake Lodge

Known for its role in Dirty Dancing, Mountain Lake Lodge offers stunning views, hiking trails, delicious dining, and a one-of-a-kind setting for weddings, events, or a memorable retreat.

Kairos Wilderness Resort

Kairos is a 1,515-acre wilderness resort nestled between the New River and Appalachian Mountains. Offering variety of outdoor adventures, they are the perfect place to recharge.

What We're Known For

New River Water Trail

Giles County has made an effort to make the New River more accessible than ever. Tons of boat launches and docks are available for paddlers, boaters, and floaters of any skill level. When you’re ready for your next adventure, look to the New River Water Trail.

Dirty Dancing

Much of the cult classic Dirty Dancing was filmed in Giles County, VA, at Mountain Lake Lodge, including famous scenes at Kellerman’s, the gazebo, and Baby’s cabin. The lodge offers the ultimate mountain retreat setting with farm-to-table dining, outdoor adventures, and Dirty Dancing Days.

Outdoor Recreation

Known as “Virginia’s Mountain Playground,” Giles is not shy about its vast amount of outdoor recreation. If you’re looking for opportunities to hike, bike, fish, camp, UTV, or otherwise, Giles is a good place to start. Try the 65 miles of the Appalachian Trail!