tags:
Appalachia, VA, USA |
west virginia |virginia |tennessee |southern usa |road trips |north carolina |mountain towns |appalachian trail
Down in the Southern United States, you will find these quaint American towns nestled in the Appalachian Mountains. From food truck rallys and up to 6,683 feet of elevation gain, you are sure to stay entertained in these outdoor adventure towns of the South.
johnson city, tn
Population: 66,677
Here in the place known as "The Wagon Wheel" city, you have mountains in every direction. Head up to Winged Deer Park for a bike ride after work or hit up the bike park coming this spring, Tannery Knobs. Just outside of town, you will find a plethora of biking and hiking trails. The Appalachian Trail runs 15 minutes away, as well as rafting on the Nolichucky River. Hidden caves lurk around the outskirts of the city. Craft breweries are on the rise in the area, along with local food trucks.
Asheville, NC
Population: 89,121
There are over 20 breweries withing walking distance in this remarkable city known by locals as "The beer capital of the country." Sample freshly grown hopps and malty chocolate brews that have won several Great American Beer Festival awards right in downtown. Hiking and biking trails surround the city with just a skip away from the Pisgah National Forest. You won't want to miss the great jam lineups hosted by The Orange Peel. Try a Golem from The Wedge and float the French Broad River right across the street.
boone, nc
Population: 18,934
Aside from good beer and great company, you will also find America's highest community east of the Mississippi River at 5,506 feet above sea level- Beech Mountain. With skiing and a summer mountain bike park, the mountains here are big enough to share with everyone! Two other ski resorts offer snow activities in this beautiful town. There is a great music scene year long and some of the best barbecue of the South! Try the Blueberry Vino from Banner Elk Winery while petting the adorable alpaca.
Damascus, VA
Population: 8,083
Guest visitors like, Gene Espy, the second thru-hiker of the Appalachian Trail, frequent the Trail Days Festival that takes place every March in the town of Damascus. Thru hikers march through main street and often set up camp for the night as gear vendors and local crafts artists set up booths. Rent bikes from Sundog Outfitters to ride the 34 mile Creeper Trail that runs right through the festival. Find local freshly baked pizza on "the strip."
beckley, wv
Population: 16,972
Every year, Over 200 base jumpers gather to jump the New River Gorge Bridge near the town of Beckley, WV for Bridge Day. This unique event draws in viewers from all over the world to a mecca of hiking and biking trails. And what goes better with that than good pizza and beer? Subaru is often a major sponsor for the festival, and rafting down the Gauley River is a must!
Hot springs, nc
Population: 567
This community is very close-knit and proud of their town known for its relaxing mineral soaks. Hike the Appalachian Trail over Max Patch and meet locals up at the hill in winter for sledding and fresh powder lines. The coffee and Fourth of July celebrations alone make this a very special Southern town hidden amongst the hills of Appalachia.
Explore the South!