Attractions » Wildlife Observation

DCR Pinnacle Natural Area Preserve - More Info

Towering cliffs, sheer limestone ledges, and waterfalls are but a few of the spectacular features of this preserve. Located near the confluence of the Clinch River and Big Cedar Creek, the topography of Pinnacle NAP has been modified by the forces of weather, water, and time to create this dramatic landscape. Towering above Big Cedar Creek is an impressive rock formation, the Pinnacle, from which the area derives its name. Cut from dolomite, the Pinnacle rises 400 feet above Big Cedar Creek. The Preserve's unique habitats support at least nine rare species and two rare natural communities.

The preserve is open year-round. Public facilities include parking, a suspension foot-bridge, and hiking trails.A preserve guide factsheet and map are available to assist in planning your visit at www.dcr.virginia.gov. 

Part or all of the preserve may be periodically closed for resource protection or prescribed burning activities.

DRIVING DIRECTIONS:
From Abingdon, follow US 19 north to Lebanon. Take US 19 (Business) into Lebanon. Turn left onto VA 82 towards Cleveland. Turn right onto VA 640. Bear right onto VA 640 where VA 740 comes in. Turn left onto VA 721 and follow it into the preserve.

Flag Rock Recreation Area - More Info

From the City of Norton, Flag Rock can be seen as a rock outcrop capped with an American Flag, thus the name "Flag Rock". The recreation site sits over 1,000 feet above the City's elevation of 2,350 ft. The site offers twenty-five acres of recreation area with spectacular views, hiking trails, a fishing area, playground equipment and 18 camping slots. Bath houses have hot and cold water. Two large shelters and several smaller ones are available for picnicking. There are over 50 picnic tables with grills.  Camping is also available. Two large shelters are available by reservation only, for a fee of $50.00 per shelter. All camping sites have electricity and are $15.00 per site, per night.  Camping is first come first serve. Payment for camping is available at a self service pay station located between the upper and lower campgrounds.  For more information call the Norton Recreation Department at 276 679-0754

Bullitt Park - More Info

Located in Big Stone Gap in Southwest Virginia. Bullitt Park is the largest of nine community parks operated by the Big Stone Gap Department of Parks and Recreation. The park includes a football field, tennis courts, fitness and biking trails, large playground, picnic areas, pavilions and a track. Serving as a park since 1935, it is the site for many community activities such as singing conventions, band festivals and craft shows. Bullitt Park was named for Joshua Taggart Bullitt, an early entrepreneur, land speculator and coal mining baron.

Trans-America Bike Route - More Info

This bike route follows Rt. 80 through Dickenson and Russell Counties. Route 80 can be accessed from Saltville (Smyth County) or at Elk Garden off US Hwy. 19 in Russell County.

Graham Recreation Park - More Info

Owned by the Town of Bluefield, VA, this 57 acre park has room for lots of activity. The land ranges from gently sloping to higher hills.   It has an ampitheatre, 1 small and 3 large nice covered shelters available for rental for birthday parties, baby, bridal, or household showers, family reunions, or other approved events.    Sporting events can be held there by local teams. Plenty of parking, paved road through most of the park. Bring your own chair or blanket for seating.  A great place to walk for exercise on the walking trail.  A caboose is in the park to tour and  playground equipment for the younger kids.  Restrooms available. 

The park is generally open from March to November, weather permitting from daylight till dark.  There is a walk gate that makes the park accessible year round. 

Contact the Town of Bluefield, VA for any questions, reservation availabilities and fees.

Cumberland Mountain View Drive - More Info

This 19-mile back roads excursion begins five miles south of the Breaks Interstate Park. The drive connects the park to the town of Clintwood, VA. The drive offers attractions like Blowing Rock, a farm, a wildlife farm, caving, hiking, horseback riding, hunting, whitewater rafting and primitive camping are all accessible from Rt. 611.
Self guided driving brochures are available.

Rt. 611 Cumberland Mountain Scenic Drive - More Info

Rt. 611 Cumberland Mountain Scenic Drive was designated in 2009 as a Virginia Scenic Byway.

Beginning in Clintwood, and winding through the Mountains, you will find several tourism attractions spurring off the route. Birch Knob Tower located in the Jefferson National Forest, Airplane Rock overlook, John Flannagan Dam and Reservoir, Branham Farm, Virginia Birdwatching Trail, Horseback riding trails, hiking trails, mountain streams as well as an abundance of wildlife viewing along the drive.

The road is approximately 21 miles in length and ends up in Bartlick Section of Dickenson County meeting up with Rt. 80, only five miles from the Breaks Interstate Park. Great drive for motorcyclists also.