Attractions » Virginia Green
Southwest Virginia Museum - More Info
Southwest Virginia Museum Historical State Park
Big Stone Gap, VA 24219
Website: www.dcr.virginia.gov/state_parks/sou.shtml
Phone: (276) 523-1322
E-mail: swvamuseum@dcr.virginia.gov
Dedicated in 1948, the Southwest Virginia Museum in Big Stone Gap chronicles the exploration and development of the region. The museum houses a collection of items from the region. The collection was started by C. B. Slemp, who served in Congress from 1907 to 1923 and was President Coolidge’s personal secretary. A lovely Victorian parlor in the four-story mansion is available to rent for meetings and other small gatherings. The gift shop features many one-of-akind items. The quaint Poplar Hill Cottage is available for overnight accommodations. Special events include A Stitch in Time: Quilt Show in April through May 31, the Fall Antique Appraisal, and the Festival of Trees in mid-November through Dec. 31. You’ll find it at (Alt. Route 58), just off Route 23 in Big Stone Gap.
Wilderness Road State Park - More Info
8051 Wilderness Road
Ewing, VA 24248
Website: www.dcr.virginia.gov/state_parks/wil.shtml
Phone: (276) 445-3065
E-mail: wildernessroad@dcr.virginia.gov
Wilderness Road State Park was purchased in 1993. The park is about 310 acres that lie astride the Wilderness Road, a route carved by Daniel Boone in 1775. The route, which followed a buffalo trace, opened America's first western frontier. Most notable in the park are the Karlan Mansion built in the 1877, a state-of-the-art visitor center and Martin's Station, a replica of a colonial frontier fort that was on this site in 1775. Bikes can be rented to ride the Wilderness Road Trail, an eight-mile multi-purpose trail that passes through the park. The park also has the Indian Ridge Trail, which is a self-guided trail, and offers interpretive and environmental educational programs. Snacks and other merchandise are available year-round at the Powder Horn Gift Shop in the visitor center.
