Damascus Virginia might not be that famous unlike other United States cities but it is worth visiting. with so many hidden gems and fun things to do in Damascus VA, the small mountain town will feel like your little secret.
Nestled in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, Damascus, Virginia, is a charming town that serves as a gateway to outdoor adventures and cultural experiences.
Known as the “Friendliest Town on the Appalachian Trail,” this small community boasts a warm, welcoming atmosphere and a wide range of activities to enjoy. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a history buff, or simply seeking a relaxing getaway, Damascus has something for everyone.
Here is a list of fun things to do in Damascus VA for your ideal tourist trip, which will encourage you to return frequently to this tranquil mountain town.
Fun Things to Do in Damascus VA
1 Hike the Appalachian Trail
Damascus is renowned for being a major trail town along the Appalachian Trail (AT). Thousands of hikers pass through the town each year as they trek the 2,200-mile-long trail from Georgia to Maine.
Every year, thousands of people set out to complete what is known as a thru-hike – an attempt to hike the entire trail at once. Many others set foot on the trail for just an afternoon or a weekend.
The AT passes through a diverse range of ecosystems, so hikers can encounter various wildlife, including deer, bears, snakes, and numerous bird species.
Along the trail, you might encounter “trail magic,” which refers to unexpected acts of kindness from volunteers and locals. This could be free food, drinks, or assistance to hikers.
2 Bike the Virginia Creeper Trail
If biking is more your speed, the Virginia Creeper Trail should be on your itinerary of things to do in Damascus VA. This 34-mile trail follows an old railway line through the mountains, offering stunning scenery and a gentle downhill slope for an enjoyable ride.
This is a premier outdoor destination for visitors seeking to add a little adventure to their lives. Best known for “the 17-mile downhill bike ride to Damascus”, however, some folks come from all over the world to hike, run, fish, bird watch, and relax in this great destination. You can rent bikes in Damascus and return via shuttle service for an easy day trip.
3 Visit the Damascus Brewery
After a day of outdoor adventure, unwind at the Damascus Brewery. This local gem offers a variety of craft beers brewed on-site.
With so many beers to choose from, it can be hard to know what to expect when you come to visit. The friendly staff and cozy atmosphere make it a perfect spot to relax, chat with locals, and savor a cold brew.
4 Explore the History of the Iron Industry
Damascus has a rich history tied to the iron industry. Visit the Mount Rogers National Recreation Area to discover the historic Virginia Iron Company Furnace, an important part of the town’s past. Interpretive signs provide insights into the area’s industrial heritage.
5 Mount Rogers National Recreation Area
Located in southwest Virginia, the Mount Rogers National Recreation Area manages approximately 200,000 acres of National Forest land near Mount Rogers.
The area features four Congressionally designated wilderness areas, the Virginia Creeper Trail, the Mount Rogers Scenic Byway which traverses over 50 miles offering views of the National Recreation Area and open rural countryside; the 5,000-acre Crest Zone featuring elevations over 4,000 feet, large rock formations, and a mixture of mountain balds and spruce-fir forests; a herd of wild, free-ranging ponies; and the highest elevated road in the state of Virginia leading to the summit of Whitetop Mountain.
Many activities are available in the area including camping, picnicking, sightseeing, bird watching, trout fishing, hunting, hiking, bicycling, horseback riding, cross-country skiing, and swimming.
6 Stroll Through the Damascus Old Mill Inn
The Damascus Old Mill is the first full-service restaurant and special event facility of its kind in Southwest Virginia dating back to the 1880s.
Located on the banks of Laurel Creek, the mill overlooks the grist mill waterfall, while ducks and geese float peacefully on the mill pond. Visit one of the most charming hotels in the state, located in “the friendliest town on the Appalachian Trail.”
We are also your best choice for Virginia Creeper Trail lodging. Unlike chain hotels, this Damascus hotel offers a personalized experience that will have you coming back for more. With accommodations in Damascus and a stone’s throw away from Bristol and Abingdon, you’ll be close enough to explore all of the trails and attractions nearby.
Also Read 20 Best & Fun Things to Do in Lexington VA
7 Laurel Creek
The Laurel Creek RV Park is a full-service, RV-based campground. The 21-site RV park, located along the scenic Laurel Creek in Damascus Virginia is open year-round.
The RV park provides a great spot from which to enjoy hiking, biking, fishing, swimming, and the many attractions of Damascus which is also the gateway to the Mount Rogers National Recreation Area and is a destination for families wanting to experience the out-of-doors in a relaxing setting.
In addition, many campers enjoy the convenience of Laurel Creek RV Park as a base of operations in order to take time out and explore this amazing tri-state area!
8 Attend the Trail Days Festival
If you’re in Damascus during mid-May, don’t miss the famous Trail Days Festival. This event draws hikers and visitors from all over the world to celebrate the Appalachian Trail. It features live music, food vendors, gear vendors, and even a hiker parade.
9 Try Local Dining
Damascus may be a small town, but it offers some delicious dining options. From classic Southern comfort food to eclectic cafes, you’ll find a variety of cuisines to satisfy your taste buds and also mingle with locals.
Relax in a Huge Open Deck as you get to taste Brick Oven Pizza, Local Steaks and burgers, Salads, and Local Beer.
You may get a cappuccino, coffee frappes, and delicious iced coffee breakfast at Mojo’s Trailside Cafe & Coffee House if coffee is your thing.
10 Go Horseback Riding
The stunning scenery surrounding Damascus is perfect for horseback riding. Several stables in the area offer guided trail rides, allowing you to explore the Appalachian foothills from a unique perspective.
The Mount Rogers National Recreation Area offers outstanding opportunities for horseback riding, including over 200 miles of trail open to equestrians.
Take some time to ride a horse through Damascus to see some of the gorgeous vistas the city has to offer. Don’t forget to bring your camera with you.
11 Explore Local Artwork and murals
Downtown Damascus is filled with intricate and colorful murals. A short stroll through the town will put you in front of many enormous beautiful pieces of art. You’ll find depictions of nearby landscapes and heartfelt tributes to the Appalachian Trail.
A mural tour would make for a lovely morning activity while sipping tea or coffee before the streets get crowded with foot traffic and vehicles.
Don’t forget to look at the unique bricks that make up the Community Pathways Project on the Appalachian Trail on Laurel Avenue. In order to commemorate their time spent hiking the Appalachian Trail or to remember a loved one, hikers and Appalachian Trail devotees buy and decorate bricks.
The hiker is frequently referred to by their trail name. You can see all the work and love that these people have put into the community as you stroll through the downtown area. A mural tour is a fantastic way to see Damascus’ culture and allure.
12 Visit Backbone Rock Recreation Area
Backbone Rock Recreation Area is located along Beaverdam Creek in northern Johnson County. Backbone Rock gets its name from a spur ridge on Holston Mountain that abruptly ends at a bend in Beaverdam Creek.
Backbone Rock is a large outcropping of stone that is actually an extension of nearby Holston Mountain. In 1901, an 80-foot-tall hole was blasted through the rock to create a passageway for a new railroad.
An additional small arch had to be chiseled by hand to create space for the smokestack on top of the engine. At only 20 feet long, Backbone Rock is the shortest tunnel in the world.
Simply walking the grounds and admiring the rock is worth the short drive. If you have more time, we recommend the short 0.3-mile hike to Backbone Falls, a 45-foot waterfall and swimming hole in the Backbone Rock Recreation Area.
13 Visit the Great Channels of Virginia
The magnificent Channels of Virginia should be added to your list of things to do in Damascus VA. Less than an hour’s drive from Damascus lies the 20-acre sandstone labyrinth known as The Great Channels of Virginia, which was created by permafrost and ice wedges during the last ice age some 400 million years ago! The labyrinth resembles a huge stone maze.
It’s a 3-mile round trip hike to the entrance to the Channels. You’ll pass a historic fire tower constructed in 1939 and take in glorious mountain views before arriving at the entrance.
14 Damascus Town Park
Damascus Town Park is a quaint riverfront park that highlights Laurel Creek, which runs through Damascus. The park gives visitors the chance to walk across the Virginia Creeper Trail Trestle.
At the park, you’ll find a historic caboose/camp car from the 1940s and a small train engine. Both of the exhibits recognize Damascus’ local history and the importance of the railroad in its development.
The playground and gazebos make this a well-liked location for parties and picnics. Live local bands frequently perform in the gazebo on Friday nights during the warmer months. Watch out for many varieties of trout in the creek water.
15 Visit Damascus Farmers Market
From May to October, Laurel Creek Park hosts the Damascus Farmers Market every Saturday from 9 a.m. until noon. It’s the ideal occasion to shop with a friend, lover, or member of your family. Examine the fresh meats, fruits, and baked items available locally.
Additionally, they offer handcrafted pottery and crafts from nearby artists on exhibit. Grab a coffee, look around for some interesting treasures, and enjoy some live music while you explore the beautiful town.
Best Time To Vist Damascus Virginia
According to a vast number of tourist travelers, the best and busiest months for tourist visits in Damascus, VA, US is October, followed by February and July.
Frequently Asked Questions About Damascus Virginia
Where is Damascus, Virginia located?
Damascus is situated in the southwestern part of Virginia, in Washington County. It’s near the border with Tennessee and North Carolina.
What is Damascus known for?
Damascus is known for its outdoor recreational opportunities, particularly its status as a hub for hikers and cyclists. It’s often called “Trail Town, USA” because it’s located at the convergence of several major trails, including the Appalachian Trail and the Virginia Creeper Trail.
What outdoor activities can I do in Damascus?
In Damascus, you can enjoy hiking, biking, camping, and fishing. The town is a popular starting or stopping point for hikers on the Appalachian Trail and cyclists on the Virginia Creeper Trail.
Is Damascus a good place to go camping?
Yes, Damascus and the surrounding area offer many camping opportunities. You can find campgrounds in the nearby Mount Rogers National Recreation Area and Grayson Highlands State Park.
What is the Virginia Creeper Trail?
The Virginia Creeper Trail is a 34-mile long multi-use trail that runs from Whitetop, Virginia, to Abingdon, Virginia, passing through Damascus. It’s popular for cycling and hiking and offers stunning views of the countryside.
Is there a local festival or event in Damascus?
Damascus hosts the annual Trail Days festival, which is one of the largest gatherings of Appalachian Trail hikers in the world. The festival includes music, food, gear vendors, and a hiker parade.
Are there accommodations and restaurants in Damascus?
Yes, Damascus has a variety of accommodations, including hotels, motels, cabins, and campgrounds. There are also restaurants and cafes where you can enjoy local cuisine.
Can I access the Appalachian Trail from Damascus?
Yes, the Appalachian Trail runs right through Damascus, making it a popular starting or stopping point for hikers on the trail. The town has amenities and services to support hikers.
What is the climate like in Damascus, Virginia?
Damascus experiences four distinct seasons. Summers are warm, while winters can be cold with occasional snowfall. Spring and fall are pleasant and popular times for outdoor activities.
How do I get to Damascus, Virginia?
Damascus is accessible by car via Interstate 81, which runs nearby. The closest major airports are in Roanoke, Virginia, and Tri-Cities, Tennessee.
