Sunrise
7:00 AM
Blue Ridge Parkway Sunrise Drive
Begin the day with cool air, layered mountain views, and golden light near Fancy Gap.
It’s Cooler in the Mountains
Adventure Seeker Itinerary
Two days of ridge views, cool water, backroad beauty, trails, and a little Appalachian wild.
Adventure Checklist
Ready for the mountains?
Pack the essentials before you head out.
Day 01
Hike, Float, and Find Your Cool
Start high on the mountain, move through forest and rock, then cool off on the water.
Explore
9:00 AM
Hike Devil’s Den Nature Preserve
Discover rugged rock formations, wooded trails, and one of Carroll County’s most distinctive outdoor stops.
Refuel
11:30 AM
Coffee and Breakfast in Hillsville
Pause for coffee, breakfast, or trail snacks before continuing toward the river.
Cool Down
1:00 PM
Float the New River
Choose a gentle float, paddle, or riverside adventure along one of the region’s most scenic waterways.
Wind Down
7:00 PM
Mountain Music or Local Dinner
End the day with live music, a relaxed local meal, or a slow drive back through the hills.
Day 02
Creek, Lake, Backroads, and Big Sky
A second day for travelers who want quiet water, long trails, and room to wander.
Fuel Up
8:00 AM
Big Breakfast Before the Day Gets Wild
Start with something hearty before heading toward creeks, trails, and backroad scenery.
Discover
10:00 AM
Big Reed Island Creek Adventure
Enjoy fishing, paddling, creekside exploring, or a quiet splash stop surrounded by rural scenery.
Reset
1:00 PM
Lovill’s Creek Lake Stop
Slow the pace with fishing, quiet water views, and a peaceful pause beside the lake.
Keep Moving
3:00 PM
New River Trail Bike or Walk
Add a few miles by bike or foot along one of Southwest Virginia’s favorite outdoor corridors.
Look Up
8:00 PM
Sunset and Stargazing
End with a quiet overlook, cabin porch, or wide-open mountain view beneath the night sky.
Before You Go
Check weather, trail access, river conditions, Parkway closures, attraction hours, and restaurant availability before traveling.
