Established in 1790 and named for George Wythe—a signer of the Declaration of Independence and America’s first law professor—Wythe County is steeped in history and outdoor recreation. From Native American pathways to Civil War battlefields, this scenic Southwest Virginia destination proves that Virginia is for Outdoor History Lovers.
Outdoor Recreation with Deep Roots
The New River Trail State Park is a crown jewel of Wythe County. Built along a former Norfolk Southern Railway line, the 57-mile trail traces the same paths once used by traders and coal trains. Hike, bike, ride horseback, or paddle beside the New River, one of the oldest rivers in the world. Interpretive signs, scenic overlooks, and landmarks like the Jackson Ferry Shot Tower—used to make ammunition in the 1800s—add a unique historical layer to your adventure. Just off the trail, The Inn at Foster Falls welcomes guests to a revitalized orphanage-turned-lodge, offering modern comfort in a timeless setting!
Wild Places, Living History
Venture into the Big Survey Wildlife Management Area, a rugged, forested landscape once traveled by Native Americans and early colonizers. Nearby, the Reed Creek Blueway and the New River offer pristine paddling and fishing opportunities along waterways historically used by the Cherokee and Tutelo peoples. Thanks to ongoing conservation efforts, these natural corridors remain rich in biodiversity and outdoor access, inviting today’s adventurers to explore the same land and waters that have shaped centuries of human history.
Downtown Wytheville is the perfect place to unwind after your outdoor adventures, offering local eats, rich history, and unique museums—including Skeeter’s World Famous Hot Dogs, celebrating 100 years in 2025!
Must Visit Museums:
- Edith Bolling Wilson Birthplace Museum: Discover the early life of First Lady Edith Wilson, born above Skeeter’s Hot Dogs in downtown Wytheville.
- Thomas J. Boyd Museum: Learn about Wytheville’s 1920s polio epidemic and local history through engaging exhibits.
- Homestead Museum: Explore daily life and farming traditions in a restored 19th-century home.
