6 Top Spots in Wytheville For Outdoor Recreation and Libations
Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountain region of southwest Virginia, Wytheville offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and compelling places to visit.
“Wytheville’s natural assets and local history are closely intertwined, and our tourism partners do an excellent job of telling both stories,” says Deana Kelley, assistant director of Visit Wytheville. “Some examples include Crystal Springs being used as an early water source for the town; New River Trail State Park, a reclaimed ‘Rails to Trails’ park which includes the historic Shot Tower where shot was made from locally mined lead; and Big Walker Mountain and its role in Tolland’s Raid and the battle of Wytheville during the Civil War.”
During COVID, those three outdoor attractions, along with three spots to try local wines and beers, were able to provide respite for those seeking to escape indoor life for a few hours of socially distanced fun. Even with more and more things now opening back up—due in large part to many people being vaccinated—those same six places should remain at the top of your to-do list when you head to Wytheville.
New River Trail State Park
The park’s main trail follows the New River for 37 miles, plus an additional 12 miles along the Chestnut Creek.
There are multiple access points throughout the region, which allow you to take in the great views of the mountains and/or water while you are bicycling, mountain biking, hiking, and horseback riding. If you are seeking a little on-the-water fun, kayaking, canoeing, and boating are your ticket, as well as fishing.
“The New River provides some of the best walleye, catfish, bass and carp fishing, and there are multiple public boat ramps along the trail. Chestnut Creek has trout and small fish for the angler to catch,” says Sam W. Sweeney, park manager.
For the truly adventurous, the park is a popular place for primitive camping (tent only, no showers).
Big Walker Lookout
“Big Walker Lookout is off-the-beaten-path on a scenic byway where you can slow down and enjoy the journey,” says the attraction’s general manager, Heather Kime. “We have spectacular 360-degree views from the top of our 100-foot observation tower.”
While you’ll likely come for the view from atop the tower, there is much more to take in. From May to October, you can sit outside and enjoy live music—primarily bluegrass, country, and gospel—every weekend. Local artists and authors are often on-site for classes, readings, and book signings, and even the non-Instagram obsessed are likely to take a photo in front of the LOVEworks sculpture.
No visit is complete without a stop at the BW Country Store. “You can sample some Homestead Creamery ice cream and pick up something handmade and unique to take home,” adds Kime.
Crystal Springs Recreation Area
Set on 1,800 acres, Crystal Springs welcomes you to explore its hiking and mountain biking paths. As you walk along one of the main trails, you can check out the historical reservoir, including its old pump house, shut-off valves, and groups of large hand-cut stones. Mountain bikers can head out on 12 miles of trails—ranging from easy to difficult. There also is a skills park that features jumps and obstacles such as a wooden berm wall and a balance beam.
Another popular option is the Kids in Parks TRACK Trail, which is designed as a fun, interactive learning environment for kids and their families. Interpretive markers talk about the area’s birds and aquatic life, as well as its geography.
West Wind Farm Vineyard & Winery
Since opening its tasting room in 2006, West Wind has welcomed visitors from all 50 U.S. states and a number of other countries. “Our winery is located on a fourth-generation family farm and provides a great spot to visit and enjoy a glass of wine,” says General Manager Jason Manley. “We have indoor and outdoor seating available and encourage you to take your time and enjoy West Wind Farm.”
During a visit, you can learn more about the vineyard’s 12 unique wines—whites and reds, ranging from dry to sweet. In addition to wine, you can also check out the shop in the tasting room, which has a variety of gifts, gourmet foods, local artwork, and more. The winery offers tours and hosts special events, although those have been limited because of COVID-19.
7 Dogs Brew Pub
Wytheville’s first brewery/brewpub, this downtown staple takes its name from the fact that its owner has rescued—you guessed it—seven dogs over the years. You’ll find portraits of each of the dogs, and the one rescued cat, in the dining area and a beautiful mural of all of them together in the music hall.
“Our outdoor beer garden is popular during the warmer months,” says Thomas Wingo, 7 Dogs’ general manager. “We have picnic tables and swinging chairs, and plenty of room and bowls of water for our four-legged friends, too.”
You can sample a pint of some of 7 Dogs featured beers and enjoy a range of activities throughout the week: Singo (musical bingo) on Tuesdays, trivia on Wednesdays, and live music every Friday and Saturday night. Wingo adds, not at all ironically considering his name, “We also happen to have the very best chicken wings in town!”
Seven Sisters Brewery
Located in the historical R.P. Johnson & Sons building in downtown Wytheville, Seven Sisters is your go-to place for quality craft beer. The brewery, which takes its name from a well-known local trail on Little Walker Mountain, serves up a number of specialty beers, ranging from German- and English-inspired varieties to an American IPA.
This community gathering spot offers an inviting, relaxed atmosphere where you can pull up a chair and sit and sip for a while. Also, feel free to bring along the kids and the pets, as this Main Street brewery is very family friendly. Seven Sisters’ game hall includes everything from cornhole to board games, and you can grab a bite to eat from one of the on-site food trucks.