Get lost in the mountains and enjoy the crystal clear waters of the Alleghany Highlands of Virginia.
Find Your Flow
Grab your kayak or paddleboard and float the many lakes, rivers, and streams that make up the
Alleghany Highlands Blueway. Explore the Jackson River as it flows through Covington, Clifton Forge, and George Washington and Jefferson National Forest or follow the river on foot and bike for nearly 17 miles on the Jackson River Scenic Trail. Paddle the Cowpasture River, with a few smaller rapids, as it converges with the Jackson River to form the headwaters of the James River.
Visit Douthat Lake at one of Virginia’s oldest parks, Douthat State Park. Swim, boat, or fish on the 50-acre lake or explore more than 40 miles of some of the best mountain biking and hiking trails in the state, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. At the other end of the Alleghany Highlands, you’ll find even more boating opportunities all year at Lake Moomaw with 43 miles of undeveloped shoreline to explore. On your way back into town, visit two of the most photographed locations in the Alleghany Highlands – Falling Spring Falls, an 80-foot cascading waterfall, can be viewed from the overlook on Route 220 and offers breathtaking views of the Allegheny Mountains. Pack a picnic and eat beside the stream at Humpback Bridge or snap a photo in front of one of the state’s most unique LOVEwork signs.
Head to Alleghany Outdoors, located beside the Jackson River Scenic Trail, for all of your gear needs while in town. They provide kayaks, rafts, tubes, and bikes for a variety of adventures and operate a shuttle service, so you don’t have to worry about getting back.
Post-Float Food and Fun
After a full day of paddling, stroll through town for delicious eats, unique shops, and nighttime entertainment. Jack Mason’s Tavern and The Rail Bar & Grille are excellent spots for pub fare and a cold drink while The Cat & Owl provides an upscale dining experience. Pop into the Alleghany Highlands Arts & Crafts Center and Clifton Forge School of the Arts to enjoy a number of classes and exhibits or see a show at the restored Historic Masonic Theater.
A Variety of Places to Stay
Settle in for the night at one of the area’s cozy lodging options. In Clifton Forge, The Red Lantern Inn, Hill Crest Mansion Inn, and Ridgely Bed, Breakfast, and Historic Gardens feature spacious rooms and are within walking distance of restaurants and shops. Stay close to the adventure at Beaverdam Falls, a private nature preserve & exclusive camping destination that offers guests private enjoyment of not only a stellar waterfall & numerous cascades, but also the entire 60-acre property! The Evergreen Inn, right on the Jackson River Scenic Trail, and Cliff View Golf Club & Inn are also great options close to numerous outdoor recreational opportunities. You can explore even more scenic cottages and rooms in the area on Airbnb.
All of this, and more, is what makes this part of Virginia Uniquely Alleghany.
