Trail of the Lonesome Pine
Local Visitor Information
Discover more ways to experience this byway — photos and local partners.
Explore Resources
Find maps, guides, weather, and seasonal information for this byway.
Byway Overview
Trail of Lonesome Pine Byway traces the area in extreme southwestern Virginia talked about in James Fox, Jr.’s 1908 book “Trail of Lonesome Pine.” The area is known for its Appalachian music and its history of Daniel Boone blazing this trail in 1775. This mountainous area in the Jefferson National Forest has great views and wildlife and offers a very scenic drive. The byway section of Route 160 from Lynch, KY to Appalachia, VA has mountainous terrain and numerous tight bends, so it is closed to tractor trailers.
Quick Facts
- Designation
- State Byway
- Location
- VA
- Total Length
- 203 miles
Visitor Information & Byway Partners
Contact Details
For personalized travel assistance and local recommendations, please reach out to our regional visitor center.
Local Byway Partners
In extreme southwestern Virginia, the heart of the byway starts near Lynch, KY and travels Virginia Primary Route 160 to Appalachia for 8.02 miles. It also include a section on State Route 23 from Pound to Wise, VA
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Trail of Lonesome Pine
This official outdoor drama performs June-Aug and shares the life story of the area and its residents with visitors. Check the website for day and show times.
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Pound River Recreational Area
Camping, fishing, and hunting opportunities
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Birch Knob
On a clear day, you can see Kentucky, Virginia, West Virginia, and North Carolina from the peak. Located north of Clintwood, Virginia.