Things to Do
- - - #UniquelyAlleghany
- - - An escape to the Alleghany Highlands offers lots of ways to kick back and enjoy our way of life. A life surrounded not only by the beauty of the mountains, but also by a genuine friendliness that can only be found in small communities.
Places to Stay
- - - #UniquelyAlleghany
- - - You’ll feel right at home from the moment you arrive in the Alleghany Highlands. No matter where you stay, you’ll experience the friendliness and hospitality that the Alleghany Highlands of Virginia is famous for. We wouldn’t have it any other way.
Places to Dine
- - - #UniquelyAlleghany
- - - Alleghany Highlands has lots of unique, locally-owned restaurants, as well as nationally known chains. So, whether you’re looking for a quick bite to fuel the busy day you’ve planned or a relaxing meal with friends, you’ll have no trouble finding something to satisfy your appetite.
Uniquely Alleghany
- - - #UniquelyAlleghany
- - - Alleghany Highlands is home to many one-of-a-kind opportunities. The region is well-known for its exceptional outdoor recreation, including the best mountain biking in Virginia and world-class fly fishing. You may be surprised to learn about some of the other unique offerings in the area.
Reaching the Highlands
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Uniquely Alleghany

The Alleghany Highlands is home to many one-of-a-kind opportunities.

The region is well-known for its exceptional outdoor recreation, including the best mountain biking in Virginia and world-class fly fishing. You may be surprised to learn about some of the other unique offerings in the area.

Humpback Bridge

The center of the floor and roof are four feet higher than the ends, which explains the name of Humpback Bridge. It’s the only bridge of its design in the United States. Built in 1857, Humpback Bridge is now listed in the National Register for Historic Places. The bridge and the 5-acre wayside park around it have been lovingly cared for. No visit to the Alleghany Highlands is complete without stopping to admire this historic structure.

Cliff View Golf Course

Golf

Fourteen golf courses are located within a one-hour drive of the Alleghany Highlands, including the famous courses of The Greenbrier and The Omni Homestead Resorts. It’s easy to make the Alleghany Highlands a hub for a great golf vacation. Download a guide to golf in the Alleghany Highlands here.

Falling Spring Falls courtesy of JSeay

Falling Spring Falls

Just north of Covington is Falling Spring Falls, a stunning 80′ waterfall that is one of the most visited places in the Alleghany Highlands. The overlook is located on Rt. 220 and features a breathtaking view of the falls and a picnic area. See for yourself why Thomas Jefferson was so enchanted by Falling Spring Falls.

Covington C&O Depot

C&O Depot

The Alleghany Highlands is proud of its rich railroad heritage, which is on display in numerous places across the region. The C&O Depot in Covington was once a passenger rail station that has been meticulously restored to become a favorite gathering place for local citizens. The C&O Railway Heritage Center in Clifton Forge tells the fascinating story of the C&O Railroad and its vital role in the life of the community.

hiking at Douthat State Park by Angie Hinebaugh

Douthat State Park

Douthat State Park, which straddles Alleghany and Bath Counties, was one of the original six Virginia State Parks that opened in 1936 and is now on the National Register of Historic Places. At 4,493 acres, the park offers plenty of space for adventure on the trails and peace and quiet in the campgrounds and cabins. The park’s 50 acre lake offers trout fishing, boating and swimming at a sandy beach, but Douthat State Park is perhaps best known for its excellent hiking and mountain biking on 40 miles of trails ranging from easy to challenging.

kayakers on the Jackson River

Alleghany Highlands Blueway

In most cases a blueway – also known as a water trail – is a linear stretch of a river. Not surprisingly, the Alleghany Highlands offers a more unique experience. Two scenic rivers and two mountain lakes have been combined into one great product – the Alleghany Highlands Blueway. That means you can kayak or canoe on rivers with fun class I & II rapids or leisurely explore miles of lake shore. No matter which river or lake you visit, the fishing is always great.

Spring Sunset at North Mountain

Alleghany Highlands Trails

With roughly 50% of the Alleghany Highlands in the national forest, there is a lot of beautiful wilderness to be explored. Over 100 miles of trails can lead you to waterfalls, wildflowers or amazing mountain views. There are trails for hiking, biking and horseback riding. The Alleghany Highlands Trails site and trail guide can help you plan your next visit.

Civil War Markers Uniquely Alleghany feature

Civil War Markers

The American Civil War was fought between 1861 and 1865. Every part of the Commonwealth of Virginia felt the impact of the war. The Alleghany Highlands was the scene of a daring raid and a narrow escape for Union soldiers. The Alleghany Highlands also played an important role in supplying materials to the war effort. Four informative Civil War markers have been placed at historically significant sites in the Alleghany Highlands. Visit all four markers to learn about our region’s role in one of the most significant eras in American history.