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Explore Montgomery County Like a Hokie

There’s a tradition at Virginia Tech – a bucket list to be more precise – of 72 tasks students should complete in a lifetime, in honor of the university’s establishment in 1872 (it’s worth noting that, cleverly, 18 of those 72 are considered essential in case it wasn’t clear the number was an homage to the founding year). While some of the tasks like graduating, taking an interesting class or purchasing a class ring sort of prohibit non-students from participating, Montgomery County visitors can still have a bit of fun with the bucket list and enjoy the New River Valley region just as much as a true Hokie.

Here are five items from the Hokie Bucket List you can complete regardless of your alma mater. Now, get out there and Go to Town!

Find all 15 Gargoyles on the Virginia Tech Campus

Strolling Virginia Tech’s campus and admiring the neo-Gothic architecture is a pleasurable experience itself, but make things a little more interesting by trying to identify the 15 gargoyles located across the campus. While the gargoyles may seem frightening to some, their purpose on campus is to serve as spouts that move water away from the buildings’ gutters. Hint: they’re all located on buildings with names ending in “Hall.”

Attend a Performance at the Moss Arts Center

Virginia Tech’s Moss Arts Center (MAC) is a locally treasured thriving community of art and inspiration, where visitors have meaningful experiences enjoying arts of the highest caliber in all its forms. In addition to hosting exhibitions and performances from globally and locally celebrated artists, the MAC treats visitors to hands-on experiences, workshops with visiting artists, lectures and symposia, master classes, community celebrations and more. Simply stop in and enjoy a performance and you’re just a few adventures away from being an honorary Hokie. 

Virginia Tech, Center for the Arts, Location: Blacksburg VA, Architect: Snohetta

Sing Karaoke at TOTS on Tuesday

Top of the Stairs – or TOTS as Hokies know it – has been the place to be for student nightlife since 1978. And one of the bar’s most beloved traditions is karaoke on Tuesday evenings, which runs both throughout the school year and into the summer months. In fact the event is so popular that even between semesters, 100-200 participants still show up to belt out their favorite tunes. So clear your pipes and get ready to sing and, if you need a little bit of liquid courage, ask a bartender for “The Rail,” which is TOTS’ signature cocktail that contains liquor, liquor and more liquor.

Explore the Huckleberry Trail

Montgomery County residents and students alike feel strongly about preserving and protecting the destination’s environmental treasures, and exploring one of those treasures – the Huckleberry Trail – is another task you can complete from the Hokie Bucket List. The Huckleberry Trail connects towns of Blacksburg and Christiansburg and is part of the nation’s rail-to-trail system, making the 14-mile trek perfect for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages and abilities, whether walking, running or cycling.

Enjoy Donuts from Carol Lee Donut Shop

This one shouldn’t be much of a challenge unless you are the one person on the planet who dislikes donuts. Carol Lee Donut Shop has been a Blacksburg staple since 1968, offering fresh donuts daily to Montgomery County residents and Virginia Tech students alike. Carol Lee makes cake and filled donuts as well as yeast-raised varieties in flavors like blueberry cake, toasted coconut, and cookies and cream, along with all of the traditional flavors. Just be sure to show up early or they’re likely to be sold out. 

Parents Getaway

Planning on visiting your kids who are attending one of our local universities, Virginia Tech or Radford? Let us suggest a few ways you can make it memorable and introduce you to some beloved attractions in Montgomery County. Go to Town!

With a breathtaking landscape comprised of the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains as well as the ancient New River, there’s no better place to explore nature than Montgomery County. The Huckleberry Trail connects the towns of Blacksburg and Christiansburg and is part of the nation’s rail-to-trail system, making the 14-mile trek perfect for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages and abilities, whether walking, running or cycling. The Renva-Knowles Memorial Bridge, along with multiple trailheads along the way, afford visitors easy access and parking.

Huckleberry Bridge

The Huckleberry Trail is also an access point to Coal Miner’s Heritage Park, which is located on a 30-acre swath of land where the Merrimac mining community once resided. Where a mining tipple, hotel, general store and residential housing for coal miners once stood is now an open greenspace and a wooden bridge leading guests into the park, the old mining entrance and some of the remnants of the old mining community. The park is an homage to more than 100 years’ worth of coal mining history in the region.

While you’re visiting Montgomery County, be sure to check out Falls Ridge Preserve, part of a rugged ridge along the Roanoke River reaching about 80-feet in height. Enjoy a hike to a serene spring-fed waterfall as small pockets of cascading water lead the way. Wildflowers and interesting rock formations of limestone and sandstone serve as the backdrop for your hike during the spring and summer months, while storybook-like ice formations enchant visitors during the winter months.

Montgomery County is an epicenter of global agricultural innovation, and also is home to some of Virginia’s finest restaurants, wineries and breweries, a few of which are located right on the farms.

Located on Glade Road Growing Farm, Rising Silo Brewery offers beers brewed with exclusively organic malts and water from the farm’s well. Brewmaster Greg Zielske also sources produce from other local farms to develop creative seasonal options. Additionally, the brewery utilizes green energy through the power of 113 solar panels that provide 31 kW of solar energy, as well as a solar hot water system.

Rising Silo Brewery

If you prefer wine, be sure to check out Beliveau Farm Winery. With a desire to grow grapes and make wine, Yvan and Joyce Beliveau purchased 165-acres of land that had been overgrown with brush, and the 1900’s farmhouse-turned-barn that sat upon it, in 2001. By 2009, the first grapes were planted with the first wine produced in 2011. The winery officially opened in 2012 and a brewery was added in 2019 to produce gluten free beers – currently Virginia’s only gluten-free brewery.

And while the variety of wines available, from the “Destiny” vidal blanc to the “Sweet Surrender” concord, are enough to impress any aficionado, more impressive is the 165 scenic acres of picnic areas, hiking trails and lavender fields that add the perfect touch of ambiance to your glass.

Beliveau Farm Winery

You must be getting hungry by now. Ranging from burger joints to fine cuisine, in Montgomery County there’s a taste available for everyone’s palate. And just like the bustling agricultural industry of the region yields delicious brews and wines, so too does it allow for remarkably fresh, local flavors from our bevy of restaurants who proudly prepare breakfast, lunch and dinner for our visitors.

Connie Hale, chef and owner of Buffalo and More, sources all of the restaurant’s buffalo meat from a nearby farm (which she also owns) to prepare local favorites like bison chili, buffalo brisket and a variety of burgers. She says visitors tell her that buffalo has a sweeter, richer taste than beef, and that many say buffalo meat tastes like what beef used to taste like.  The restaurant also sources all its other proteins and produce from local farms lending to an authentic Montgomery County flavor experience.

Some of the region’s more refined restaurants are located within the area’s historic buildings. But don’t let the formal structures and sophisticated menus fool you – you’re still in Montgomery County after all, and we do casual around here.

A favorite Southwest Virginia landmark since 1963, The Farmhouse Restaurant in Christiansburg serves up some of the best steak and seafood dishes in the New River Valley in a relaxed setting one would expect from a southern farmhouse. Originally part of the Ridinger Estate built in the 1800s, the authentic farmhouse is joined by an old train caboose, adding an additional unique seating option.

The Farmhouse Restaurant

622 North invites diners to a large, recently renovated Victorian building in Blacksburg’s historic Downtown District. Serving lunch and dinner options influenced from flavors from around the world, 622 North treats guests to family-style, three-course and a la carte meals crafted with the finest locally sourced ingredients of the New River Valley.

For some nighttime fun and culture, stop by the Lyric Theatre. Originally opened in 1930 and the focus of major restorations throughout the years, the Lyric is famous for being one of Virginia’s first cinemas to show sound pictures. Adorned with original 1930s tapestries, replica lanterns and the fully restored lobby and auditorium, today the Lyric Theatre is a hub for movies, concerts and performances. The Lyric Theatre is also home to some of the best popcorn in Montgomery County, so grab a bag and enjoy (we like it better with extra butter).

Lyric Theatre

All that’s left to do now is tuck in for a good night’s rest. After all, tomorrow is a whole new day to explore the New River Valley. Go to Town!

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Outdoor Adventuring

Paddling, Peddling, Picnicking and Photographing the Outdoors of Montgomery County

Whether by land or water, there are abundant opportunities to explore nature and seek adventure in Montgomery County.

The Huckleberry Trail connects towns of Blacksburg and Christiansburg and is part of the nation’s rail-to-trail system, making the 14-mile trek perfect for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages and abilities, whether walking, running or cycling. The Renva-Knowles Memorial Bridge along with multiple trail heads along the way afford visitors easy access and parking.

Huckleberry Bridge

Along the way, you’ll encounter Coal Miner’s Heritage Park, located on a 30-acre swath of land where the Merrimac mining community once resided. Where a mining tipple, hotel, general store and residential housing for coal miners once stood is now an open greenspace and a wooden bridge leading guests into the park, the old mining entrance and some of the remnants of the old mining community. The park is an homage to more than 100 years’ worth of coal mining history in the region.

The adjacent Coal Mining Loop Trail, a newer addition to the Huckleberry Trail, was designed and built by volunteers from Pathfinders for Greenways, who dedicated nearly 2,000 hours to the project.

Framing the New River Valley terrain for millions of years, the New River is the ultimate playground for aquatic enthusiasts.

On and in the water

McCoy Falls is one of locals’ favorite spots along the New River for everything from leisurely sunbathing to thrilling water sports. The put-in at McCoy Falls was for several years the site of the New River Rodeo, a popular white-water competition that drew quite a crowd. Today, the site is a put-in for beginners of white-water boating, fishermen (and women) and tubers. The spot also is perfect for splashing around in the New River when the water’s warm enough and deep enough.

For those without their own river-worthy vessel, New River Junction is a family-owned campground and recreational park which offers access to the wide, shallow riffles and clear, warm waters of the ancient New River. Visitors can rent tubes (and a cooler) for the whole family and simply relax as they float down nearly one mile of calm water. For those seeking a bit more adventure, there is an optional 200 yards of exhilarating rapids at the end of the float.

Dog on the New River

Biking, hiking and more

Jefferson National Forrest is one of two forests (the other being Washington National Forest) that stretch across the entire state of Virginia, watched over by the beautiful Appalachians. Two thousand miles of hiking trails set among neo-tropical birds in the summer and a kaleidoscopic pallet of color during the crisp fall lend to some of the most breathing scenery in the region.

Other than hiking, visitors can enjoy the forest in whatever way their wanderlust desires, whether fishing, mountain biking, camping, hawk watching, cross-country skiing, horseback riding and photography.

Additionally, 330 miles of the internationally famous Appalachian National Scenic Trail, along with 160 miles of National Recreation Trails, call the forests home.

If mountain biking is your thing, be sure to drop in at the Pandapas Pond area, also located in Jefferson National Forest. Claimed as some of the best mountain biking trails on the east coast, mountain bikers can kick up mud over 19 trails and more than 30 miles of terrain. Trails are suitable for all skill levels from greenhorns to shredders, while rough rock gardens, switchbacks and grueling vertical climbs await all comers.

Jefferson National Forest

For safety, trail difficulty is marked with International Mountain Bicycling Association (IMBA)-designated signage at most trail intersections. Additionally, a “Muddy Trails Meter” at the Pandapas trailhead keeps riders informed of trail conditions, as it’s preferable to stay off the trails in poor conditions to prevent damage to the trails.

If you’d prefer a more leisurely ride (or hike), Poverty Creek Trail is the main multi-use trail at Pandapas Pond that features more gently rolling slopes across a 7.1 mile one-way trail, perfect for hiking, running, horseback riding, mountain biking, or just enjoying a picnic at the Pandapas Pond day area.

The pond itself sits on the Eastern Continental Divide and treats visitors to a serene vista of rhododendron, dragonflies, turtles, songbirds, and waterfowl.

Pandapas Pond

Wildlife splendor

Heritage Community Park, 169-acre section of land situated among rural communities and is a must-see for those who revel in observing wildlife across a variety of habitats ranging from lush meadows to floodplains.

Among birds who are breeding residents of the park include the whip-poor-will, willow flycatcher, yellow-breasted chat and pileated woodpecker, with more than 120 species of birds having been documented at the site. The fall season is best for birding, due to migration. On any given day, visitors observe species such as the olive-sided flycatcher, blackpoll, palm and bay-breasted warblers, as well as migrant raptors.

The park is home to least four species of swallowtails butterflies, five species of whites and sulphurs, and 13 species of skippers, including Peck’s, tawny-edged, and Hobomok skippers.

And let’s not forget our amphibious friends. Frog and toad species include American toad, pickerel, green, and upland chorus frogs, spring peeper, and gray treefrog. Northern dusky salamanders can be found buried beneath rocks and logs along Tom’s Creek.

Heritage Community Park’s community of mammals includes long-tailed and least weasels, short-tail shrew, river otter, woodchuck, muskrat, bog lemming, red fox, and bobcat. Four species of bats, eastern pipistrelle, big brown, little brown, and red have also been seen at this site. Herp lovers might find black racer, queen, black rat, and eastern garter snakes.

Explore the Wineries and Breweries

Sip your way through the towns of Montgomery County

After a stroll through the streets of our local towns, it will dawn on you that it’s five o’clock somewhere. Why not head over to Rising Silo Brewery and Farm, one of southwest Virginia’s farm-based breweries? Located on Glade Road Growing Farm, at Rising Silo you’ll find beers brewed with exclusively organic malts and water from the farm’s well. Brew master Greg Zielske also sources produce from other local farms to develop creative seasonal options. Additionally, the brewery utilizes green energy through the power of 113 solar panels that provide 31 kW of solar energy, as well as a solar hot water system.

Rising Silo Brewery

While you’re there, pull up a stool (or chair) at Tabula Rasa on Glade, the farm kitchen at Glade Road Growing. You can’t get more farm-to-table than when the table’s actually on the farm! Featuring produce, meat, poultry and eggs from right there at Glade Road Growing, Tabula Rasa also sources nearly all or their grains, cheese and oils from Southern Appalachia farms and mills that prioritize organic growing.

At Eastern Divide Brewing, treat yourself to an array of different beer styles and flavors for all seasons and occasions. Eastern Divide brews with all Virginia grains provided by Murphy and Rude Malting, lending an authentically local taste to all their brews, and supporting local Virginia agriculture in the process. Eastern Divide also has begun fermenting beers in oak barrels previously used for products like bourbon, wine and maple syrup, adding a greater variety of flavor. When you get hungry, Feast & Company, local to the New River Valley, has its own kitchen at Eastern Divide to feed the brewery’s visitors. serving farm inspired cuisine combining both rustic and refined flavors with the best local ingredients.

Another local favorite, Moon Hollow Brewing Company, boasts an inviting venue where people from all walks of life can connect over fresh, local brews. Named for the small plot of land behind the brewery space, the brewery treats patrons to a variety of locally influenced flavors, from a grapefruit ginger sour to a traditional Hefeweizen. While Moon Hollow does not have its own kitchen (yet), local food trucks are often on site in case you get the munchies.

From the grapevines

If you’re with a group divided by beer versus wine preferences, be sure to check out Beliveau Farm Winery, where you’ll find both. Beliveau Farm Winery is truly the story of a labor of love.

With a desire to grow grapes and make wine, Yvan and Joyce Beliveau purchased 165-acres of land that had been overgrown with brush, and the 1900’s farmhouse-turned-barn that sat upon it, in 2001. By 2009, the first grapes were planted with the first wine produced in 2011. The winery officially opened in 2012 and a brewery was added in 2019 to produce gluten free beers – currently Virginia’s only gluten-free brewery.

Beliveau Farm Winery Pavilion

The secret to their delicious wine, according to Joyce Beliveau, is that they’re committed to making Virginia wine. “We don’t try to make California wine. We let our grapes tell us what they are. So, we make Virginia wine.”

And while the variety of wines available, from the “Destiny” vidal blanc to the “Sweet Surrender” concord, are enough to impress any aficionado, more impressive is the 165 scenic acres of picnic areas, hiking trails and lavender fields that add the perfect touch of ambiance to your glass.

Beliveau Farm Winery Wine

4-Day Family Vacation

Go to Town Family Style in Montgomery County

Everyone loves a long weekend. But you know what would make one even better? Spending it with family in the New River Valley with a visit to Montgomery County, VA.

In Montgomery County – along with its two largest towns Blacksburg and Christiansburg – families will discover a story crafted by the rich backgrounds and ideals of Montgomery County “locals” – the chefs, artisans, craftsmen (and women), the outdoorswomen (and men), the innovators, storytellers, educators, and the product developers – who are passionately loyal in their love for Montgomery County and the New River Valley. 

With so much to do and so many ways to explore the region, planning a visit can seem overwhelming. So, we’ve decided to help by mapping out the perfect 4-day itinerary for when you and your family are ready to Go to Town!

Day 1 – Arriving in the New River Valley

Your journey into Montgomery County is an attraction unto itself. All roads leading into the region meander through the Blue Ridge Mountains, along the New River (the country’s oldest river) and other breathtaking topography. The fall season in particular makes your trek into Montgomery County particularly pleasing as the vibrant colors of fall light up the skyline.

Upon arriving in town, fuel up with a quick lunch at Dude’s Drive In and show the kids what fast food was like in the good ol’ days. The staff at Dude’s will take your order car-side and, once your bevvy of sandwiches, fries and other diner specialties are ready, they’ll deliver it right to you. If you’re worried about the family truckster’s upholstery and if the weather is nice, there’s no rule that you have to eat in the vehicle, as there are several picnic benches available. 

Spend the rest of the afternoon exploring Jefferson National Forest, one of two forests (the other being Washington National Forest) that stretch across the entire state of Virginia, watched over by the beautiful Appalachians. Two thousand miles of hiking trails set among neo-tropical birds in the summer and a kaleidoscopic pallet of color during the crisp fall lend to some of the most breathtaking scenery in the region.

Jefferson National Forest

Now that you’ve worked up an appetite, try something new with a quick dinner at Buffalo and More before settling in for the night. Connie Hale, chef and owner of Buffalo and More, sources all of the restaurant’s buffalo meat from a nearby farm (which she also owns) to prepare local favorites like bison chili, buffalo brisket and a variety of burgers. She says visitors tell her that buffalo has a sweeter, richer taste than beef, and that many say buffalo meat tastes like what beef used to taste like. The restaurant also sources all its other proteins and produce from local farms lending to an authentic Montgomery County flavor experience.

Day 2 – Adventure Abounds

Kick off the day with a treat from Rt. 8 Donuts – home of the best donut in Virginia and one of the 50 best donut shops nationwide as rated by Mashed.com. Each morning, the owners start the process of making their donuts at 1 a.m., and their day doesn’t end until they’re sold out (which actually happens quite quickly so be sure to get there early)! Rt. 8 donuts offers more than 70 varieties of donuts including favorites like apple fritters, maple bacon and blueberry cake.

Start your day’s adventure with a visit to McCoy Falls, one of locals’ favorite spots along the New River for everything from leisurely sunbathing to thrilling water sports in the warmer months and breathtaking scenery in the fall and winter seasons. If you are visiting in the summer, be sure to check out New River Junction, a family-owned campground and recreational park which offers access to the wide, shallow riffles and clear, warm waters of the ancient New River. Visitors can rent tubes for the whole family (along with a tube for your cooler) and simply relax as they float down nearly one mile of calm water. For those seeking a bit more adventure, there is an optional 200 yards of exhilarating rapids at the end of the float.

New River Junction

Next, immerse yourself in the regional arts and culture at Virginia Tech’s Moss Arts Center (MAC), a thriving community of art and inspiration, where visitors have meaningful experiences enjoying arts of the highest caliber in all its forms. In addition to hosting exhibitions and performances from globally and locally celebrated artists, the MAC treats visitors to hands-on experiences, workshops with visiting artists, lectures and symposia, master classes, community celebrations and more.  Inside of the MAC is The Cube, a one-of-a-kind black box theater used for research, performances and visual art. 

Moss Arts Center

While you’re in the area, fuel up with a meal at a locals’ favorite, The Blacksburg Tavern. Located in the oldest house, circa 1892, on Blacksburg’s Main Street and within the town’s original Sixteen Squares, The Blacksburg Tavern offers a traditional regional farmer’s menu, much like the original family who lived in this house would have prepared: chicken, beef, ham, vegetables, biscuits, apple butter, ice cream and cobbler. But you’ll truly know you’re in Montgomery County as The Blacksburg Tavern features Appalachian-style music and live performances where possible, while also showcasing art depicting local history and landscapes.

Front of Blacksburg Tavern

Day 3 – Rainy Days are Fun Here, Too

Montgomery County and the New River Valley generally enjoy pleasant weather, but we do get the occasional rainy day. But fear not, because rainy days here are just an opportunity to explore the great indoors.

Wonder Universe: A Children’s Museum is all about letting kids have fun, burn off a bit of energy and play while learning about topics ranging from arts to the environment. Given Montgomery County’s agricultural history, the museum’s “Farm to Table” exhibit lets kids plant, harvest and buy or sell produce, then prepare a fresh meal in the farm kitchen. Oh, and in case you have any upcoming visits to the dentist, the “Dental Office” exhibit lets children take on the roles of both patient and dentist, helping them understand what it takes to have healthy, pearly white chompers. Even the littlest of little ones can get in on the fun at “The Meadow,” featuring climbing structures and ride-ons to help teach motor skills.

Speaking of climbing, Crimpers Climbing Gym challenges kids and kids-at-heart of all ages to test their bravery and climbing skills in this local-favorite indoor climbing gym, perfect in case you happen to catch a rainy day, or just want to try something new and exciting! Also check out NRV Super Bowl, where you and your children will get giddy with excitement (no matter what age) to bowl, play arcade games, spin out on Spin Zone bumper cars, and even play a game of laser tag. 

After the sun sets on your last full day in the New River Valley, treat the family to a classic movie-watching experience at Starlight Drive-In. The theater has been entertaining locals since 1953 with new and favorite films of the past, like Grease, ET as well as concert performances from some of the country’s most well-known musicians. 

Day 4 – It’s Not Goodbye, but See You Again Soon

No one likes the last day of vacation, but a delicious breakfast from Gillie’s – a Blacksburg favorite specializing in vegetarian options – will help make the occasion a bit more palatable. You can’t go wrong with the Gillie’s Special (two eggs and signature potatoes), but feel free to let other menu items like the Banana Walnut French Toast or the Smoked Salmon Hash tempt your taste buds.

Before heading home, stop by Historic Smithfield, where families can discover the history of how Montgomery County was formed through the eyes of another family: the Preston Family. Established in the late 1700s as the home of William Preston, a political and military leader within the region, the house is one of the oldest in Southwest Virginia, and was once called a “plantation.”

Historic Smithfield Plantation

Today, the home is opened for tours and is furnished as it would have been during the time the Preston family resided on the land. Visitors also can visit the museum located in the basement of the house, which includes displays of historic objects and Native American artifacts from Montgomery County’s Shannon site, the most famous Woodland Period site in the area. 

Historic Smithfield also hosts classes showcasing how activities like yarn spinning and blacksmithing were done in the 1700s, so be sure to check out their events calendar to see if you can take a new skill home with you.
No matter the time of year you visit, ways to appreciate scenery, arts, nature and adventure with your family in Montgomery County are abundant. And even if you don’t get to see everything on your first visit, you’re always welcome back. So, go ahead. Go to Town!

Blacksmith at Historic Smithfield Plantation