Virginia has plenty of scenic drives, all of which highlight the state’s breathtaking landscape. While you’ve probably ventured to Skyline Drive or the Blue Ridge Parkway, you may not have attempted to drive the highest road in Virginia that leads up to Whitetop Mountain. Reaching an impressive elevation of 4,440 feet, Whitetop Road near Mouth of Wilson is not only a gorgeous drive, it just so happens to lead to one of Virginia’s tallest peaks in Whitetop, VA.

While all of Virginia's mountain drives are scenic, there's only one that holds the title of the highest road in VA.
Tony Juliano/flickr
Winding through southwest Virginia, Route 600 (commonly referred to as Elk Garden) is that very drive.
Google Maps
The photograph above, courtesy of Google Maps, shows Virginia 600 in relation to Elk Garden and Whitetop Mountain.
Perhaps unsurprisingly, the route takes many twists and turns as it slowly climbs up to a higher and higher elevation in Whitetop, VA.
Josh Bailey/YouTube
If you choose to drive rather than hike, be sure to take a leisurely pace. This corner of the state is simply exquisite.
Appalachian Snapshot/YouTube
Approaching the top of the mountain along the highest road in VA, you might notice a drop in temperature and possibly even a change in weather conditions.
Josh Bailey/YouTube
During winter months, don't be surprised to find a bit of frost or snow atop Whitetop Mountain.
Jamie T/tripadvisor

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And one thing is for certain: Once you get to the top of the mountain, you'll want to take your time admiring these famous views from the highest road in VA.
Josh Bailey/YouTube
On clear days, it's possible to see into the neighboring states of Tennessee, Kentucky, North Carolina, and West Virginia. You'll definitely want to bring your camera for plenty of sunset photo ops.
Jamie T/tripadvisor
Should you choose to opt for a hiking trail instead, there are plenty of ways to access Whitetop or the nearby Mount Rogers on foot.
Richard S/TripAdvisor
The Appalachian Trail runs nearby Whitetop, VA, offering visitors a chance to experience a portion of this 2,000-mile thru-hike.
Jason Riedy/flickr
So whether you take the drive to Whitetop Mountain as a means to hike to the top or continue along in your car, you won't be disappointed by the views that await you...
Charles Payne/flickr
...even on a foggy day!
Appalachian Snapshot/YouTube
Check out some more gorgeous shots of this picturesque drive:

Have you ever been up to Whitetop Mountain? What’s your favorite scenic drive in VA? Tell us in the comments below!

Want to add a little history to your scenic drive? Check out the historic Colonial Parkway.

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The Best of Virginia

Rachel Raimondi | December 11, 2022

What are the most beautiful hikes in Virginia?

Among its 42,774 square miles, there are some really beautiful hikes in Virginia. Try a few of these out:

Whiteoak Canyon Trail: Located within Shenandoah National Park, this seven-mile trail will take you to half a dozen waterfalls over a 2,800-foot elevation gain.

High Bridge Trail: Located in Cumberland County, this 31-mile-long trail used to be a railroad. There are several different parking areas and start points along the way, with the focal point being the 2,400-long High Bridge that sits over the Appomattox River.

Virginia Creeper Trail: Located in Abingdon, this rail trail is 35 miles long. Along the way, you’ll get an assortment of views from farmlands to small towns to forests.

What are the most charming small towns in Virginia?

If you are looking for something quaint and cozy aside from Whitetop, VA, check out some of these charming small towns in Virginia:

Woodstock: About 400 miles from the world-famous 1969 festival of the same name in New York State, you’ll find this small town in Shenandoah County. Its proximity to both the Shenandoah National Park and the Shenandoah River makes it a great spot for outdoor enthusiasts. You can also visit one of the many wineries here as well as the Woodstock Museum.

Farmville: No, not that Farmville. This one is a real place located within both Prince Edward and Cumberland Counties. It’s filled with historical sites such as Sailor’s Creek Battlefield and fantastic outdoor recreational areas like the High Bridge Trail State Park.

What are the most thrilling attractions in Virginia?

If you are in the mood to do some daring things, know that there are several thrilling attractions in Virginia.

Busch Gardens: Head to Williamsburg if you want to get your thrills from rollercoasters. The 422-acre amusement park has a European theme and also features animal exhibits, dining, sky rides, and a whole lot more.

Luray Caverns: This 64-acre cave is located in Page County. It is the biggest cave in the Eastern US and features tons of stalactites, stalagmites, pools, and more. And be sure to check out the Great Stalacpipe Organ, the largest instrument in the world.

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Whitetop, VA 24292, USA