You won’t be-leaf these fall foliage views

September is a special time of year as summer transitions to fall. Soon, we’ll swap our iced coffees for pumpkin-flavored lattes, Friday Night Lights fill our schedules, and the temperatures will tick downward. 

We’ll be the first to admit that although every season is stunning in our corner of southwest Virginia, autumn gives our scenery and flora a special time to shine with vibrant reds, yellows, and oranges coloring our mountains. Beauty is all around us in Tazewell County: You can see it in the destinations and on the commutes you take to get there. 

Last year, we shared a list of must-visit destinations to check out in Tazewell County. This year, we’re sharing must-see routes. 

Back of the Dragon: Route 16

Potential Pit Stops: Tazewell

Who says you have to be a motorcyclist to take a ride on the Back of the Dragon? This beautiful, winding route will lead you through some of the lushest, most rural forests in our region, which means you’ll have plenty of unobstructed views of untouched scenery as you glide at a leisurely pace. 

The BOTD path on Route 16 begins in downtown Tazewell (city) at the Back of the Dragon Welcome Center and winds for 32 miles south to Mitchell Valley. If you’re in the mood for a festive brew or coffee, the Back of the Dragon Welcome Center is a great place to stop for your travels!

Burkes Garden: Route 61 + Route 623

Potential Pit Stops: Burkes Garden

Burkes Garden is home to some of our most splendid views in Tazewell County, but the route to get there is just as lovely! Once you reach Burkes Garden, be sure to drive around the “loop” that circles around the bowl-shaped region. 

While you’re there, consider stopping at Mattie’s Place or the Burkes Garden General Store for locally-made seasonal pastries and other baked goods. This route travels through dense forest with sharp turns. Be sure to take it slow and fuel up before you head over! 

Gov. G. C. Peery Highway: Route 460

Potential Pit Stops: Bluefield, Pocahontas, North Tazewell, Tazewell, Pounding Mill, Cedar Bluffs, and Richlands

When traveling from Bluefield south, you’ll likely be taking Rt. 460, also known as the Gov. G. C. Peery Highway. While a four-highway might be an unsuspecting route when it comes to scenery, this highway offers some of the best mountain views while you travel between cities!  

From golden sunlight illuminating open fields in Pisgah to the mountains covered in tinges of red, yellow, and orange en route to downtown Tazewell and Richlands, to the mountain overlooks in Cedar Bluffs, there are so many beautiful views to take in. 

Plus, if you need a seasonally-inspired drink, The Grind in Bluefield and The Well in Tazewell have plenty of sweet and spiced options for all ages!  

There you have it, travelers! If you plan on stopping along the way, be sure to bring your camera along. You won’t regret it!