Great Ways to Turn Fall into Fun in the NRV

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New River Valley, VA – September is a beautiful month in the New River Valley. Daytime temperatures remain summer-like, while crisp evening air subtly transforms the rich green hillsides, mountainsides, and roadsides into vibrant shades of yellow, orange, and red. Autumn is the perfect time of year to gather with friends and family and explore the region’s many wonders. So, join us as we explore Fall in the NRV! The list below has something for everyone, from exciting events to scenic adventures.

1. Sinkland Farm

Image courtesy of Sinkland Farm

Celebrating its 31st season, the fan favorite Sinkland Farms puts on a Pumpkin Festival that is unrivaled in the region. This year, the festival runs from September 23rd to October 30th and celebrates all things Fall. Featuring live music, local vendors, hayrides, and a dizzying corn maze, the Pumpkin Festival is an NRV staple that has something for everyone.

2. Doe Creek Farm

Apples have been grown on Doe Creek Farm for over 100 years. The pick-your-own apple orchard is perfect for kids and the “dwarf trees” allow even the smallest family member a piece of the action. Doe Creek is open every Saturday beginning 9/9 and ending when the fruit has been cleared from the trees. Check their website before you go to make sure you are up to date on hours and accepted forms of payment.

3. Virginia Tech Football

Image courtesy of Virginia Tech Athletics

It can’t just be a coincidence that football rhymes with Fall! Gameday in Blacksburg is one of the Towns great experiences. Even those not into the sport can enjoy the sights and sounds of 66,000 dedicated fans cheering on the Hokies. The fervor created during the team’s entrance song, Metallica’s famous Enter Sandman, has registered as a small earthquake on the Richter Scale.

4. Highlanders Festival

Image courtsey of Radford University

Celebrating its 25th year, the Highlanders Festival is a partnership between the City of Radford and Radford University. The festival began in the mid-1990s with a modest crowd of 3,000. It has since tripled in size, and now attracts an estimated crowd of 10,000. You don’t even have to be of Scots-Irish origin to attend (although if you plan to don a kilt, it helps). The Blue Ridge Mountains of Southwest Virginia provide a beautiful backdrop for the fall festival and the events are awe-inspiring! The festival is held on 10/8 and is open to the general public with free admission.

5. Mabry Mill

Image courtesy of Jeremy Riffe

Located along the Blue Ridge Parkway, the sights and sounds of rural Appalachia fill the air at Mabry Mill during the Fall. The old mill makes for a great “leg-stretching” spot for Parkway travelers and features cultural demonstrations, and a decades-long tradition of Sunday afternoon music.

6. Iron Heart Winery

Stock Image

Iron Heart Winery lives on a farm and was founded by a father-son team. Located in Pulaski County and built from the ground up, the farm’s history dates to America’s Industrial Revolution, circa 1882. The winery is a model of agro-tourism with a diverse array of activities and experiences that can be tailored to fit the needs of just about any guest. From cabin rentals to weddings, Iron Heart Winery is a must-see for a Fall trip in the NRV.

7. Pete Dye River Course

Fall is the perfect time of year to hit the links. The NRV is home to the stunning Pete Dye River Course. Located near the City of Radford, the 18-hole course is one of the best in the region. Sunshine, cool air, and fairways bordered by the beautiful New River make the River Course an easy pick for our Fall list!

8. New River Trail State Park

Image courtesy of Jeremy Riffe

New River Trail is a 57-mile linear park that follows an abandoned railroad right-of-way. The park parallels the scenic and historic New River for 39 miles and passes through four counties and the Town of Pulaski. The trail’s gentle slope makes it great for visitors of all ages to hike, bike, and ride horseback.

9. Floyd Music in the Mountains Concert Series

Image courtesy of the Town of Floyd

Music in the Mountains is a concert series that is sure to capture the ear of the music lover in your life. Fall in Floyd is perfect and the addition of local artists serenading as the sun sets is about as good as it gets. Put a priority on this series as the last date is at the end of September. Do not fret if you miss it this year however, the series wil be back in full swing beginning June 2023.

10. Hiking the Applachain Trail

Photo courtesy of Alyssa Moody

Giles County is an outdoor lovers mecca. The county boasts multiple access points to the Appalachian Trail and offers hikes for all skill and ability levels. For those who would like to notch off a piece of the AT without breaking a sweat, the Pearis Cemetery Trail is a fantastic option. Located just outside of the Town of Pearisburg, the trail is level and mostly gravel. There are even a couple of benches for sitting and soaking up the Fall colors. Budget about an hour (at a leisurely pace) for the out-and-back trail.

Find more things to do each day on our Community Calendar powered by Next3Days.

Click here to find out why the NRV is a great place to live, work, and do business.

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Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small-town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.

Top Ten Posts of 2020

Giles County Hikes with Views Featured in Go Hike Virginia

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Giles County, VA – Sweeping vistas, fresh mountain air, and abundant wildlife are just a few reasons to get out and explore Giles County. Go Hike Virginia recently featured an article detailing a trio of trails that are sure to please those yearning for picture-perfect panoramas.

Here’s a list of the Giles County trails featured in the article:

Kelly’s Knob: A Scenic Appalachian Trail Hike Near Blacksburg, Virginia

All elevation gain is experienced within the first .5 mile of this 4-mile gem located just outside of beautiful Blacksburg, VA. The out and back trail is pet friendly and is rated as moderately difficult.

Sugar Run Mountain: A Vista-Filled Trail Near Pearisburg, Virginia

This 10.8-mile loop hike offers rewarding views of the beautiful blue ridge mountains near Pearisburg, VA. The hike is strenuous and offers 2000 vertical feet of elevation gain! Budget at least 5 hours for this one and bring plenty of water!

Angel’s Rest: Big Views in Pearisburg, Virginia

This 5.0-mile hike is far from easy, but the double dose of far-reaching views makes this hike an absolute must-do when in mountainous Giles County.

Read the full article, including expanded details about each of the trails, here

Find out more about outdoor activities in Virginia’s New River Valley here

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Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities while retaining the charm and benefits of small-town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.

Regional Partnership Creates Two-Phase River/Trail Center in Giles County

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Giles County, VA – Giles County has announced a partnership with the New River Valley Regional Commission and the Friends of Southwest Virginia on the development of a new River/Trail Center.

The project will be located on the grounds of the historic Mountain Lake property, and will serve as an information hub for the plethora of outdoor recreation opportunities and services in picturesque Giles County.

Those who opt to add an activity such as mountain biking or paddling to the day’s adventures can rest easy knowing that logistical considerations have been made. Per the announcement, “Shuttle services are slated to connect visitors to hiking trails, mountain biking systems, and paddling launch locations throughout the County”.

Photo Credit: Giles County

A second planned phase of the project proposes the construction of a new trail connecting the Center to Mountain Lake Lodge and the peak of Bald Knob. “The New River Valley Regional Commission will be supporting the project by assisting with environmental coordination and other regulatory compliance requirements”.

Learn more about outdoor recreation in the NRV here.

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Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly-skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.

2021 Accolades and Awards for the NRV

2021 Accolades and Awards for the NRV

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New River Valley, VA – Virginia’s New River Valley was frequently recognized during 2021 as a premier place to live, work, and do business. Below is a list of just a few of the accolades won this year by the NRV’s counties, city, towns, schools, and universities.

Radford #9 Best Place to Raise a Family in VALife is Wonderful in Virginia’s New River Valley

FloydFest Wins Four Best of the Blue Ridge 2021 AwardsThe NRV is Known for Its Unique Festivals, Destinations, and Businesses

Lane Stadium Voted Best Football Stadium in ACCEnjoy Sports and Recreation Across the NRV

NRV Tech Companies Make Inc. 5000 List of America’s Fastest-Growing CompaniesCompanies in the Virginia’s New River Valley are Thriving and Growing

VT and Radford Among Best Value Colleges in VirginiaThe NRV Offers High Quality Educational Opportunities

Explore more NRV accolades and awards here.

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Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small-town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.

Recreation Economy Growing in Giles County

Recreation Economy Growing in Giles County

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Giles County, VA – The recreation economy is growing and expanding in Giles County. The county is one of only ten communities across the country to participate in the Recreation Economy for Rural Communities program through the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). According to the EPA, “[t]he Recreation Economy for Rural Communities planning assistance program helps communities identify strategies to grow their outdoor recreation economy and revitalize their Main Streets.”

Giles County was one of the ten inaugural communities selected to participate in this project, which started in 2019. Here is how the EPA described the Giles County project:

“Giles County, Virginia, worked with the USDA Forest Service to manage and use Cascades Falls and other natural assets to attract residents and visitors to downtown Pembroke, Narrows, and other communities in the county.”

Watch this video to learn more about Giles County’s project for the Recreation Economy for Rural Communities program:

Watch the video directly on YouTube here.

Learn more about the Recreation Economy for Rural Communities Program here.

Explore Giles County, a community in Virginia’s New River Valley, here.

Photo credit: Photo by Alissa Moody.

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Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly-skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.

Floyd Venues and Restaurants Featured in NY Times Article

Floyd Venues and Restaurants Featured in NY Times Article

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Floyd County, VA – The New York Times Travel section recently featured several Floyd venues and restaurants in an article titled “8 Places to Visit Along Virginia’s Blue Ridge Parkway.” In the article, author Marissa Hermanson details the beauty of the Blue Ridge Parkway in the fall and describes a road trip itinerary that visits prominent places along the Parkway in Virginia.

Notable Floyd locations featured in the article include Mabry Mill, Chateau Morrissette Winery, Dogtown Roadhouse, and the Floyd Country Store.

Here is what the article had to say about Floyd:

“[T]he laid-back mountain town of Floyd is on the map as a music destination.”

Read the full article from the New York Times here.

Learn more about Floyd County, a community in Virginia’s New River Valley, here.

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Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly-skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.

Pearisburg Named One of Virginia’s Picturesque Mountain Towns

Pearisburg Named One of Virginia’s Picturesque Mountain Towns

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Giles County, VA – Pearisburg was named one of Virginia’s Picturesque Mountain Towns by the Virginia Tourism Corporation.

Here’s what the article, titled “Discovering Virginia’s Picturesque Mountain Towns”, had to say about things to do in Pearisburg:

“An official Appalachian Trail community, from Pearisburg you can walk the world’s most famous footpath from town up to Angels Rest, revealing a worthy panorama of the enveloping New River Valley. While up on Pearis Mountain, walk a bit further to Wilburn Valley Overlook, lording over rural Virginia hinterlands. Hike to incredible and large Cascade Waterfall in nearby Pembroke. The New River beckons, too. Canoe, kayak or raft a section of the sometimes brawling, always beautiful waterway, featuring calm stretches mixed with mostly Class II rapids. Outfitters are nearby and there to serve you with boat rental and shuttle service. The New is also a nationally recognized smallmouth bass fishery.”

See what else the Virginia Tourism Corporation has to say about Pearisburg here.

Learn more about Pearisburg and Giles County, a community in Virginia’s New River Valley, here.

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Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small-town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.

NRV Disc Golf Courses

Play a Round at These NRV Disc Golf Courses

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New River Valley, VA – One of the best ways to enjoy the outdoors in Virginia’s New River Valley is to play a round of disc golf. Whether you’re a beginner or a disc golf enthusiast, make sure to explore all of these free, public courses in the region!

Golden Hills Disc Golf Course – Christiansburg, VA

Golden Hills is Christiansburg’s 37-hole disc golf course run by Montgomery County Parks & Recreation. It has two separate 19-hole courses, Golden Bear or Black Bear, which share a final hole. Golden Hills has a unique layout and “is one of only 19 [public courses] in the United States with 37 holes.”

Randolph Park Recreation Disc Golf Course – Dublin, VA

This 18-hole disc golf course is located at Randolph Park in Dublin. The course winds through the 87-acre park and is available to the public during park hours.

Disc Golf Course @ The VTCRC – Blacksburg, VA

The disc golf course at the Virginia Tech Corporate Research Center (pictured above) consists of nine holes located throughout Phase I of the research park. Make sure to enjoy the lake views by holes 1 and 2!

Camp Success Disc Golf – Narrows, VA

Camp Success Campground in Narrows has an 18-hole disc golf course available. The campground “boasts approximately a quarter of a mile of frontage along the New River and 500 feet along Wolf Creek.”

Municipal Park Disc Golf Course – Blacksburg, VA

Municipal Park Disc Golf Course is one of the newest in the region. It consists of nine holes and surrounds Blacksburg’s parks and recreation facilities.

Chantilly Farm Disc Golf Course – Floyd, VA

Chantilly Farm has a 9-hole disc golf course that is open to both camping guests and the general public. The camp store offers discs for rent or purchase if players do not have their own available.

Virginia Tech Disc Golf Course – Blacksburg, VA

Virginia Tech Rec Sports opened a new disc golf course in April 2021. This par-62 course is located near the Duck Pond and next to the Virginia Tech Golf Course. It has nine baskets with two tee boxes at each basket.


Disc golf is just one of the many outdoor amenities available throughout Virginia’s New River Valley. Learn more about outdoors in the NRV here.

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Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small-town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.

Mountain Lake Among Top Sustainable Destinations in Virginia

Mountain Lake Among Top Sustainable Destinations in Virginia

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Giles County, VA – Mountain Lake was recently featured as one of the top stunning, sustainable destinations in Virginia by the Virginia Tourism Corporation. The blog article, titled “4 Stunning Destinations That Define Sustainability in Virginia”, highlighted destinations that are “leading the way in sustainable practices that preserve the land and waters of [the] vibrant state” of Virginia.


Here’s what the article had to say about Mountain Lake Lodge:

“The historic Mountain Lake Lodge – where the iconic movie “Dirty Dancing” was filmed – is part of the non-profit Mountain Lake Conservancy, protecting 2,600 acres of picturesque Appalachian highlands. The untamed forest ecosystem safeguards stream water quality while protecting lesser seen flora and fauna, including the wide lip orchid and sought-for bird species like the Northern saw-whet owl and yellow-bellied sapsucker. The land, laced with enticing hiking trails leading to overlooks such as Bald Knob and Butt Mountain, is also used for scientific research. After a rewarding hike on the conservancy property, enjoy locally sourced farm-to-table dining at the on-site restaurant, Harvest. Then you can overnight at the Main Stone Lodge, a rustic cabin or modern mountain home, all set at 4,000 feet on Virginia’s highest lake.”


Read about all the sustainable destinations highlighted in the article here.

Learn more about Mountain Lake Conservancy and Mountain Lake Lodge here.

Learn more about Giles County, a Virginia’s New River Valley community, here.

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Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small-town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.

New River Among Favorite Rivers in the Blue Ridge Mountains

New River Among Favorite Rivers in the Blue Ridge Mountains

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New River Valley, VA – The New River was listed among 13 favorite rivers in the Blue Ridge Mountains by the editors of Blue Ridge Country magazine. The editors compared at least 50 rivers throughout the Blue Ridge region and created a list of their 13 favorites.

Here’s how the article describes the New River:

“Despite the name, this river is one of the oldest on the planet. It’s even thought to be more ancient than the Appalachian Mountains upon which it meanders. Unlike most rivers which plot their courses at lower elevations, this one runs on the crests and mountaintop basins. Its cuts and curves have exposed rocks dating back over one billion years, while the river itself is thought to be between 10 million and 360 million years old.”

The New River is an essential part of Virginia’s New River Valley. More than 89 miles of the New River run through the region, and it is one of the NRV’s major outdoor attractions. The river flows through most of the communities in the New River Valley and offers many unique experiences to both residents and visitors alike.

Learn more about Virginia’s New River Valley and the New River here.

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Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small-town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.