Virginia’s Adventure Towns: Big Stone Gap – Mountains, Music, and Culture with Town Manager Steve Lawson (Ep 73, Part 1)

The mountains of Appalachia wrap around Big Stone Gap like a warm embrace, creating a community where outdoor adventure, history, and culture converge.

Town Manager, Steve Lawson, describes how the community has transformed from its coal mining roots into a vibrant outdoor recreation destination.

The town's crown jewel is the Greenbelt Trail, a scenic paved path following the Powell River through the heart of town. Just minutes away, the Powell River Trail offers a rail-to-trail experience featuring historic tunnels and visible coal seams that tell the story of the region's mining past. 

Adventure seekers will fall in love with scenic Big Cherry Lake, which offers fishing, hiking, paddling, and wildlife watching. 

Round out your Big Stone Gap experience with museums, outdoor theater, music festivals, and a culinary scene that tops off this adventure town’s charm. Let’s Go!

Join us next week for Part 2 as Steve and I dive into Big Stone Gap’s local attractions, including museums, outdoor theater, music festivals and dining. You won’t want to miss an exciting giveaway for a pair of tickets to Blue Highway Fest, one of the largest Bluegrass festivals that celebrates Appalachia’s rich music heritage.

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Mentioned in this Episode:

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Contact show host, Jessica Bowser:

jessica@virginiaoutdooradventures.com