Hometowns of the Clinch

The Clinch is home to a number of increasingly vibrant communities. The region has a rich heritage and this most recent transformation testifies again to the bounty of the region.  Get to know some of the good people along Virginia’s Hidden River.

A moving river experience flows throughout the Town of St. Paul. This ecological and commercial hub is at the geographic center of the Clinch in Virginia and offers hiking trails, summertime tube floats, kayaking, off-road recreation, and a riverside disc golf course. But it’s okay to sit still too; perhaps after a hike on Bluebell Island or atop Sugar Hill, while bird watching at Wetlands Estonoa, or over a cup of coffee in a local restaurant. Market Square is abuzz on Wednesday and Saturday with the Farmers’ Market in season.  There are lots to love in St. Paul where it's always a great day!

Other Hometowns on the Clinch

Tazewell

At the headwaters of the Clinch, the Town of Tazewell’s historic architecture and mountain heritage complement a relaxing outdoor experience. Boat, paddle or fish at either Cavitt’s Creek or Lincolnshire Park and visit Crab Orchard Museum’s Pioneer Park to experience stories of the region’s early settlement.

Cedar Bluff

A restored gristmill nestled among the hills where Indian Creek meets the Clinch is just one of the great photo
opportunities in Cedar Bluff. For more, hike to the top of Overlook Trail, study the unique geology of The Cut, or
quietly watch for wildlife in a riverside park. Get to know the Clinch even better; ask a local resident for directions to the swimming hole.

Cleveland

Explore a broad and gentle section of the Clinch in this Russell County community. Once the center for the movement of livestock, lumber, and coal, Cleveland is now a quiet hamlet surrounded by natural treasures. Sit on a mossy rock by a waterfall. Learn about the globally rare plant species protected nearby. Listen to traditional music at a riverside park. Cleveland is a perfect place to launch or end a day of great paddling.

Honaker

Lewis Creek passes through Honaker prior to meeting up with the Clinch. Cyclists on the TransAmerica Trail know the Redbud Capital of the World for its easy hospitality, in stark contrast to the physical punishment of Big A Mountain. And for drivers, it’s hard to pass this compact community without wanting to stop, take a walk through the downtown listed on the VA Register of Historic Places, and enjoy a home-style meal at one of several restaurants.

Richlands

Even the pronunciation of the name of this Tazewell County economic hub stresses the importance of the natural resources, rich-LANDS, indeed! From coal boom town to cultural center along the Clinch, Richlands offers a unique look at late 19th century architecture and several dining opportunities. Stretch your legs along the Town of Richlands’ Williams Field greenway path and let the young explorers loose at the Critterville Playground.

Dungannon

It’s easy to see why land-seeking Scots-Irish and English immigrants settled on this broad flat stretch along the Clinch in Scott County. For outdoor lovers, it’s a good choice for a day visit. Launch or take out here on your floating adventure. Enjoy the community and showmanship at Scott County Horse Park. Or, travel the Dungannon and Clinch River Driving Tour and learn more about the area.