Appalachian mountain range | Article about Appalachian mountain range by The Free Dictionary Appalachian mountain range | Article about Appalachian mountain range by The Free Dictionary Related to Appalachian mountain range: Scandinavian Peninsula , Appalachian Trail Appalachian Mountains (ăpəlā`chən, –chēən, –lăch`–), mountain system of E North America, extending in a broad belt c.1,600 mi (2,570 km) SW from the Gaspé Peninsula in Quebec prov., Canada, to the Gulf coastal plain in Alabama. Main sections in the system are the White Mts., Green Mts., Berkshire Hills, Catskill Mts., Allegheny Plateau, Black Mts., Great Smoky Mts., Blue Ridge, and Cumberland Plateau. To the E is the Piedmont (foothill) region. The Appalachians, much-eroded remnants of a great mass formed by folding (see mountains mountain, high land mass projecting conspicuously above its surroundings and usually of limited width at its summit. Although isolated mountains are not unusual, mountains commonly form ranges, comprising either a single complex ridge or a series of related ridges. ..... Click the link for more information. ), consist largely of sedimentary rocks.

Mt. Mitchell (6,684 ft/2,037 m) in North Carolina's Black Mts. is the highest peak. The Great Appalachian Valley or Great Valley is a chain of lowlands extending S and W from the Hudson Valley; its main segments are the Lehigh, Lebanon, Cumberland, and Shenandoah valleys; the Valley of Virginia; and the Valley of East Tennessee. Long a major north-south travel and settlement corridor, the Great Valley is one of the most fertile areas in the E United States. The Appalachians are rich in coal; other resources include iron, petroleum, and natural gas. The scenic ranges also abound in resorts and recreation areas, including Shenandoah and Great Smoky Mts. national parks. The Appalachian Trail Appalachian Trail, officially Appalachian National Scenic Trail, hiking path, 2,144 mi (3,450 km) long, passing through 14 states, E United States. Conceived in 1921 by Benton MacKaye, forester and regional planner, and completed in 1937, the trail extends along the ..... Click the link for more information.

winds 2,050 mi (3,299 km) along the ridges of the Appalachians between Mt. Katahdin, Maine, and Springer Mt., Georgia. Crossed by few passes, the Appalachians were a barrier to early westward expansion and played an important role in U.S. history; major east-west routes like the Cumberland Gap Cumberland Gap, natural passage through the Cumberland Mts., near the point where Virginia, Kentucky, and Tennessee meet. The gap was formed by the erosive action of a stream that once flowed there. It was explored and named in 1750 by Dr. ..... Click the link for more information. and Mohawk Trail Mohawk Trail. 1 Old road (c.100 mi/160 km long) in central New York state following the Mohawk River. It was the sole route through the Appalachians by which thousands of settlers emigrated from the Eastern seaboard to the Midwest. ..... Click the link for more information. followed river valleys or mountain notches. Appalachia is a name applied to parts of the region that were long characterized by marginal economy, isolation of its people from the U.S. mainstream, and distinctive folkways.

Bibliography See E. Porter, Appalachian Wilderness (1970); H. M. Caudill, My Land is Dying (1971); M. Brooks, The Appalachians (1986); H. D. Shapiro, Appalachia on Our Mind (1986). Appalachian Mountains a mountain system in eastern North America, in the USA and Canada, forming a belt of ranges and ridges, valleys, plateaus and tableland, from 300 to 500 km in width and extending for 2,600 km southwest to northeast from 33° N lat. to 49° N lat. The principal ranges are the Blue Ridge Mountains, White Mountains, Adirondacks, and Green Mountains. The Appalachian Plateau should also be noted. The dominating altitudes are 1,300–1,600 m (the highest peak is Mount Mitchell, 2,037 m). The Appalachians were uplifted on the site of a géosynclinal system which developed actively in the Paleozoic era on a late Precambrian folded foundation. The mountains were leveled during the Jurassic Paleocene period.

Mountains reappeared in the Neocene-Anthropogenic period, when the territory of the modern Appalachians underwent a domed uplift, which resulted in the vigorous breakup of the surface and the formation of the modern terrain. The ranges consist of folded rocks and boulders and are divided by intermontane erosional valleys and basins. During the Anthropogenic period the northern part of the Appalachians underwent glaciation, while the southern part remained in a warm and humid climate. As a result forests of broad-leaved and evergreen trees were able to survive there and subsequently to spread over a large part of the Appalachians. By structure and development the Appalachians are divided into the northern and southern regions (with the borderline approximately at the latitude of New York City). The northern Appalachians border on the Canadian Shield in the northwest, along a huge fault (the Logan line). They lack frontal sag and consist of a narrow belt of lower Paleozoic sedimentary deposits in the northwest and a wider belt of igneous, intrusional magmatites and metamor-phic rock in the southeast.

The main tectonic periods for the northern Appalachians were the Taconic (at the end of the Ordovician) and the Acadian (at the end of the Devonian). During the Carboniferous-Permian period intermontane sag developed in the interior, filled mainly with continental deposits, first coal-bearing and then red in color. The southern Appalachians border on the midcontinental plate of the North American platform via the cis-Appalachian sag, comprising Upper Paleozoic deposits, with which important deposits of coal, oil, and gas are linked. The external, wider zone of the southern Appalachians (Valley and Ridge Province) consists of folds pointing northwest and accumulations of Lower and Middle Paleozoic rocks. The interior zone (the Blue Ridge Mountains) is made up of metamorphic sedimentary igneous Lower and Middle Paleozoic and Upper Precambrian rocks and granites. The final uplift and folding of the southern Appalachians occurred toward the end of the Paleozoic era. In the late Triassic period the structure of the Appalachians was complicated by grabens that were filled with red continental deposits and basalt extrusions.

The climate of the Appalachians is modified by the influence of the Atlantic Ocean and especially of the Gulf of Mexico. It is temperate in the north and subtropical in the south. The average temperature in January ranges from - 12°C in the north to 8°C in the south; in July the average ranges from 18°C to 26°C. Annual precipitation is from 1,000 to 1,300 mm. In the winter there are heavy frosts in the upper zone of the mountains, and much snow falls. The valleys are drier and warmer. The summers are humid and cloudy; rainfall is abundant, especially on the western slopes. The clearest and sunniest weather comes at the end of summer and beginning of autumn. The rivers flow in deep valleys; the flow is abundant all year round, providing considerable reserves of hydro-power. Drainage altitude ranges from 30 cm in the north to 40 cm in the south. The largest rivers are the Connecticut, Hudson, Susquehanna, and Tennessee. They overflow their banks frequently because of melting snow in the spring and heavy rainfall in the summer. The major rivers of the northern Appalachians are navigable.

As they fall from the eastern edge of the Piedmont, most of the rivers form rapids and waterfalls (the so-called fall line), which are used in part for power production. The Appalachians may be divided into two sections according to geomorphological characteristics. The northern Appalachians (as far as New York City) are a leveled-off plateau, 400 to 600 m high, with rocky massifs and ridges or ranges rising above it—the Adirondacks (1,628 m), the Green Mountains (1,338 m), the White Mountains (1,916 m), and others. The mountains have flattened tops, slanting slopes, and occasional dissected cirques. The massifs are divided by tectonic valleys, which have been transformed into troughs (the largest are along the Hudson-Mohawk-Connecticut rivers and Lake Champlain). The depressed sections, especially along the Atlantic coast, are hilly and covered with glacial deposits. The soils are mountainous, podzolic, and turf-podzolic.

The vegetation consists of coniferous and mixed forests of fir, silver fir, thuja, hemlock, maple, elm, beech, yellow birch, hickory, and basswood. The southern Appalachians have a more varied terrain. Their eastern foothills are made up of flat, poorly separated valleys of the Piedmont plateau (altitude from 40–80 m in the east and up to 400 m in the west). Rising sharply above the plateau are the Blue Ridge Mountains with steep slopes and undulating or domed peaks (altitude 2,037 m—Mount Mitchell). The western slope of the range falls steeply to a long depression, the so-called Great Valley. The western foothills of the Appalachians form the Appalachian Plateau, criss-crossed by narrow and deep valleys and sloping gently from 1,500 m in the east down to 500 m in the west. The predominating soils are mountain dark brown forest soils; in the foothills, the soils are red and yellow earth.

Up to an altitude of around 1,000 m there are broad-leafed forests consisting of numerous species of oak, maple, ash, and many endemic and relic species (tulip tree, magnolia, planer tree, white acacia, and others); above 1,000 m the forests are mixed and coniferous, characteristic for the northern Appalachians. Subalpine vegetation is widespread in the upper belt of the mountains (rhododendron, alders). The forests have been badly depleted. The most characteristic fauna of the Appalachians includes numerous endemic species: whitetail deer, Virginian opossum, and several species of bats; there are also tree porcupines, American black bears, lynxes, raccoon, skunks, otters, and others. The Appalachians are a very important area for hiking, skiing, water sports, and hunting. The Shenandoah and Great Smoky Mountains national parks, the Blue Ridge Parkway, and other features are well known. REFERENCES Heart of Appalachia » Attractions Add to trip Animal Kingdom of VA LLC Animal Kingdom of VA is a small privately owned exotic animal facility in Southwest Virginia dedicated to the conservation of exotic species.

Animal Kingdom of VA LLC is licensed and regulated by... More info, map and hours Add to trip Appalachia, Town of The town of Appalachia is considered to be a largely intact "era" town of the late 1800s, early 1900s. At one time, the town was the center of a booming coal mining culture. It was the hub of eight... More info, map and hours Add to trip Appalachian African-American Cultural Center The building that once housed the only primary school for blacks in Pennington Gap, Lee County, Virginia, is now the Appalachian African-American Cultural Center. Besides preserving Appalachian black... More info, map and hours Add to trip Appalachian Arts Center The Appalachian Arts Center is both a retail gallery and exhibition space featuring the work of local/regional artists, craftspeople, authors, and musicians. The Arts Center offers educational... More info, map and hours Add to trip Appalachian Backroads The Commonwealths of Kentucky & Virginia share a rugged mountainous border of jagged peaks rising over 4,135 feet into the horizon. Pine and Black Mountains create this phenomenal land mass...

More info, map and hours Add to trip Appalachian Wilderness Adventure Program The Appalachian Wilderness Adventure Program (AWAP) is a challenging ropes course. The program is a part of the ministries located at Camp Bethel, which also operates youth summer camp. The... More info, map and hours Add to trip Appalachian Wonders Loop If you’re visiting Wise County and want to venture through the beautiful Jefferson National Forest, then the Appalachian Wonders Loop is a great place to start. Located within the Cumberland... More info, map and hours Add to trip Artistic Creations- Wood and More I am a woodcarver and enjoy carving just about any subject from walking sticks to big bears. At times I can be found with a chain saw in my hands. I also etch glass and paint. Call to arrange a visit... More info, map and hours Add to trip Artworks Plus Susan Patrice Cook creates fine art oil and acrylic paintings in a varitey of styles and subjects including landscapes, still lives, animals and people. She paints on canvas, slate, river rocks and...

More info, map and hours Add to trip Back of the Dragon Experience the unmatched beauty and motorcycle riding enjoyment provided by Virginia Route 16, the two lane ribbon over the three mountains between Tazewell and Marion, Virginia. 32 miles, 260... More info, map and hours Add to trip Back of the Dragon - The Ride Thirty two miles and over three hundred curves, the Back of the Dragon is the premier riding road in the nation! Ideal for sports cars or motorcycles, this road offers the most spectacular views you... More info, map and hours Add to trip Bailey Log Cabin Records show that the Bailey family first settled in what later became Tazewell County more than 230 years ago. Richard Peyton Bailey, Sr. received a warrant for land along the Bluestone River on... More info, map and hours Add to trip Bark Camp Recreation Area Bark Camp Recreation Area is situated on a 45 acre lake that is regularly stocked with rainbow trout. A three mile shoreline trail circles the lake, offering outstanding views. Highlights include an... More info, map and hours Add to trip Bee Bottom Picnic Area Thirty-one picnic units with table, grill and parking spur.

Sunny area with playground equipment and mowed spaces for... More info, map and hours Add to trip Big Stone Gap Farmers' Market There's nothing quite like buying local when it comes to fresh produce. Growers and farmers from around our community select their finest crops for you to enjoy and that helps create a sustainable... More info, map and hours Add to trip Big Stone Gap Loop Big Stone Gap isn’t just the name of a movie, it’s also a town with a number of interesting sites to explore. Take a short trip around Fraley Park or a more strenuous trek on Roaring Fork and... More info, map and hours Add to trip Birch Knob Tower Location: Dickenson County An elevation of 3,144 feet above sea level, you'll find the 100-yard walk from the parking lot and the 183 stair steps to reach the top to be well worth the... More info, map and hours Add to trip Birding and Wildlife Trails The Heart of Appalachia region boasts four of the state's official Birding and Wildlife Trail System loops including Appalachian Wonders, Big Stone Gap, Lonesome Pine, Mountain Heritage, St....

More info, map and hours Add to trip Bluefield VA Farmer's Market This seasonal Farmer's Market is held in downtown Bluefield, VA under the nice large shelters. The season begins in May and continues through October. You will find a nice variety of fresh fruits... More info, map and hours Add to trip Breaks Interstate Park The park, located on the Virginia/Kentucky border, is one of only two Interstate Parks in the nation. The park encompasses 4,500 acres of greenwood lands and mountain scenery, including the "Grand... More info, map and hours Add to trip Broadway Cinemas Broadway Cinemas is located in the Claypool Hill Mall near Richlands, VA with an Arcade Gallery next door. Real time information regarding movies, showtimes and available discounts can be found... More info, map and hours Add to trip Bullitt Park Located in Big Stone Gap in Southwest Virginia. Bullitt Park is the largest of nine community parks operated by the Big Stone Gap Department of Parks and Recreation. The park includes a football...

More info, map and hours Add to trip Burke's Garden Sometimes referred to as "God's Thumbprint" because of its view from the air, this mountain-ringed bowl is 10 miles in diameter and filled with some of the most fertile farmland in the state. The... More info, map and hours Add to trip Bush Mill The historic Bush Mill takes you back to a time when people lived simpler lives, when millwrights and craftsmen used Scott County’s abundant natural resources to build overshot, water-powered grist... More info, map and hours Add to trip Busted Still Brewery Craft brewery located on the historic Daniel Boone Wilderness Trail and the Crooked Road in the beautiful mountains of Southwest Virginia. Enjoy a pint of our famous Black Dog Stout or hoist a glass... More info, map and hours Add to trip Camp Bethel Camp Bethel is a Christian centered camping experience. Retreats and Facility Rental: Camp Bethel's facilities are available for rent year round. Amenities include 165 wooded acres, a small... More info, map and hours Add to trip Carmine's - Big Stone Gap Visitor Center Big Stone Gap is a little town with a big story!

The inspiration for the novel, Big Stone Gap, by Adriana Trigiani, shows that good old-fashioned southern hospitality and a warm sense of humor aren't... More info, map and hours Add to trip Carol Ingram Moore Artist creates fused glass jewelry, charms from recycled and found materials; and handmade paper infused with mountain poetry and plants. This studio is a trail site on the Lonesome Pine Artisan... More info, map and hours Add to trip Carter Family Fold The Carter fold is a rustic, 800+ seat music shed offering traditional music every Saturday night. Museum opens an hour prior to the show. The Carter Family was discovered in 1927 by Victor... More info, map and hours Add to trip Cave Springs Recreation Area Part of the Jefferson National Forest, Cave Springs offers a small lake for swimming that is fed by a spring that originates in the mountains above in a cave. A white sand beach is on the northern... More info, map and hours Add to trip Cavitt's Creek Park/Lake Witten Rec. Area The 54 acre lake is part of the 164 acre Cavitt's Creek Park Campground.

Quiet, breathtaking retreat for fun and relaxation, birding, hiking, camping, fishing and more. We offer: -Fully handicap... More info, map and hours Add to trip Central Drive-In Located on the old route 23 just outside of Norton or Appalachia depending upon which way you travel is a jewel to behold. Since opening in May 1952 the Central Drive In Theatre has always tried... More info, map and hours Add to trip Charles W. Harris Gallery The Charles Harris Gallery is a non-profit, self-supporting venue for visual arts located in Southwest Virginia. The gallery hosts monthly exhibitions of innovative, compelling artists from all... More info, map and hours Add to trip Charlie McConnell Studio Artist specializes in detailed pencil drawings including portraits, events and locations. Work also includes oil and watercolor paintings, clay sculptures and pottery. This studio is a trail site on... More info, map and hours Add to trip Chief Benge Scout Trail This 19.6 mile trail allows hikers to spend multiple days exploring high elevation forests full of rare plants and animals. You will be walking in the footsteps of a notorious Native American warrior...

More info, map and hours Add to trip Cinema City Stadium Theaters Cinema City features 9 all stadium seating auditoriums, luxurious high back rocking love seats with cupholder armrests. All digital projection, 7.1 digital surround sound, wall to wall screens,... More info, map and hours Add to trip Clinch River (Scott Co. Access) The Clinch River flows through some scenic gorges and has sweeping mountain views. Some sections contain Class I to III rapids. The river offers canoeing, kayaking and fishing for smallmouth and... More info, map and hours Add to trip Clinch River Adventures Come Get Drenched in the Clinch!!!! Clinch River Adventures is located in the Heart of Appalachia on the most bio diverse river in America, the Clinch River. We currently offer the following... More info, map and hours Add to trip Clinch River Farmer's Market Each Saturday morning and Wednesday afternoon, May-October, Market Square in downtown St. Paul bursts with locally grown fresh vegetables, fruits, meats, eggs, honey and more. Meet and mingle with...

More info, map and hours Add to trip Clinch River Farms Our farm is an agritourism site and features 70 acres with the Clinch River. We host groups for nature hikes, petting zoo (special arrangements), playground, river walk, camp site with picnic... More info, map and hours Add to trip Clinch Valley Millworks Inspired by the Foxfire books, Charlie Lawson has been making things with his hands since childhood. His shop, Clinch Valley Millworks, specializes in custom cabinetry, flooring and millwork in... More info, map and hours Add to trip Clinch Valley Outfitters Want to experience one of the most diverse ecosystems in the United States? The Clinch Valley is home to more than 400 rare plant and animal species. Referred to as "American's Crown Jewel," "One of... More info, map and hours Add to trip Clisso Photography Photographer uses vintage, as well as modern techniques and features many local scenes from around the country in his photographs. Prints are for sale at the studio and online. This studio is a trail...

More info, map and hours Add to trip Country Cabin II Appalachian Traditions Village Country Cabin II is the descendent of the original Country Cabin, focal point of Appalachian Traditions Village, a major venue on the Crooked Road, Virginia's heritage Music Trail which carries forth... More info, map and hours Add to trip Counts Cabin Trail The Counts Cabin trail, located in Dickenson County, is an 1.8 miles long trail in the Jefferson National... More info, map and hours Add to trip Cowan Mill This beautiful and authentic gristmill was built in 1890 and used by locals to grind their grain into mill. This rare treasure is considered one of the most photographed places in Lee County. It... More info, map and hours Add to trip Crab Orchard Museum & Pioneer Park Crab Orchard Museum preserves the cultural heritage of the Appalachian Region with exhibits on the 500 year-old Native American Village discovered on site, Pioneer Life, and military conflicts, such...

More info, map and hours Add to trip Creation Kingdom Zoo Creation Kingdom Zoo enables visitors to interact very closely with rarely seen animals such as the giraffe, camel, kangaroo, tiger, leopard, sloth, zebra, monkey, lemur, snakes, spiders, birds and... More info, map and hours Add to trip Crockett's Studio I am a painter in all media: watercolor, oils, and tempera. My paintings reflect the countryside of Virginia. E-mail to plan a... More info, map and hours Add to trip Crooked River Farm Crooked River is a 200 acre estate along the Holston River close to Seven Shoals in Hiltons, Virginia on the famous Crooked Road. The estate includes rolling hay fields, over a mile of river... More info, map and hours Add to trip Cumberland Gap National Historical Park The first great gateway to the west, Cumberland Gap is a mountain pass that was used by wildlife, Native Indian tribes, and later by settlers moving west. Daniel Boone was hired to blaze a trail... More info, map and hours Add to trip Daniel Boone Loop Trail Located in the westernmost part of Virginia, the Daniel Boone Loop contains sites that have a strong historical connection to the early frontier.

While this isn’t the exact path that Daniel Boone... More info, map and hours Add to trip Daniel Boone Wilderness Trail One of the nation's most historic routes, the trail was blazed by the legendary frontiersman in 1775 and has become the route for hundreds of thousands of settlers of the western frontier. The... More info, map and hours Add to trip Dante Coal Miner's Memorial Dante was once the headquarters of the Clinchfield Coal Corporation and home to thousands of coal miners and their families. The Coal Miner's Memorial honors those Dante men who worked in the mines... More info, map and hours Add to trip Dante Coal Mining and Railroad Museum The Dante Coal mining and Railroad Museum invites visitors to enjoy exhibits of coal and railroad memorabilia, donated by the residents and former residents of Dante and the surrounding community.... More info, map and hours Add to trip Derby Girl Derby Girl creates originial silver jewelry using rare and exotic gemstones. This studio is a trail site on the Lonesome Pine Artisan Trial in Wise County and is a member of Round the Mountian... More info, map and hours Add to trip Devil's Bathtub & Waterfall The Devil's Bathtub was recently named one of the Weather Channel's Hidden Gems.

The Devil's Fork Loop Trail takes you on a 7+ mile hike across stream beds, past Cascade Falls and to the Devils... More info, map and hours Add to trip Dickenson Bundy Log House Open in season Tuesday - Saturday 10am - 4pm; Sunday 12:30pm - 4pm. This log house was constructed from two separate log houses. One was built in 1769 and donated by the owner of the old Henry... More info, map and hours Add to trip Dickenson County Coal Miner's Memorial Welcome to the Dickenson County Coal Miner's Memorial. The memorial is a tribute to the men and women who have died in the coal mines. Located beside the post office in Clinchco, Virginia, the... More info, map and hours Add to trip Dickenson County Courthouse The large number of weddings in this courthouse made Clintwood the "wedding capital" of the area for a period of time. This historical building is of architectural interest to all. See courthouse... More info, map and hours Add to trip Dickenson County Veterans Memorial Dickenson County Military Veteran’s Memorials. Dickenson County has several memorials to honor the soldiers who have died in combat.

A Vietnam memorial, Korean War Memorial, as well as memorials... More info, map and hours Add to trip Dickenson County Visitor Center Let the Dickenson County Visitor Center guide your tour of the county. They'll help you plan a great week full of activities. Check out their website or give them a call to get your journey started... More info, map and hours Add to trip Donkeyville Stables Donkeyville Stables offers a tour of feathered friends like majestic tamed turkeys. You can also take a family-friendly cart ride pulled by the beautiful miniature horses or grab some farm fresh... More info, map and hours Add to trip Doug Branton Doug Branton is Associate and Founding Professor of the Arts and Crafts Department at Southwest Virginia Community College where he has taught for 34 years. A dedicated teacher and craftsman, Doug... More info, map and hours Add to trip Dr. Phipps Family Museum Dr. Phipps Family Museum portrays Dr. Rufus Phipps a prominent doctor in Dickenson County who operated the Dickenson County Hospital from the 1920's to his death in 1951. Dr. Phipps made house calls...

More info, map and hours Add to trip Dungannon Depot From 1910 to 1912 the Depot in Dungannon was in a boxcar, open at both ends and located on a side track. The present Depot was built by hand beginning in 1910 and completed in 1912. The Dungannon... More info, map and hours Add to trip Dungannon Virginia Dungannon is the gateway to the world-reknowned Clinch River and the hiking and scenery of High Knob. The Scott County Horse Park, on the outskirts of Dungannon, draws visitors to frequent shows and... More info, map and hours Add to trip Ellenbrook Ellenbrook, otherwise known as Number 4, is the historic home of William Alexander Stuart, founder of the Stuart Land & Cattle Company. Construction of the home was completed in... More info, map and hours Add to trip Emma Yates Memorial Library As much a museum as a library, this small town library was once the home and shop of Miss Emma Yates. Built in 1901, the building features the original iron front facade and cylinder glass windows....

More info, map and hours Add to trip Fireside Lanes Fireside Lanes has party rates available per hour per lane, or per person per game, and for tournaments, leaques-men's, women's, mixed, group events, birthday parties, etc. On Friday and Saturday... More info, map and hours Add to trip Flag Rock Recreation Area From the City of Norton, Flag Rock can be seen as a rock outcrop capped with an American Flag, thus the name "Flag Rock". The recreation site sits over 1,000 feet above the City's elevation of 2,350... More info, map and hours Add to trip Flatwoods Recreational Area - Coeburn Recreational area with picnic shelters equipped with electricity, water and grills surrounded by a beautiful mountain setting in Coeburn. To see fees and/or to reserve facilities please see the... More info, map and hours Add to trip Foggy Bottom Dulcimers I have been crafting dulcimers and various woodturnings for 15 years. Born and raised in Scott county my compassion for music has led me to explore the delicate sound of the dulcimer. Handmade lamps...

More info, map and hours Add to trip Gap Caverns in Cumberland Gap National Historical Park Explore a hidden world found underground- inside the mountains! It is a world of darkness, with fantastic dripstone formations and strange animals who have adapted to the cave environment. Gap... More info, map and hours Add to trip George Washington & Jefferson National Forest: Clinch Ranger District The Jefferson National Forest offers countless ways to experience nature. Numerous recreation areas offer picnicking, fishing, water activities, and wildlife watching opportunities. Visitors... More info, map and hours Add to trip Golden Palette Gallery/Studio Artist Lisa Boardwine creates original paintings, prints and custom matting and framing. Art supplies are also available at the gallery. Art classes are taught from the artist's studio and workshops... More info, map and hours Add to trip Graham Recreation Park Owned by the Town of Bluefield, VA, this 57 acre park has room for lots of activity. The land ranges from gently sloping to higher hills. It has an ampitheatre, 1 small and 3 large nice covered... More info, map and hours Add to trip Grundy Community Center If there's a big event in Grundy, it must be happening at the Community Center.

Not only the town's movie theater, it is also the hub of social life for the community. This facility hosts the annual... More info, map and hours Add to trip Guest River Gorge Trail Rails to trails project that follows an old railroad right of way paralleling the Guest River, a Virginia Scenic River. Trout fishing is permitted in the river, as well as kayacking and canoeing.... More info, map and hours Add to trip Hanging Rock Picnic Area This picnic area features 18 picnic units with table and grill or fireplace. A group shelter is also available. Hanging Rock Picnic area is located beside Little Stony Creek in a hardwood forest... More info, map and hours Add to trip Harry W. Meador Coal Museum Museum features exhibits and objects collected by the late Harry Meador Jr., an executive with a local coal company. Museum property once served as the study of John Fox Jr, author of "Trail of the... More info, map and hours Add to trip Haysi Floral Haysi Floral showcases mixed media works and fiber creations made by owner Sue Scanlon as well as local artisans. This is an artisan studio on the Rivers to Ridges Artisan Trail of Dickenson and...

More info, map and hours Add to trip Heart of Appalachia Bike Route and Scenic Drive The Heart of Appalachia Bike Route is one of many opportunities to experience our region, Virginia’s westernmost tip. It offers unparalleled scenic bicycle pedal pushin’ exploration between... More info, map and hours Add to trip Heart of Appalachia Visitor Center Are you a road warrior, river rat, or food fanatic looking for the best places to get your kicks in The Heart of Appalachia? Then stop by our lovely Visitor's Center! Located inside of a small... More info, map and hours Add to trip Hensley's Settlement Hensley's Settlement is part of Cumberland Gap National Historical Park, which lies in three states: Virginia, Kentucky and Tennessee. The preserved settlement is located atop Brush Mountain where... More info, map and hours Add to trip Hercel Stallard Studios I have been doing watercolor & teaching workshops for 20 years. My original paintings and giclee prints are available at the Keepsake Gallery and at my Studio. This studio is a trail site on the...

More info, map and hours Add to trip Hidden Valley Lake [gallery link="none" size="medium" ids="15902,15904"] Hidden Valley is located off of Route 58 between Hansonville and Abingdon. A hidden gem in the Heart of Appalachia, there are... More info, map and hours 1.3-mile trail leads to High Knob Lake at the recreation... More info, map and hours Add to trip High Knob Observation Tower A brand new observation tower with a long history opened in 2014 atop High Knob Recreation Area. At an elevation of 4,223 feet, the original tower built in the 30s burned down 40 years later. In... More info, map and hours Add to trip High Knob Observation Tower A brand new observation tower with a long history opened in 2014 atop High Knob Recreation Area. At an elevation of 4,223 feet, the original tower built in the 30s burned down 40 years later. In...

More info, map and hours Add to trip High Knob Recreation Area At an elevation of 3,800 feet, High Knob Recreation Area is the highest campground in the Clinch Ranger District of the Jefferson National Forest. The main attraction at the site is High Knob... More info, map and hours Add to trip Hike to the White Rocks Thomas Walker Civic Park or Chadwell Gap is where your hike to the White Rocks will begin. There are picnic tables available, clean restrooms, field for outdoor activities, and a beautiful... More info, map and hours Add to trip Hill Mandolins Hill Mandolins builds ultra high quality mandolins and guitars by hand in the mountains of Dickenson County. This studio is a site on the River's to Ridges Artisan Trail of Dickenson and Buchanan... More info, map and hours Add to trip Inspiring Images Walter Shroyer is Professor of Art and Chair, Division of Fine Arts at Bluefield College where he has taught for 17 years. A ceramic artist and printmaker, his inspirations come from the surrounding...

More info, map and hours Add to trip Interstate 101 Car Built in 1870 for the South Carolina & Georgia Railroad, this private car was used by the president of the railroad and is one of the oldest and finest examples of typical passenger car... More info, map and hours Add to trip J. S. Easterly Park This county park is landmarked by a crystal-clear waterfall. For a pleasant walk, the park offers hiking trails, a picnic shelter with grill, or try a leisurely afternoon of... More info, map and hours Add to trip JAG's Jackie Fiser designs and handcrafts "one of a kind" custom wreaths and floral arrangements for any season or decor.This Craft Venue is part of the River's to Ridges Artisan Trail in Dickenson and... More info, map and hours Add to trip Jessee's Mill The United States Department of the Interior, Park Service, has declared Jessee's Mill to be a national historic landmark and was previously designated a state historical landmark by the Commonwealth...

More info, map and hours Add to trip John Flannagan Dam and Reservoir Located in a rugged, wooded Cumberland Mountain setting, this V-shaped 1,145 acre reservoir stores waters of the Cranesnest and Pound Rivers. This is some of America's cleanest and clearest water... More info, map and hours Add to trip John Fox, Jr. Museum The museum was the home of John Fox, Jr., a famous mountain author of many novels and short stories. Most well known are "Trail of the Lonesome Pine" and "The Little Shepherd of Kingdom Come". "Trail... More info, map and hours Add to trip Jonesville Farmer's Market If you're ever in the beautiful Lee County, one thing you have to remember to do is take advantage of our fertile farm land and visit the local farmers market! The Town of Jonesville sponsors a local... More info, map and hours Add to trip June Tolliver House & Folkart Center Location adjacent to amphitheatre that stages the musical adaptation of John Fox Jr.'s novel, "Trail of the Lonesome Pine". At the turn of the century, the house was owned by the Duff family who also...

More info, map and hours Add to trip Kiwanis Park The Kiwanis Park in Grundy features picnic facilities, a walking track, a covered stage, playground equipment and a tennis... More info, map and hours Add to trip LOVEwork in Scott County Scott County uses "We're a Natural" brand in all our promotions. The idea for the LOVEWork plays on the theme of "We're a Natural" in the design. The "L" is a cowboy boot; the "O" an inner tube... More info, map and hours Add to trip Lake Keokee Recreation Area This 92 Acre lake, surrounded by a lovely wooded area, may be used for fishing or boating. The lake features a paved boat launching ramp, four picnic units with tables and grills, and a 3.7 mile... More info, map and hours Add to trip Lays Hardware Center for the Arts The Crooked Road comes to Coeburn every Friday night at the Historic Lays Hardware Building in downtown. Local groups entertain and provide music to "shake a leg" to on the dance floor. Informal jams...

More info, map and hours Add to trip Lee Theatre Originally opened in 1947, the Lee Theatre was a hub of entertainment for the county. Today the hub is back but now hosts live musical performances, plays, and still stays true to its roots with the... More info, map and hours Add to trip Leeman Field Park In addition to offering many activities for the whole family, Leeman Field in Pennington Gap is the trailhead for the Stone Mountain ATV Trail, part of Spearhead Trails. The Park also boasts a... More info, map and hours Add to trip Legion Park Formerly, the home of the American Legion Hall, and located on Rt. 619 in Norton, Legion Park was constructed in May of 1996. It features a picnic shelter and access to an interpretive trail with... More info, map and hours Add to trip Little Beaver Creek Roger Apple creates one of a kind art pieces using native materials such as wood, rocks and wood resins gleaned from the immediate area. He carves peach seeds, creates composite sculptural pieces,...

More info, map and hours Add to trip Little Stony National Recreation Trail Little Stony National Recreation Trail is located between Coeburn and Dungannon on a narrow guage railroad bed that was constructed in the early 1900s for logging. The 2.8 mile trail follows the... More info, map and hours Add to trip Little Stony National Recreation Trail Little Stony National Recreation Trail is located between Coeburn and Dungannon on a narrow gauge railroad bed that was constructed in the early 1900's for logging. The 2.8 mile trail follows the... More info, map and hours Add to trip Lonesome Pine Loop The Lonesome Pine Loop is a great choice for anyone wanting to visit the areas mentioned in John Fox Jr.’s 1908 novel, “Trail of the Lonesome Pine”. Many of the sites on this loop are located... More info, map and hours Add to trip Lonesome Pine Raceway ASA sanctioned Lonesome Pine Raceway is a .375 mile paved facility with 16 degree banked turns. LPR runs Late Model, Charger, Street Stock, Mod4, Pure4 and Legends divisions. The track also hosts...

More info, map and hours Long Hollow Log School Museum Log school built before 1858. Used as heritage education... More info, map and hours Add to trip Louis E. Henegar Miners Memorial Park Public park dedicated to local mining historian Louis Henegar and the numerous coal miners in the community. The outdoor learning experience features many examples of underground mining equipment... More info, map and hours Add to trip McClanahan Cemetery This historic cemetery may be found opposite Church of Christ on Rt. 83 North. Up on the hillside is the site of 3 Confederate Soldiers, related to the McClanahans by marriage. Hours: Daylight... More info, map and hours This public park recognizes the coal mining history of the... More info, map and hours Add to trip Mountain Heritage Loop Tazewell County is historically known for it’s deep connection to the coal industry, however, as you cross Walker Mountain the only thing you can focus on is Tazewell’s beautiful scenic views.... More info, map and hours Add to trip Mountain Heritage Museum - St. Paul See hundreds of artifacts from coal mining, logging, railroading, farming, the Civil War, and Native American and Appalachian natural history.

View dozens of pictures and prints about these subjects... More info, map and hours Add to trip Mountain Top Golf Course Nine-hole public golf course located on 30 acres of previously strip-mined land atop Compton Mountain. Features artificial greens and is the first course of its kind in the U.S. Located on Route... More info, map and hours Add to trip MountainRose Vineyards Grapevines & roses abound as you visit MountainRose Vineyards & enjoy the only Virginia wines made from grapes grown on land formerly mined for coal. Abundant in minerals, the soil gives our... More info, map and hours Add to trip Mud Slingin' ATV Rentals Our ATV Rentals are conveniently located in St. Paul VA and ready to get you trail bound. Mud Slingin' ATV Rentals is ready to rent you the four-wheeler or RZR to fit your needs. You can simply ride... More info, map and hours Add to trip Natural Tunnel State Park More than 850 feet long and as high as a 10-story building, Natural Tunnel was naturally carved through a limestone ridge over thousands of years. William Jennings Bryan called it the “Eighth...

More info, map and hours Add to trip North 40 Airsoft North 40 Airsoft runs a 10 acre airsoft field in Norton, VA. We play every other weekend. For event dates and times please see our facebook site under EVENTS. North 40 is also an airsoft... More info, map and hours Add to trip North Fork of Pound Reservoir Built in 1966 as authorized by the Flood Control Act of 1960, the 154 acre lake is used for fishing, boating, camping, picnicing, hiking, and municipal water supply. Picnic area overlooks reservoir... More info, map and hours Add to trip Norton City Park This park features a gazebo which is (available on first come-first serve basis). The park includes lighted tennis courts, basketball court, amphitheatre, as well as, playground equipment and picnic... More info, map and hours Add to trip Norton Friends & Farmers Market Located in the Heart of the Appalachian mountians along the Crooked Road Music Trail, area farmers and vendors provide locally grown produce, eggs , artisan cheeses, crafts, fresh baked goods, and...

More info, map and hours Add to trip Norton Recreation Department Norton Community Center and swimming pool are located on East Park Avenue. A variety of recreation programs and classes are offered as well as meeting rooms for gatherings and social... More info, map and hours Add to trip Old Russell County Courthouse Open in season Tuesday - Saturday 10am - 4pm; Sunday 12:30pm - 4pm. This former courthouse was built in 1799 by Henry Dickenson. A stone building, the structure replaced a log courthouse that was... More info, map and hours Add to trip Oxbow Lake Park Oxbow Lake Park is a city-owned park that includes a wetland and forest complex adjacent to the Clinch River. Because of its well maintained trail system, it is a popular destination for many of... More info, map and hours Add to trip Park Avenue Theater Opened March, 2014, Park Avenue Theater is a vintage movie theater showcasing Hollywood classics and modern hits alike. This 241 seat theater can also be rented for special events, concerts, or...

More info, map and hours Add to trip Pathfinders Outdoor Adventures, LLC Pathfinders is the premiere outdoor adventure outfitter in Southwestern Virginia offering sales and rental equipment, as well as training, for those who want to SEIZE THE... More info, map and hours Add to trip Phillips Creek Recreational Area Beach area and picnic shelters on Pound Reservoir, within walking distance to Cane Patch Campground, all part of the Jefferson National Forest. The Phillips Creek Loop Trail is a self-guided trail... More info, map and hours Add to trip Pinnacle Natural Area Preserve Towering cliffs, sheer limestone ledges, and waterfalls are but a few of the spectacular features of this preserve. Located near the confluence of the Clinch River and Big Cedar Creek, the topography... More info, map and hours Add to trip Plum Creek Winery Plum Creek Winery is the first and only winery in Tazewell County! Available souvenirs are ball caps and wine glasses. Wine sold by the glass, by the bottle or the case. They can be mixed or...

More info, map and hours Add to trip Pocahontas Exhibition Mine & Museum The Pocahontas Exhibition Coal Mine and Museum is a twenty minute drive from Bluefield Va over Rt. 102. It’s the oldest attraction of its kind, opening in 1938. The Exhibition Coal Mine site is... More info, map and hours Add to trip Pocahontas, Historic Coal Mining Town Pocahontas, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, was Virginia's first coalfield boom town. Today, Pocahontas preserves its coal mining heritage. Visitors can tour the world's first... More info, map and hours Add to trip Poplar Gap Park Buchanan County's flagship Recreation Park and Fairgrounds! The park offers a fairgrounds and horse ring, two baseball fields, a football field, three large picnic shelters with grills and a... More info, map and hours Add to trip Powell Mountain Overlook Powell Mountain Overlook is on the border between Lee and Scott counties and has great mountain views of both of our southwestern most counties as well as Kentucky and Tennessee. On Route 58 west of...

More info, map and hours Add to trip Powell Valley Overlook Powell Valley is a picturesque location, with an overlook accessible from the Northbound lanes of U.S. Route 23. A number of homes, farms, and a church are located in the valley below the... More info, map and hours Add to trip Ralph Stanley Museum and Traditional Mountain Music Center The Ralph Stanley Museum and Traditional Mountain Music Center features the life and music of the legendary music performer. Recognized as a pioneer in traditional Appalachian old-time music, Stanley... More info, map and hours Add to trip Redbud Capital of the World Honaker, Virginia has been designated as the "Redbud Capital of the World" by the Virginia General Assembly for their amazingly beautiful/plentiful redbud trees blooming in April annually. Route 80,... More info, map and hours Add to trip Richlands Coal Miners' Memorial The Coal Miners' Memorial is a testament to the heritage of the Town of Richlands. Dedicated in 2003,the memorial is a tribute to the men/women who sacrificed all they had to make a living. The...

More info, map and hours Add to trip Riverbound X-Stream At Riverbound X-Stream, we seek to establish and promote our water resources as quality flyfishing destinations for all those who would share our vision of unspoiled places, magnificent fish, and... More info, map and hours Add to trip Route 611 Cumberland Mountain Scenic Drive Rt. 611 Cumberland Mountain Scenic Drive was designated in 2009 as a Virginia Scenic Byway. Beginning in Clintwood, and winding through the Mountains, you will find several tourism attractions... More info, map and hours Add to trip Russell County Farmer's Market The Russell County Farmer's Market is held at the Russell County Government Offices in Lebanon every Wednesday from 11-3pm and Saturday mornings 8am-Noon. The market begins the first weekend in June... More info, map and hours Add to trip Russell Fork River A tributary of the Big Sandy River, the Russell Fork River is a scenic series of rapids, pools, and tortuous twists. World-class whitewater rafting opportunities are available on the river running...

More info, map and hours Add to trip Russell Fork Whitewater Adventures Outfitter for day trips on the Russell Fork River, which offers whitewater rapids of Class III-V+ Outfitter works with individual or family's needs and skills on river... More info, map and hours Add to trip Saint Paul Loop Trail Located near the heart of Saint Paul, the Saint Paul Loop offers six excellent sites for wildlife watching that visitors can enjoy. It includes everything from wetlands to montane to extensive... More info, map and hours Add to trip Sand Cave Tucked away in the Cumberland Gap National Park, hikers and horseback riders will discover a ceiling of gold, red and green, eroded rock forms and photo ops to cherish. Access to this gem of a... More info, map and hours Add to trip Sanders House Center The Sanders House Center includes a late 19th century home which was once the centerpiece of a 3,000 acre farm. Built in 1896, it has gorgeous solid oak woodwork, original wood floors, hand-painted... More info, map and hours The earliest portion of this courthouse was built in 1829; it was subsequently enlarged in the...

More info, map and hours Add to trip Scott County Park Park includes a 9-hole golf course, pro shop, tennis and picnic shelter. The most challenging and scenic golf course in the Mountain Empire. Ask about our Tuesday Senior Citizen Specials and our... More info, map and hours Add to trip Scott County Regional Horse Park Scott County Horse Park is home to a wide range of equestrian events, including shows for various breeds, horse pulls and plow-offs for the draft horse enthusiasts, and trail rides through nearby... More info, map and hours Add to trip Southwest Virginia Museum State Park Dedicated in 1948, the Southwest Virginia Museum in Big Stone Gap chronicles the exploration and development of the region. The museum houses a collection of items from the region. The collection was... More info, map and hours Add to trip Spearhead Trails Ride Virginia's newest and most exciting trail destination! Spearhead Trails ATV & OHV systems are multi-use trail systems primarily designed for ATVs and Side by Sides. Annual or Day Permits...

More info, map and hours Add to trip Spearhead Trails - Stone Mountain Trail System The Stone Mountain Trail system offers 30 miles of challenging intermediate to advanced level OHV trails with nine stunning overlook vistas never before offered to the public. Many of the overlooks... More info, map and hours Add to trip Stone Face Rock Folklore says that the face was carved by Cherokee Indians honoring their chief at the time. The name of the Chief is unknown. Others believe that the face has evolved over time by wind and rain.... More info, map and hours Add to trip Sugar Maple Bicycle Trail The Sugar Maple Trail is 1.8 miles of exhilarating mountain biking and hiking trails that are located at the Flag Rock Recreation Area in Norton, VA. Contact City of Norton Parks and Recreation... More info, map and hours Add to trip Sugar Run Baskets White oak is the basis for all my baskets. Like the early American pioneers, I go to the woods and carefully select a tree that is suitable for basket materials. All material for my baskets is... More info, map and hours Add to trip Tazewell County Visitor Center It has been said that mountains have a way of drawing you into a slower pace and heightens your senses.

Nestled in the majestic Appalachian mountains of southwestern Virginia, Tazewell County is home... More info, map and hours Add to trip Tazewell, Historic Town of Before the pioneers arrived, Tazewell County was a hunting ground for Native Americans. Tazewell County was created on December 20, 1799. The land was taken from portions of Wythe and... More info, map and hours Add to trip The Appalachia Cultural Arts Center The Appalachia Cultural Arts Council, Inc. founded The Appalachia Cultural Arts Center as a vehicle to foster commitment to the future, to economic development, and to the cultural pride of the Town... More info, map and hours Add to trip The Barn at Stoney Creek The Barn at Stoney Creek Farm is located in the beautiful Stoney Creek valley. We are at the foot of the High Knob mountain,close to the devils bathtub. We have 7500 square feet of barn space and 2... More info, map and hours Add to trip The Breakdown The Breakdown is a USARA regional qualifying, Adventure Race that lasts 24 hours at Breaks Interstate Park.

The race focuses on Trekking, Mountain Biking, and Flat-water Paddling and also offers a... More info, map and hours Add to trip The Great Channels Natural Area Preserve The Channels Natural Area Preserve, Hayters Gap VA from Mark Simcox on Vimeo. Within he boundary of the 4,836 acre Channels State Forest is a 721 acre parcel that has been... More info, map and hours Add to trip The Homeplace Mountain Farm & Museum The Homeplace is a collection of authentic structures and artifacts that have been assembled here from their original locations throughout Scott County. Each building has been carefully taken down... More info, map and hours Add to trip Trail of the Lonesome Pine Amphitheatre/June Tolliver Playhouse COME SEE THEATRE UNDER THE STARS! The Trail of the Lonesome Pine is an outdoor drama in operation yearly during the summer months of June, July, and August, with weekly performances on Thursdays,... More info, map and hours Add to trip Twin Creek Studio Formerly known as Inspiring Images, Twin Creek Studio is owned and operated by Walter Shroyer, Bluefield College Art & Design Department chairman, and Linda Weatherly. It's located in the...

More info, map and hours Add to trip Vincent's Vineyard Come to Vincent's Vineyard and appreciate the beautiful scenery while in the city limits of Lebanon. Experience country living in a relaxing atmosphere with some good old fashioned... More info, map and hours Add to trip Virginia Coal Heritage Trail 325 miles of scenic byways stretch through seven counties and the city of Norton, providing the traveler with glimpses of unique coal mining towns that were formed more than a century ago. This... More info, map and hours Add to trip WKW Woodworking William Kyle Wimmer makes mission style oak, cherry and walnut fine furniture as well as rustic pie safes, woooden ice cream boxes, shelves, cupboards, benches, stools, bowls and quirky birdhouses.... More info, map and hours Add to trip Wallen Ridge Trail - FT #329 Wallen Ridge and Lovelady Gap are part of the High Knob Landform. Wallen Ridge Trail, FT #329, is located in the Clinch Ranger District of the Jefferson National Forest. The trail is rated moderate...

More info, map and hours Add to trip White Rock Stables White Rocks Stables offers a 'fun for the whole family' experience with several locations recommended for riders ranging from novice to the most experienced of horseman. In the near future, we hope... More info, map and hours Add to trip Wilderness Road State Park Wilderness Road State Park was purchased in 1993. The park is about 310 acres that lie astride the Wilderness Road, a route carved by Daniel Boone in 1775. The route, which followed a buffalo trace,... More info, map and hours Add to trip William P. Harris Park Located minutes from the towns of Richlands and Honaker, William P. Harris Park is located on Route 80 at Council. This park has a large community center, a swimming pool, tennis and volleyball... More info, map and hours Add to trip Wise Lake Reservoir The Wise Reservoir provides the water supply for the Town of Wise. Although heavily used by anglers and picnickers, this is also a good venue for wildlife watching. Mixed woodlands surround the...

More info, map and hours Add to trip Woodspin Studio Lathe turned native Apalachian wood and exotic imported woods are shaped into bowls, vases, and small objects that are both classic and contemporary. This studio is a trail site on the Lonesome Pine... More info, map and hours Appalachian Mountains | Article about Appalachian Mountains by The Free Dictionary Appalachian Mountains | Article about Appalachian Mountains by The Free Dictionary Related to Appalachian Mountains: Appalachian Trail Appalachian Mountains (ăpəlā`chən, –chēən, –lăch`–), mountain system of E North America, extending in a broad belt c.1,600 mi (2,570 km) SW from the Gaspé Peninsula in Quebec prov., Canada, to the Gulf coastal plain in Alabama. Main sections in the system are the White Mts., Green Mts., Berkshire Hills, Catskill Mts., Allegheny Plateau, Black Mts., Great Smoky Mts., Blue Ridge, and Cumberland Plateau. To the E is the Piedmont (foothill) region.

The Appalachians, much-eroded remnants of a great mass formed by folding (see mountains mountain, high land mass projecting conspicuously above its surroundings and usually of limited width at its summit. Although isolated mountains are not unusual, mountains commonly form ranges, comprising either a single complex ridge or a series of related ridges. ..... Click the link for more information. ), consist largely of sedimentary rocks. Mt. Mitchell (6,684 ft/2,037 m) in North Carolina's Black Mts. is the highest peak. The Great Appalachian Valley or Great Valley is a chain of lowlands extending S and W from the Hudson Valley; its main segments are the Lehigh, Lebanon, Cumberland, and Shenandoah valleys; the Valley of Virginia; and the Valley of East Tennessee. Long a major north-south travel and settlement corridor, the Great Valley is one of the most fertile areas in the E United States. The Appalachians are rich in coal; other resources include iron, petroleum, and natural gas. The scenic ranges also abound in resorts and recreation areas, including Shenandoah and Great Smoky Mts. national parks.

The Appalachian Trail Appalachian Trail, officially Appalachian National Scenic Trail, hiking path, 2,144 mi (3,450 km) long, passing through 14 states, E United States. Conceived in 1921 by Benton MacKaye, forester and regional planner, and completed in 1937, the trail extends along the ..... Click the link for more information. winds 2,050 mi (3,299 km) along the ridges of the Appalachians between Mt. Katahdin, Maine, and Springer Mt., Georgia. Crossed by few passes, the Appalachians were a barrier to early westward expansion and played an important role in U.S. history; major east-west routes like the Cumberland Gap Cumberland Gap, natural passage through the Cumberland Mts., near the point where Virginia, Kentucky, and Tennessee meet. The gap was formed by the erosive action of a stream that once flowed there. It was explored and named in 1750 by Dr. ..... Click the link for more information. and Mohawk Trail Mohawk Trail.

1 Old road (c.100 mi/160 km long) in central New York state following the Mohawk River. It was the sole route through the Appalachians by which thousands of settlers emigrated from the Eastern seaboard to the Midwest. ..... Click the link for more information. followed river valleys or mountain notches. Appalachia is a name applied to parts of the region that were long characterized by marginal economy, isolation of its people from the U.S. mainstream, and distinctive folkways. Bibliography See E. Porter, Appalachian Wilderness (1970); H. M. Caudill, My Land is Dying (1971); M. Brooks, The Appalachians (1986); H. D. Shapiro, Appalachia on Our Mind (1986). Appalachian Mountains a mountain system in eastern North America, in the USA and Canada, forming a belt of ranges and ridges, valleys, plateaus and tableland, from 300 to 500 km in width and extending for 2,600 km southwest to northeast from 33° N lat. to 49° N lat.

The principal ranges are the Blue Ridge Mountains, White Mountains, Adirondacks, and Green Mountains. The Appalachian Plateau should also be noted. The dominating altitudes are 1,300–1,600 m (the highest peak is Mount Mitchell, 2,037 m). The Appalachians were uplifted on the site of a géosynclinal system which developed actively in the Paleozoic era on a late Precambrian folded foundation. The mountains were leveled during the Jurassic Paleocene period. Mountains reappeared in the Neocene-Anthropogenic period, when the territory of the modern Appalachians underwent a domed uplift, which resulted in the vigorous breakup of the surface and the formation of the modern terrain. The ranges consist of folded rocks and boulders and are divided by intermontane erosional valleys and basins. During the Anthropogenic period the northern part of the Appalachians underwent glaciation, while the southern part remained in a warm and humid climate. As a result forests of broad-leaved and evergreen trees were able to survive there and subsequently to spread over a large part of the Appalachians.

By structure and development the Appalachians are divided into the northern and southern regions (with the borderline approximately at the latitude of New York City). The northern Appalachians border on the Canadian Shield in the northwest, along a huge fault (the Logan line). They lack frontal sag and consist of a narrow belt of lower Paleozoic sedimentary deposits in the northwest and a wider belt of igneous, intrusional magmatites and metamor-phic rock in the southeast. The main tectonic periods for the northern Appalachians were the Taconic (at the end of the Ordovician) and the Acadian (at the end of the Devonian). During the Carboniferous-Permian period intermontane sag developed in the interior, filled mainly with continental deposits, first coal-bearing and then red in color. The southern Appalachians border on the midcontinental plate of the North American platform via the cis-Appalachian sag, comprising Upper Paleozoic deposits, with which important deposits of coal, oil, and gas are linked. The external, wider zone of the southern Appalachians (Valley and Ridge Province) consists of folds pointing northwest and accumulations of Lower and Middle Paleozoic rocks.

The interior zone (the Blue Ridge Mountains) is made up of metamorphic sedimentary igneous Lower and Middle Paleozoic and Upper Precambrian rocks and granites. The final uplift and folding of the southern Appalachians occurred toward the end of the Paleozoic era. In the late Triassic period the structure of the Appalachians was complicated by grabens that were filled with red continental deposits and basalt extrusions. The climate of the Appalachians is modified by the influence of the Atlantic Ocean and especially of the Gulf of Mexico. It is temperate in the north and subtropical in the south. The average temperature in January ranges from - 12°C in the north to 8°C in the south; in July the average ranges from 18°C to 26°C. Annual precipitation is from 1,000 to 1,300 mm. In the winter there are heavy frosts in the upper zone of the mountains, and much snow falls. The valleys are drier and warmer. The summers are humid and cloudy; rainfall is abundant, especially on the western slopes. The clearest and sunniest weather comes at the end of summer and beginning of autumn.

The rivers flow in deep valleys; the flow is abundant all year round, providing considerable reserves of hydro-power. Drainage altitude ranges from 30 cm in the north to 40 cm in the south. The largest rivers are the Connecticut, Hudson, Susquehanna, and Tennessee. They overflow their banks frequently because of melting snow in the spring and heavy rainfall in the summer. The major rivers of the northern Appalachians are navigable. As they fall from the eastern edge of the Piedmont, most of the rivers form rapids and waterfalls (the so-called fall line), which are used in part for power production. The Appalachians may be divided into two sections according to geomorphological characteristics. The northern Appalachians (as far as New York City) are a leveled-off plateau, 400 to 600 m high, with rocky massifs and ridges or ranges rising above it—the Adirondacks (1,628 m), the Green Mountains (1,338 m), the White Mountains (1,916 m), and others. The mountains have flattened tops, slanting slopes, and occasional dissected cirques.

The massifs are divided by tectonic valleys, which have been transformed into troughs (the largest are along the Hudson-Mohawk-Connecticut rivers and Lake Champlain). The depressed sections, especially along the Atlantic coast, are hilly and covered with glacial deposits. The soils are mountainous, podzolic, and turf-podzolic. The vegetation consists of coniferous and mixed forests of fir, silver fir, thuja, hemlock, maple, elm, beech, yellow birch, hickory, and basswood. The southern Appalachians have a more varied terrain. Their eastern foothills are made up of flat, poorly separated valleys of the Piedmont plateau (altitude from 40–80 m in the east and up to 400 m in the west). Rising sharply above the plateau are the Blue Ridge Mountains with steep slopes and undulating or domed peaks (altitude 2,037 m—Mount Mitchell). The western slope of the range falls steeply to a long depression, the so-called Great Valley.

The western foothills of the Appalachians form the Appalachian Plateau, criss-crossed by narrow and deep valleys and sloping gently from 1,500 m in the east down to 500 m in the west. The predominating soils are mountain dark brown forest soils; in the foothills, the soils are red and yellow earth. Up to an altitude of around 1,000 m there are broad-leafed forests consisting of numerous species of oak, maple, ash, and many endemic and relic species (tulip tree, magnolia, planer tree, white acacia, and others); above 1,000 m the forests are mixed and coniferous, characteristic for the northern Appalachians. Subalpine vegetation is widespread in the upper belt of the mountains (rhododendron, alders). The forests have been badly depleted. The most characteristic fauna of the Appalachians includes numerous endemic species: whitetail deer, Virginian opossum, and several species of bats; there are also tree porcupines, American black bears, lynxes, raccoon, skunks, otters, and others.

The Appalachians are a very important area for hiking, skiing, water sports, and hunting. The Shenandoah and Great Smoky Mountains national parks, the Blue Ridge Parkway, and other features are well known. REFERENCES

Question: Which Mountain Pass provides a route between Kentucky and Tennessee via the Appalachians?
Answer: CUMBERLAND GAP