Big Stone Gap: Culture, Trails and Mountain Views

Big Stone Gap combines theater history, mining culture and landscape experiences around the Powell River. Those planning a trip with varied interests will find opportunities here for cultural discoveries and active days in the surrounding area.

Culture and History in Big Stone Gap

The Trail of the Lonesome Pine Outdoor Drama is located in Big Stone Gap, is based on the novel of the same name by John Fox, Jr., and has been performed there since 1964. It is Virginia's longest continuously running outdoor theater. The Southwest Virginia Museum offers another way to explore the region's history. It is housed in a mansion originally built in the 1880s by Rufus Ayers, a Virginia attorney general. The exhibits document the arrival of the railroad, the development of the mining industry and the lives of notable residents of the region.

The Harry Meador Jr. Coal Museum focuses on photographs, mining equipment and mining tools. Its collection also includes memorabilia from private homes and public buildings in Big Stone Gap and surrounding communities. The John Fox, Jr. House is a historic Virginia landmark and serves as a museum and memorial to the Fox family. John Fox, Jr. wrote the novel The Trail of the Lonesome Pine in the house. Those interested in architecture can explore Big Stone Gap's Historic District, where architecturally significant buildings and state- or federally listed historic structures are located within easy walking distance of one another.

Trails, Water and Views

For exercise without a long day trip, the Greenbelt Trail is a good option. It is almost 3 miles long, follows the Powell River and is suitable for relaxed hiking and cycling. The trail can be accessed at several points around Big Stone Gap, including from Bullitt Park. Kayaking is another possible activity: The kayaking opportunities on the Powell River and its tributaries are mostly within walking distance of downtown Big Stone Gap. Fishing, kayaking and hiking are possible at Big Cherry Lake.

The Roaring Branch Trail is located near Big Stone Gap. The out-and-back hiking trail is 8.8 miles long and leads to an old-growth forest and a viewpoint at High Butte overlooking the Powell River Valley. The Powell Valley Scenic Overlook offers a different landscape experience. There, the elevation changes by 2,000 feet or 610 meters over a distance of 0.8 miles. The viewpoint is accessible from the northbound lanes of U.S. Route 23.

The 101 Historic Traincar combines railroad history with expansive views of Bullitt Park, downtown and the surrounding mountain ranges. It is an example of the typical construction of late-19th-century passenger cars and preserves much of its original equipment, including toilets, light fixtures and the speedometer in the rear observation area.

Which travel focus suits your accommodation search?

When searching for a holiday apartment in Big Stone Gap, it is worth defining your preferred daily routine. Travelers who prefer culture and historic sites can focus on the theater, museums and Historic District. For travelers interested in water and activity, a location connected to downtown is worth considering, as the kayaking opportunities on the Powell River and its tributaries are mostly within walking distance. Those primarily seeking forests, views and longer hikes should also consider the trails in the surrounding area and the Roaring Branch Trail. To compare other destinations in the overview, you can also open Wise.

For the higher-level travel overview: Wise County.