NRV Accolades and Awards in 2020

NRV Accolades and Awards in 2020

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New River Valley, VA – Throughout 2020, the New River Valley was frequently recognized for its outstanding lifestyle amenities, business growth, and educational opportunities. The region is truly a premiere destination to live, work, and do business. Below is a list of just a few of the accolades won in 2020 by the counties, city, towns, and universities that comprise Virginia’s New River Valley. Pulaski is 2nd Most Affordable Place to Buy a Home in VA High Quality of Life Floyd Voted Top Tiny Adventure Town 2020 Abundant Outdoor Amenities Harmonia Recognized as one of Virginia's "Fantastic 50" Expanding and Developing Businesses Exelaration Ranked #3 Best Tech Internship by Vault Educating Tomorrow’s Talent RU Ranked #33 Southern Regional University by U.S. News & World Report Top Tier Colleges & Universities Explore more accolades won by NRV counties, city, towns, and universities here.

Correction: September 1, 2021: This blog post was corrected to reflect that Pete Dye River Course was ranked #19 in the top 50 golf courses in Virginia for 2020. A previous version of this article incorrectly stated the course was ranked #18.

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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.
Cascades Among Top 5 Scenic Family Hikes in Virginia

Cascades Among Top 5 Scenic Family Hikes in Virginia

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Giles County, VA – The Cascades National Recreation Trail was recently listed among the top five scenic family hikes in Virginia by the Virginia Tourism Corporation.

Here’s what the Virginia is for Lovers blog has to say about the Cascades:

“Cascade Falls Trail in Pembroke, Virginia, offers one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the state, if not the entire East Coast.”

Cascade Falls is a beautiful hike no matter the season. Read more about hiking the Cascades here and see the Top 5 scenic hikes in Virginia for families here.

Learn more about the wide variety of outdoor amenities available in Virginia’s New River Valley here.

Explore more accolades won by NRV counties, city, towns, and universities 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.

Cascades Among Top 5 Scenic Family Hikes in Virginia
Lesser Known NRV Hiking Trails Featured in The Roanoke Times

Lesser Known NRV Hiking Trails Featured in The Roanoke Times

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New River Valley, VA – Want to escape outdoors for a hike during the COVID-19 pandemic? The Roanoke Times recently featured an article on lesser known hiking trails in Virginia’s New River Valley.

More and more people are heading outdoors this summer. The Outdoor Industry Association recently found that in April, May, and June of 2020, national hiking participation was up 8.4% compared to those same months in 2019. Because of this increased interest, some of the better-known trails in the region are crowded with hikers. Lesser known trails are a great option for those looking to physically distance while still enjoying the outdoor amenities and natural beauty of Virginia’s New River Valley.

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

  • Gatewood Reservoir Park, Pulaski
  • Harvey Lee Price Trail, Prices Fork
  • Mary Draper Ingles Trail, Glen Lyn
  • Narrows Mill Creek, Narrows
  • Ellett Valley Nature Trail, Blacksburg

    • Read the full article, including more details about each of the trails, from the Roanoke Times 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.

    Popular NRV Water Spots Win Awards from Blue Ridge Country Magazine

    Popular NRV Water Spots Win Awards from Blue Ridge Country Magazine

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    New River Valley, VA – Popular water spots across Virginia’s New River Valley won awards in the 2020 Mountain Blue reader poll from Blue Ridge Country magazine. The poll asked magazine readers to vote on the best water-related locations and businesses for each state in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Five locations and businesses in the NRV were included among the winners.

    Best Virginia Waterfall
    Cascade Falls (Giles County)– Platinum Winner

    Best Virginia Water-Related State Park
    New River Trail State Park (Pulaski County) – Silver Winner
    Claytor Lake State Park (Pulaski County) – Honorable Mention

    Best Virginia Swimming Hole
    Dismal Falls (Giles County) – Honorable Mention

    Best Virginia River & Fishing Outfitter
    Tangent Outfitters (Giles County)– Silver Winner

    These poll winners are just some of the many unique outdoor amenities that Virginia’s New River Valley has to offer. Learn more about the outdoors across 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.

    Floyd

    Virginia’s New River Valley Claims Top Trending Mountain Destinations

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    Virginia’s New River Valley – Two counties in the NRV were selected as the “Top Trending Virginia Mountain Destinations 2019” by Blue Ridge Country Magazine.

    Both Floyd County and Montgomery County made it into the top five for the state of Virginia. Floyd County is quoted as “a haven of natural beauty renowned for small-town hospitality and for a vibrant, eclectic culture of music, arts, outdoor recreation and local foods, farms and spirits.” They highlight Montgomery County as “a perfect mid-Atlantic destination for getting outdoors while staying connected to town amenities.”

      1. Floyd County
      2. Roanoke County
      3. Montgomery County
      4. Albemarle County
      5. Culpeper County

    The magazine chose their top eight locations based on increases in travel spending from 2016 to 2017 according to the U.S. Travel Association. Once the top eight was identified from the data, the readers voted on their favorite/hope-to-visit locations.

    Virginia’s top five locations, make up a larger top 35 locations for the Blue Ridge Mountains. Click here to read more.

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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 Trails in Virginia’s New River Valley

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    MONTGOMERY COUNTY, VA – Virginia’s New River Valley completes the last portion of the 10-mile Huckleberry Trail.

    The Huckleberry Trail runs from northwest Blacksburg all the way to the Christiansburg Recreation Center and Christiansburg High School. The newest portion of the trail connects to Brush Mountain in northwest Montgomery County where mountain bikers will be able to utilize the newly opened Blacksburg Rotary Mountain Bike Park, located at the south end of the trail.

    The trail is great for biking, running, walking, and taking in the sites of historic New River Valley such as Merrimac Mine Heritage Park, which pays tribute to the old mining company town.

    To read more about more upcoming outdoor recreation opportunties, read Su Clauson-Wicker’s articles of Blue Ridge Country.

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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.

    Blacksburg Mountain Bike Park

    Blacksburg Mountain Bike Skills Park Now Under Construction

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    FROM TOWN OF BLACKSBURG – On February 18, Lynchburg-based Native Landworks began construction on the Blacksburg Rotary Mountain Bike Skills Park located on the back four acres of Brush Mountain, off Meadowbrook Drive. The park is expected to be finished by mid-April.

    The Blacksburg Rotary Mountain Bike Park is a community effort, led by Blacksburg Parks and Recreation, with funding provided in part by the Blacksburg Rotary Club and over 150 individuals and area businesses. The primary purpose of the project is to establish an off-road experience in a structured setting that provides various riding opportunities and experiences to the public. The park will include 3560 feet of downhill trails with obstacles to give beginners and intermediate riders the opportunity to learn how to maneuver on the terrain; while more advanced riders can work on perfecting their skills.

    “We’re very excited to begin construction on the mountain bike skills park,” said Blacksburg Town Manager Marc Verniel. “The park will provide an additional outdoor recreation amenity for area residents and will add to our wider region’s appeal as a mountain biking and outdoor recreation destination. This project is possible because of the community members and organizations that have contributed their ideas and funding to support the park’s construction.”

    For more information on the park visit http://blacksburgmtbpark.org/ or contact Dean Crane, Director of Parks and Recreation at dcrane@blacksburg.gov or 540-443-1101.

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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.”

    VA Best of Blue Ridge

    NRV Has 5 Best of Blue Ridge Award Winners

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    BLUE RIDGE MOUNTAINS – Virginia’s New River Valley is home to 5 of the winners from the Best of Blue Ridge 2018 Awards. Plus, an additional 14 finalists call the NRV home!

    The 8th annual Best of the Blue Ridge Awards have over 100 categories for voters to input their favorites. Thousands of readers voted for the best food, drinks, business, places, and more.

    Check out the mentions in the NRV:

    VA Best of the Blue Ridge

    Winners

    Mill Creek, Best Biking Trail
    FloydFest, Rowdiest Festival
    FloydFest, Bust Music Festival
    Floyd YogaJam, Best Retreat
    Emily Satterwhite (Associate Professor of Appalachian Studies at Virginia Tech), Best Environmental Educator

    VA Best of Blue Ridge

    Finalists

    Cascade Falls, Waterfall
    Pembroke Pond, Standup Paddleboard Spot
    Kairos, Camp Site
    Jefferson National Forest, National Forest
    Mountain Lake Lodge, Luxury Destination
    Mill Creek Nature Park, Pet-Friendly Adventure
    Virginia’s Mountain Playground, Place to Play Hooky from Work
    FloydFest, Weirdest Festival
    FloydFest, Family-Friendly Festival
    Mountains of Misery, Bike Race
    Five Mile Mountain, Blue Ridge Booze
    Walkabout Outfitters, Outdoor Store
    In Balance Yoga, Yoga Studio
    Tree Tops Adventures at Mountain Lake Lodge, Zip Line

    For a complete list of winners, visit Blue Ridge Outdoors.

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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.

    Blue Ridge Parkway Mabry Mill

    Prime Time on the Blue Ridge – Southern Living

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    If you haven’t taken a little road trip along the Blue Ridge Parkway, now is certainly the time. As the leaves start to change and the air turns crisp, the beautiful, winding drive is sure to please. It truly is “Prime Time on the Blue Ridge.”

    Be sure to stop by the Floyd Country Store or Mabry Mill along the way.

    Blue Ridge Parkway Floyd Country Store

    Cheryl Zibisky

    Jason Frye from Southern Living recounts experience at Mabry Mill during his journey along the famous BRP:

    “To call this place picturesque is an understatement; Mabry Mill is a poem. The millhouse, built by Ed Mabry in 1905, sits on the edge of a small pond and is one of the most photographed stops along the Parkway. Today, with the play of color on the trees above and their reflections in the millpond below, it’s a real showstopper.”

    Read more at Southern Living.

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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 500 Kairos Giles County VA

    The New River 500 Event Returns at Kairos in Giles County, Virginia

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    FROM GILES COUNTY, VA– The New River 500 will be held October 19-21 at Kairos Resort in Giles County, Virginia and encompass over 500 kilometers of riding. This event is an all-inclusive dual sport adventurer’s dream. A multiple day opportunity to ride, socialize, and participate in on and off-road courses- you will want to mark your calendars for this. Bring your bike and experience rides through the mountains of the New River Valley. Come for the riding, stay for the fellowship and enjoy good eats, all at the New River 500. Dual sport bike rentals available for participants too, from GearHead Junction in Pearisburg.

    The New River 500 motorsport event will held at Kairos, an outdoor adventure haven located in the western part of Giles County. This property features an amphitheater, RV and tent camping sites, luxury yurts, scenic overlooks, and over 45 miles of trails to enjoy. Established in 2016 and opening its gates early 2017, Kairos has prepared a venue and space that pursues not just a place but a feeling.

    What is included in the registration: Access to Kairos property on Friday evening or Saturday morning, primitive tent camping for two nights, bathhouses, and necessary facilities, dinner on Saturday evening, souvenir t-shirt, and route charts for dual sport routes through the region. You are welcome to bring your RV as there is a well-appointed campground. Camping is included for primitive sites for both nights. If you want an upgrade you can do so. Throw in your camping chairs for the dinner and fun on Saturday evening.

    Want to participate but don’t have a valid motorcycle license? Kairos Resort has onsite trails and day passes every day of the year! They also have Polaris UTV rentals for onsite riding. Visit their website or call any day to take advantage of the property amenities.

    Stay up-to-date with event announcements by following the event on Facebook, by searching ‘The New River 500’ or visiting GilesCounty.org. To RSVP for the New River 500 call 540-235-2777 or register at the link on Facebook.

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    For more information about planning your visit to Giles County or about activities and events, please visit www.gilescounty.org or contact us at tourism@gilescounty.org.

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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.