Haysi VirginiaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Haysi, Virginia.
1. Breaks Interstate Park
GRAND CANYON OF SOUTH
Breaks Interstate Park is known as the 'Grand Canyon of the South' with a 5-mile long gorge created by the Russell Fork River. The park offers bountiful nature with richly colored mountains, mosses, and skies that create a stunning landscape. Visitors can enjoy various outdoor activities including hiking trails and scenic overlooks positioned 1650 feet above the river gorge.
2. Spearhead Trails - Ridgeview Trail System
SCENIC MOUNTAIN TRAILS
Haysi's Ridgeview Trail system opened in April 2017 offering a combination of tree-lined paths and open ridge trails. The trail system is part of the larger Spearhead Trails network that provides outdoor enthusiasts with multiple hiking and biking options. Visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of Southwest Virginia's mountainous terrain while traversing these well-maintained pathways.
3. John W. Flannagan Dam & Reservoir
WATERFRONT RECREATION AREA
John W. Flannagan Dam & Reservoir was authorized by Congress in the Flood Control Act of 1938 and provides a peaceful retreat for visitors. The reservoir offers various water activities including boating, fishing, and swimming in the pristine waters. This scenic location combines natural beauty with recreational opportunities for the whole family to enjoy.
4. Haysi Veteran's Memorial
WALK OF HONOR
The Veterans Memorial Walk of Honor is located at 331 Main Street in downtown Haysi. The memorial is thoughtfully situated overlooking the town, providing a place of reflection and remembrance. Visitors can pay their respects to those who served their country while enjoying the peaceful surroundings and scenic views of Haysi.
5. Haysi Mural
ARTISTIC TOWN HERITAGE
The Haysi Mural depicts the rich cultural and historical heritage of this Appalachian town. The colorful artwork showcases local traditions, natural landscapes, and significant moments in the town's development. Visitors can appreciate this public art installation while learning about the community's unique identity and history.
6. Virginia Coal Heritage Trail
HISTORIC MINING ROUTE
The Virginia Coal Heritage Trail runs through the Heart of Appalachia's coalfield region near Haysi. This scenic byway stretches more than 300 miles through the mountains of Southwest Virginia, showcasing the region's mining history. Travelers can explore numerous historical sites and learn about the coal industry that shaped the cultural and economic landscape of the area.
7. The Crooked Road
HERITAGE MUSIC TRAIL
The Crooked Road is a driving route spanning 333 miles through the scenic mountains of Southwest Virginia that connects major heritage music venues. Passing through Haysi, this cultural trail celebrates the region's rich tradition of Appalachian music. Visitors can experience authentic mountain music performances, learn about musical traditions, and immerse themselves in the unique cultural heritage of Southwest Virginia.
8. Down Home Spirits
LOCAL CRAFT BEVERAGES
Down Home Spirits is a popular attraction in Haysi offering locally crafted beverages with Appalachian flair. Visitors can sample unique spirits made with traditional methods and ingredients native to the region. The establishment provides a taste of local culture while showcasing the craftsmanship of Southwest Virginia's beverage artisans.
9. Kiwanis Park
COMMUNITY RECREATION SPACE
Kiwanis Park serves as a central recreational area for both residents and visitors to Haysi. The park offers various amenities including picnic areas, playground equipment, and open green spaces for community gatherings. Visitors can enjoy a relaxing afternoon surrounded by the natural beauty of the Appalachian mountains while taking advantage of the park's facilities.
10. Artists Collaborative Theatre
LOCAL PERFORMING ARTS
The Artists Collaborative Theatre brings quality theatrical performances to the Haysi community and surrounding areas. This highly-rated venue showcases local talent through various productions throughout the year. Visitors can enjoy everything from classic plays to original works that often reflect the region's rich cultural heritage and storytelling traditions.
11. Elkhorn Creek
NATURAL WATER FEATURE
Elkhorn Creek is a picturesque waterway that flows through the Haysi area, offering scenic beauty and recreational opportunities. Visitors can enjoy fishing, wading, or simply relaxing by the peaceful waters surrounded by Appalachian forest. The creek's natural setting provides an excellent opportunity for wildlife viewing and photography throughout the changing seasons.
12. Ralph Stanley Museum
BLUEGRASS MUSIC HERITAGE
The Ralph Stanley Museum celebrates the life and career of legendary bluegrass musician and native son Ralph Stanley. Located near Haysi in Clintwood, this museum houses an extensive collection of memorabilia, instruments, and interactive exhibits detailing Stanley's contributions to traditional mountain music. Visitors can learn about the evolution of bluegrass and old-time music while exploring the cultural heritage of Southwest Virginia.
13. Southern Gap Outdoor Adventure
MOUNTAIN RECREATION COMPLEX
Southern Gap Outdoor Adventure is a premier outdoor recreation destination located near Haysi that offers various activities for nature enthusiasts. The facility features ATV trails, camping areas, cabin rentals, and wildlife viewing opportunities including an elk habitat. Visitors can experience the natural beauty of the Appalachian Mountains while enjoying adventure sports and outdoor education programs.
14. The Great Channels
ANCIENT ROCK FORMATION
The Great Channels is a fascinating geological formation featuring a maze-like system of sandstone crevices located near Haysi. These 400-million-year-old sandstone outcroppings create slot canyons up to 40 feet deep that visitors can explore via a 6-mile round trip hike. The unique landscape offers photographers and nature lovers a rare glimpse into ancient geological processes that shaped the Appalachian region.
15. Devil's Bathtub
NATURAL SWIMMING HOLE
Devil's Bathtub is a deep pool of blue-green water known for being a spectacular swimming hole and natural wonder near the Haysi area. Accessible via a 4-mile round trip hike featuring approximately 15 stream crossings, this hidden gem rewards adventurous visitors with its pristine waters and picturesque setting. The natural formation creates a smooth, bowl-shaped basin where water swirls before continuing downstream through the forest.