Things to Do in Highland County

Highland County offers diverse outdoor activities, primarily hiking and mountain biking. The region features 4 routes across various sports, with an average rating of 4.5 stars from more than 30 visitors. It is also known for its dark skies, suitable for stargazing.

Highland County is often called 'Virginia's Switzerland' due to its high mean elevation and pristine mountain landscapes within the Appalachian Mountains. Its low population density provides a sense of solitude, and it is home to the headwaters of major rivers. The region also features the Laurel Fork Proposed Wilderness Area.

Yes, Highland County offers a variety of hiking trails. Hayfields State Park provides 4.0 miles (6.5 km) of trails, and the Highland Wildlife Management Area (WMA) spans over 14,000 acres, offering extensive hiking opportunities. More details can be found in the Hiking in Highland County guide.

Highland County is suitable for mountain biking, particularly on its rural mountain roads which offer challenging hills and unspoiled views. The area is part of the TransVirginia Bike Route. Information on routes is available in the MTB Trails in Highland County guide.

Highland County offers routes suitable for various skill levels. While specific beginner routes are not detailed, areas like Hayfields State Park provide trails that can accommodate different experience levels. It is advisable to check individual route descriptions for difficulty ratings.

Highland County is characterized by its Ridge-and-Valley province, including the Alleghany, Bluegrass, and Bullpasture Valleys. It features extensive forests, unspoiled waterways, and is the source of the James and Potomac Rivers. The Laurel Fork Proposed Wilderness Area is also a significant natural highlight.

Komoot offers dedicated guides for outdoor activities in the region. These include Hiking in Highland County and MTB Trails in Highland County. These guides provide detailed information and route suggestions for explorers.

Highland County has garnered attention from the komoot community, with more than 30 visitors sharing their experiences. The routes in the region have an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars. This indicates a positive reception from users exploring its outdoor offerings.

Policies regarding dogs on trails can vary by specific location within Highland County, such as state parks or wildlife management areas. It is recommended to check the regulations for each specific trail or area before bringing a dog.

For official tourism information, the website www.highlandcounty.org serves as a primary resource. General inquiries can also be directed to the Highland County Chamber of Commerce at +1-540-468-2550.

Highland County is known for its maple syrup industry, one of the southernmost in the U.S., celebrated annually at the Highland Maple Festival. It also features Virginia's first Barn Quilt Trail, adding a unique cultural element to its rural landscape. The dark skies attract stargazers for events like the Highland County Star Party.

Highland County boasts one of the highest mean elevations east of the Mississippi River. This characteristic contributes to its mountainous terrain and cooler summers. The region lies within the Ridge-and-Valley province of the Appalachian Mountains.