Here in the New River Valley, one of the best ways to Go to Town! comes by taking the roads less traveled. Montgomery County is situated at the crossroads of Interstate 81 and Highway 460. No matter the time of year, the journey to Montgomery County will treat you to breathtaking views. The fall season in particular makes the trek into the New River Valley the perfect road trip for leaf peepers, as the mountain ranges are lit up by the bright reds, oranges and yellows of autumn.
If you’re already visiting Montgomery County and want to experience more of our breathtaking scenery, stunning views await along US 460 between Eastern Montgomery County and Christiansburg to the east and neighboring Giles County and Blacksburg to the west. Prior to the creation of US 460, the rustic route was used by horse-drawn carriages bringing visitors seeking the medicinal and relaxation properties of mineral springs to the summer resorts that built up around the springs. Calming natural scenery still abounds along this route. The privately owned historic Yellow Sulphur Springs Resort is the last remaining tangible evidence of this rich history in Montgomery County. It is no longer operated as a resort, but is home to the Healing Arts studio.
The famed Blue Ridge Parkway, just about 30 minutes outside of Montgomery County and described as “America’s Favorite Drive,” is a 469-mile trek winding its way through one of the oldest mountain ranges in the world. The Parkway welcomes millions of travelers every year who relish the chance to marvel at the exceptional views of regional flora and fauna, as well as wildlife and Appalachian cultural sites.
Travelers on Interstate 81 can access the Parkway gateway in Montgomery County via Exit 114. Route 8 connects the Parkway to Montgomery County and offers a fun trek for motorcyclists and auto enthusiasts alike.
Finally, U.S. Route 11 snakes north and south directly connecting small towns of southwest Virginia. It was dedicated in 1926 on the 150th anniversary of Montgomery County. Shortly after, diners and motels began to dot the route in support of the motoring travelers. Today, Interstate 81 runs parallel to Route 11 which makes it easy to take in as much or as little of a scenic drive as the travel schedule allows. Travelers can still find amenities such as local cafes, gas stations, and interesting shops alongside gently rolling hills and a majestic Allegheny mountain backdrop.
