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Saltville is a Birder’s Paradise

Nestled in the ancient mountains of southwest Virginia, the charming town of Saltville welcomes birders of all ages to experience the winter migration in person. Located just a few miles off of I-81 near the highest peaks of Virginia, it’s an easy three-hour drive from metro areas like Asheville, Winston-Salem, and Roanoke. 

Photo Credits: Monica Hoel

Lake Drive provides multiple spots to pull over and watch for waterfowl from your car, while the Helen Williams Barbrow Interpretive Trail is a great spot to learn about the area’s history dating back to the Ice Age. The true gem is the Saltville Well Fields, home to a rare inland marsh habitat, where you might spot Great Blue Herons, Lesser Yellowlegs, Redheads, Golden-Crowned Kinglets, Blue-Winged and Green-Winged Teal, Northern Pintails, and Yellow-Rumped Warblers.

Pick up a famous footlong hotdog from Buck’s Drive-In, one of the oldest drive-ins in Virginia, after a long day outside. It’s easy to find a cozy spot to relax at the end of the day. Spend a quiet night surrounded by nature at Old Rich Valley Cabin or Spenceville Farms.

Photo Credits: Monica Hoel

The most certain thing about birding in Saltville is that you’re never really certain what you’re going to see!

Cover Photo Credits: Monica Hoel

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