Recognizing the Coalfield Counties have a unique culture, history, and scenic beauty, the VA Legislature created the Heart of Appalachia Tourism Authority in 1993 to tell that authentic story and promote this region as the exciting tourism destination it is. Focusing on our exciting outdoor adventure and serene scenic beauty, we promote the westernmost localities of Buchanan, Dickenson, Lee, Russell, Scott, Tazewell, Wise Counties and the City of Norton.

Come, experience and explore all the gems of Virginia’s southwest for yourself – treasure the Heart of Appalachia!

From its scenic foliage in the spring and fall to its snow-covered hills and valleys in the winter and lush greenery in the summer, Buchanan County is evidence of Mother Nature’s handiwork. The county is rich in history and tradition from the pioneer spirit of its earliest settlers to its rich legacy of timbering and mining. Named in honor of former United States President James Buchanan, the county was formed from the counties of Tazewell and Russell in 1858.  From Southern Gap Outdoor Adventures to the Breaks Park, to the Dismal and Levisa Rivers, there are plenty of opportunities to get out and explore. Hiking, biking, fishing and more await the avid outdoor lover. And, Spearhead’s Coal Canyon ATV trails offer 127 miles of off-road exploration.

Grundy
Vansant

Information source:  http://www.wildbuchanan.com

The rough mountainous terrain has greatly influenced the development of Dickenson County. Early settlers located along stream beds where the best farmland was to be found. The county was formed in 1880 from sections of Russell, Wise and Buchanan Counties. Named for William J. Dickenson, the delegate to the General Assembly who sponsored its formation, Dickenson County became the one hundredth county in Virginia – known today as “Virginia’s Baby.”

Breaks Interstate Park will forever be the gem of Dickenson County. From hiking, biking, rock climbing, kayaking, and camping to the luxury cabins, horseback riding, a waterpark, and recently added ziplines across the Grand Canyon of the South, there’s something for every adventure visitor.

Clintwood – http://www.townofclintwood.com
Clinchco – http://www.clinchcova.net
Haysi – http://www.haysivirginia.gov

Information source: http://dickensonva.org/index.aspx?NID=31

Formed in 1792, Lee County was named to honor General Henry “Light Horse Harry” Lee, a Revolutionary War soldier and Governor of Virginia at the time the county was formed. Located at the far southwestern tip of Virginia, Lee borders Kentucky and Tennessee and is home to some of the most pristine, natural landscape in Appalachia. Lee County is an integral part of Daniel Boone’s journey to blaze a trail through the Cumberland Gap, allowing the westward expansion of pioneers. From ATVing, to hiking, biking or paddling, there’s plenty to feed your outdoor adventure hunger in Lee County. The Jefferson National Forest, Wilderness Road State Park and Cumberland Gap National Historical Park are here to hike, bike, climb, and explore. Don’t just visit, experience Lee County.

Jonesville – http://www.townofjonesville.org
Pennington Gap – http://www.townofpenningtonva.gov/
St. Charles

Information source: http://ilovelee.org/

Welcome to Norton, the smallest incorporated city in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Centrally located at the intersection of U.S. 23 and U.S. 58 Alternate, and near the crossroads of three states, this little city offers a wealth of natural, cultural, and historic landmarks. There are ample opportunities to dine, shop, and stay awhile in this charming mountain community nestled beneath Flag Rock and High Knob, the highest point in the Cumberland Mountains. First settled in 1787 as Prince’s Flat, the settlement was renamed Norton in 1890 to honor Mr. Eckstein Norton, president of the Louisville and Nashville Railroad.

Norton – http://www.nortonva.gov/

Information source: www.nortonva.org and www.virginia.org

Nestled  in our Appalachian mountains, Russell County is rich with natural beauty, history and rapidly growing economy. Founded in 1786, Russell County was formed from a section of Washington County. The county was named for Colonel William Russell who participated in the drafting of the Declaration of Independence.  Russell has been home to such public servants as Daniel Boone, Governor H. C. Stuart, State Senator M. M. Long, State Senator Phillip Puckett, and State Senator Augustus Benton Chafin Jr.

Russell County’s natural beauty is unparalleled. Get out and enjoy a hike through the Channels, Pinnacle, and Cleveland Barrens Natural Area Preserves, stroll to Tank Hollow Falls or paddle the Clinch River, the most bio-diverse river in the Northern Hemisphere. Trek along our section of the TransAmerica Bike Route. Take a step back in time at the Old Russell County Courthouse and Museum or Dante Coal Mining and Railroad Museum.  Visit and tour our local vineyards, breweries, and distilleries. Whatever your interests, you’ll find your adventure in Russell County.

Cleveland – http://www.clevelandva.com
Honaker – http://www.honakerva.com
Lebanon – http://www.lebanonva.net
St. Paul – http://www.stpaulva.org

Information source: www.experiencerussell.com

Scott County sits within the Appalachian Valley in Virginia’s Heart of Appalachia region. The county, located along NE Tennessee’s state line, is surrounded by an abundance of scenic natural beauty. Created from parts of Washington, Lee and Russell Counties in 1814, Scott was named after General Winfield Scott. Visitors can follow in the footsteps of Daniel Boone, visit breathtaking railroad trestles or trace the history of country music. Five mountain ridges cut across the county where visitors can enjoy a variety of recreational activities. Hiking and picnicking in Jefferson National Forest or exploring Natural Tunnel State Park are just a few of the region’s leading attractions. Enjoy some toe tapping at the Carter Family Fold, homeplace of A.P. Carter and the world-famous family who led to the birth of country music.

Clinchport
Duffield
Dungannon – http://www.townofdungannon.com/
Gate City – http://www.mygatecity.com
Nickelsville – http://www.nickelsville.com
Weber City

Information source: www.explorescottcountyva.org

Tazewell County nurtures a special position in the majestic Appalachian Mountains of southwest Virginia. The Nature Conservancy declared the Clinch River Basin to be one of only twenty Last Great Places in the world (1990), and this basin, supporting the world’s largest collection of rare and endangered fresh water species, begins in Tazewell County.

Fish leap from native trout streams, the Clinch River,