VA Best of Blue Ridge

NRV Has 5 Best of Blue Ridge Award Winners

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BLUE RIDGE MOUNTAINS – Virginia’s New River Valley is home to 5 of the winners from the Best of Blue Ridge 2018 Awards. Plus, an additional 14 finalists call the NRV home!

The 8th annual Best of the Blue Ridge Awards have over 100 categories for voters to input their favorites. Thousands of readers voted for the best food, drinks, business, places, and more.

Check out the mentions in the NRV:

VA Best of the Blue Ridge

Winners

Mill Creek, Best Biking Trail
FloydFest, Rowdiest Festival
FloydFest, Bust Music Festival
Floyd YogaJam, Best Retreat
Emily Satterwhite (Associate Professor of Appalachian Studies at Virginia Tech), Best Environmental Educator

VA Best of Blue Ridge

Finalists

Cascade Falls, Waterfall
Pembroke Pond, Standup Paddleboard Spot
Kairos, Camp Site
Jefferson National Forest, National Forest
Mountain Lake Lodge, Luxury Destination
Mill Creek Nature Park, Pet-Friendly Adventure
Virginia’s Mountain Playground, Place to Play Hooky from Work
FloydFest, Weirdest Festival
FloydFest, Family-Friendly Festival
Mountains of Misery, Bike Race
Five Mile Mountain, Blue Ridge Booze
Walkabout Outfitters, Outdoor Store
In Balance Yoga, Yoga Studio
Tree Tops Adventures at Mountain Lake Lodge, Zip Line

For a complete list of winners, visit Blue Ridge Outdoors.

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Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly-skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.

Blue Ridge Parkway Mabry Mill

Prime Time on the Blue Ridge – Southern Living

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If you haven’t taken a little road trip along the Blue Ridge Parkway, now is certainly the time. As the leaves start to change and the air turns crisp, the beautiful, winding drive is sure to please. It truly is “Prime Time on the Blue Ridge.”

Be sure to stop by the Floyd Country Store or Mabry Mill along the way.

Blue Ridge Parkway Floyd Country Store

Cheryl Zibisky

Jason Frye from Southern Living recounts experience at Mabry Mill during his journey along the famous BRP:

“To call this place picturesque is an understatement; Mabry Mill is a poem. The millhouse, built by Ed Mabry in 1905, sits on the edge of a small pond and is one of the most photographed stops along the Parkway. Today, with the play of color on the trees above and their reflections in the millpond below, it’s a real showstopper.”

Read more at Southern Living.

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Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly-skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.

New River 500 Kairos Giles County VA

The New River 500 Event Returns at Kairos in Giles County, Virginia

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FROM GILES COUNTY, VA– The New River 500 will be held October 19-21 at Kairos Resort in Giles County, Virginia and encompass over 500 kilometers of riding. This event is an all-inclusive dual sport adventurer’s dream. A multiple day opportunity to ride, socialize, and participate in on and off-road courses- you will want to mark your calendars for this. Bring your bike and experience rides through the mountains of the New River Valley. Come for the riding, stay for the fellowship and enjoy good eats, all at the New River 500. Dual sport bike rentals available for participants too, from GearHead Junction in Pearisburg.

The New River 500 motorsport event will held at Kairos, an outdoor adventure haven located in the western part of Giles County. This property features an amphitheater, RV and tent camping sites, luxury yurts, scenic overlooks, and over 45 miles of trails to enjoy. Established in 2016 and opening its gates early 2017, Kairos has prepared a venue and space that pursues not just a place but a feeling.

What is included in the registration: Access to Kairos property on Friday evening or Saturday morning, primitive tent camping for two nights, bathhouses, and necessary facilities, dinner on Saturday evening, souvenir t-shirt, and route charts for dual sport routes through the region. You are welcome to bring your RV as there is a well-appointed campground. Camping is included for primitive sites for both nights. If you want an upgrade you can do so. Throw in your camping chairs for the dinner and fun on Saturday evening.

Want to participate but don’t have a valid motorcycle license? Kairos Resort has onsite trails and day passes every day of the year! They also have Polaris UTV rentals for onsite riding. Visit their website or call any day to take advantage of the property amenities.

Stay up-to-date with event announcements by following the event on Facebook, by searching ‘The New River 500’ or visiting GilesCounty.org. To RSVP for the New River 500 call 540-235-2777 or register at the link on Facebook.

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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.

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Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly-skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.

roam nrv bike share launches

NRV Bike Share Launches in Blacksburg and Christiansburg

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VIRGINIA’S NEW RIVER VALLEY – The NRV’s new bike share program, Roam NRV, has officially launched. Powered by Gotcha, the bikes are located in Blacksburg and Christiansburg and on the Virginia Tech Campus. Bikes can be found at “hubs,” which are detailed on the Roam NRV website.

According to the Roanoke Times, there is consideration to expand the program in the future. Some of the hubs may also change location depending on use or the potential for businesses to sponsor them.

Riders can reserve bikes through the Social Bicycles (SoBi) mobile app for Apple and Android.

For more information visit the Roam NRV website and start roaming the NRV today!

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Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly-skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.

New River Water Trail

Giles to Break Ground on Newest Public Boat Landing

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Giles boat landing

FROM 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!

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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.

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Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly-skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.

VA Best of Blue Ridge

A Whopping 16 NRV Favorites Named “Best of the Mountains”

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Virginia’s New River Valley was not mentioned once or twice, but rather 16 times in Blue Ridge Country Magazine’s “Best of the Mountains.” From hiking trails to wineries, the NRV has some great places to visit… and readers agree. Check out how the NRV ranked:

#1 Favorite Waterfall: The Cascades

NRV Best of the Mountains, Favorite Waterfall, The Cascades

This 70 ft. waterfall attracts almost 150,000 visitors each year. This easier hike has a beautiful payoff and visitors agree.

#1 Best Hiking Trail (Non-AT): New River Trail

#1 Best Biking Trail: New River Trail

NRV Best of the Mountains, New River Trail Bridge

This rail to trail system runs over 57 miles in Virginia’s New River Valley and is a favorite for locals and visitors alike.

#1 Best Farm to Visit: Sinkland Farms

#1 Best Place to Hear Mountain Music: FloydFest

#1 Best Music Festival: FloydFest

NRV Best of the Mountains, FloydFest

For great music and free hugs, FloydFest is the place to be. It is consistently named a top music festival and won 3 “Best of the Mountains” awards.

#1 Best Mountain Winery: Chateau Morrisette

#2 Best Fishing Lake or River: New River

#2 Best Rail to Trail System: New River Valley Trail

#2 Best Country Store: Floyd Country Store

#2 Best Quirky Festival: FloydFest

#3 Town on My Bucket List: Floyd, VA

#3 Best Fishing Lake or River: Claytor Lake

#4 Favorite State Park: Claytor Lake State Park

A Top Favorite Historic Theater: Lyric Theater

NRV Best of the Mountains, The Lyric, Blacksburg

The Lyric Theater is a restored hot spot for not only blockbuster and indie movies, but also live speakers and performers.

Person Making a Difference in the Mountains: Woody Crenshaw

NRV Best of the Mountains, Woody Crenshaw

Crenshaw has done a lot for Floyd County including renovating the Floyd Country Store, and spearheading the Floyd Town Revitalization Project.

Check out more of the rankings from Blue Ridge Country.

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Virginia’s New River Valley: For those searching for an inspiring place to live and do business, Virginia’s New River Valley provides both an eclectic small town atmosphere and an innovative, collaborative business community with a loyal, highly skilled, and educated workforce. Offering the best of all worlds – magnificent mountains, cutting-edge research, arts, entertainment, and education – it’s A NATURAL FIT.

Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.

10 Things to Do in the NRV This Summer

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Note:
July 8, 2021: This blog post, which was originally published in May 2018, was updated to reflect current information about the summer activities on this list.

New River Valley, VA – Whether you’re a student, a long-term resident, or anything in between, Virginia’s New River Valley has no shortage of summer activities. Explore every part of the region and check out these 10 things to do in the NRV this summer.

1. Adventure at Mountain Lake Lodge

Mountain Lake Lodge - Things to do in the NRV

Check out the Adventure Center at Mountain Lake Lodge in Giles County for endless summer fun. Zip through the Appalachian mountains on a Treetop Adventure, test your survival skills with an Escape Room challenge, or play Archery Tag with your closest family and friends. (photo by Alissa Moody)

2. Chateau Morrisette

Chateau Morrisette - Things to do in the NRV

Enjoy the grounds of this third-generation winery with friends, family, and even your pup (dogs are welcome!). Order a flight to explore new wines or sip a favorite blend while enjoying the outdoor seating and beautiful views of Floyd County.

3. Claytor Lake

Claytor Lake – Things to do in the NRV

Swim, boat, or fish at Claytor Lake State Park in Pulaski County this summer. Enjoy the beach and seasonal snack bar, the full-service marina, picnic spots, hiking trails, and more.

4. Float the New River from Bissett Park

Bisset Park - Things to do in the NRV

You can float, boat, paddle, or fish the New River from many spots in the NRV, but Bisset Park in the City of Radford is a good place to start. Bring your own equipment or rent from a local outfitter when you arrive. Float awhile and they’ll pick you up to start again.

5. Floyd Country Store Friday Night Jamboree

Floyd Country Store - Things to do in the NRV

The Floyd Country Store is a nationally renowned country store and music venue in Floyd. It “has become a traditional gathering place for musicians, dancers, and visitors from all over the world.” The Jamboree happens every Friday night at 6:30 pm with different featured musicians.

6. Hahn Horticulture Garden

Hahn Horticulture Garden - Things to do in the NRV

The Hahn Horticulture Garden is almost six acres of beautiful gardens on the Virginia Tech campus in Montgomery County. Experience tranquil water gardens, shade gardens, and plants galore! You can even check out special events and exhibits like Art in the Garden.

7. Hike the Cascades

The Cascades - Things to do in the NRV

A classic hike in Virginia’s New River Valley, Cascade Falls is a moderate hike with amazing views. The 69-foot falls are flanked by even taller cliff walls. This Giles County treasure was recently listed among the top five scenic family hikes in Virginia.

8. Moss Arts Center

Moss Arts Center - things to do in the NRV

The Moss Arts Center at Virginia Tech welcomes performances that range from classical music to dance to stand-up comedy. The art galleries are open Wednesday – Saturday and feature various art exhibitions to explore. Click here to see the calendar of upcoming events.

9. Pulaski River Turtles Game at Calfee Park

Pulaski Yankees - things to do in the NRV

Head over to historic Calfee Park in Pulaski for a family-friendly River Turtles baseball game. Newly renamed in 2021, the River Turtles are part of the Appalachian League. This is an action-packed NRV experience you don’t want to miss.

10. Radford University Planetarium

RU Planetarium - Things to do in the NRV

Beat the heat and still experience nature! School is out, but the Radford University Planetarium is still up and running. Please note that as of Summer 2021, the Planetarium is in a “wait-and-see mode” due to COVID-19 case numbers and vaccination rates. Refer to the upcoming show times list here to see when the planetarium will be open.

Find more things to do each day on our Community Calendar powered by Next3Days.

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Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small-town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.

A point of view shot riding a bike, bike virginia nrv

Bike Virginia to ‘Ride the River’ in the NRV

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NEW RIVER VALLEY, VA – Bike Virginia, a six-day bike tour that changes locations in Virginia every year, will be located in the New River Valley this year from June 22-27. There are two host locations: one in Radford and the other at Claytor Lake State Park in Dublin.

Over 1,500 bikers participate in the ride that has route options from 20-100 miles each day. Riders have the option of doing a 3-day or 6-day expedition.

An image from the Bike Virginia website that says Ride the River for Bike Virginia in the NRV

Bike Virginia is a way to escape the everyday and spend some time among kindred spirits and beautiful landscapes.

“Nestled within lush rolling hills lies an ancient river that winds its way North. Slipping silently through pastures, between mountains, and alongside villages, the sparkling New River feeds the soil and the soul. IT’S NEW. IT’S ANCIENT. IT’S AMAZING.”

Bike Virginia and the locals work to provide extra excursions and activities for bikers. Some include yoga and massages at the trip headquarters or coordination to float the New River or boat Claytor Lake.

Ride the River this June in Virginia’s New River Valley.

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Virginia’s New River Valley: For those searching for an inspiring place to live and do business, Virginia’s New River Valley provides both an eclectic small town atmosphere and an innovative, collaborative business community with a loyal, highly skilled, and educated workforce. Offering the best of all worlds – magnificent mountains, cutting-edge research, arts, entertainment, and education – it’s A NATURAL FIT.

Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.

Bikeshare NRV, NRV Bikeshare program coming to the New River Valley, painted bike logo on a side walk with fall leaves

Bikeshare Coming to the New River Valley

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NEW RIVER VALLEY, VA – The New River Valley will soon have a bikeshare program, complete in Spring 2018. The NRV bikeshare program will service Montgomery County, the towns of Christiansburg and Blacksburg, and Virginia Tech.

The program will start with 12 stations and 88 bikes. Users can both purchase memberships or rent by the hour. Powered by Gotcha, there will be traditional bikes as well as a few electric-power-assist bikes.

How to use Gotcha bikeshare NRV, NRV bikeshare program, new river valley, screen grab from gotcha

For more information visit the New River Valley Regional Commission site or check out the bikes at Gotcha.

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Virginia’s New River Valley: For those searching for an inspiring place to live and do business, Virginia’s New River Valley provides both an eclectic small town atmosphere and an innovative, collaborative business community with a loyal, highly skilled, and educated workforce. Offering the best of all worlds – magnificent mountains, cutting-edge research, arts, entertainment, and education – it’s A NATURAL FIT.

Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.

Pembroke in Giles County, VA Named A Top Paddle Town

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Canoe & Kayak featured an article titled, “(Next) Best Paddling Towns: Pembroke, VA Exploring the New River Water Trail through Giles County, Va.”  Author Natalie Warren said:


Sometimes one town on its own is too small to truly be considered the Next Best Paddling Town. Sometimes it takes collaboration and pooling of resources by neighboring communities to provide paddler amenities for a larger region. The five municipalities in Giles County, Virginia do just that, focusing their energies on the New River, one of the geologically oldest rivers in America.

Read more at Canoe & Kayak.


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Virginia’s New River Valley: For those searching for an inspiring place to live and do business, Virginia’s New River Valley provides both an eclectic small town atmosphere and an innovative, collaborative business community with a loyal, highly skilled, and educated workforce. Offering the best of both worlds – magnificent mountains, cutting-edge research, arts, entertainment, and education – it’s A NATURAL FIT.


Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.