Southwest Virginia: Counties, Geography & Economy

Southwest Virginia is a distinct cultural and physiographic region in the western part of the Commonwealth, encompassing the Appalachian Plateau and Ridge-and-Valley provinces. It generally includes these 9 counties:

1. Lee
2. Russell
3. Scott
4. Wise
5. Dickenson
6. Buchanan
7. Tazewell
8. Bland
9. Giles

Defining Features

• Terrain: Rugged mountains, deep hollows, coal seams, limestone caves.
• Economy: Historically coal mining (declining), natural gas, timber, cattle, burley tobacco. Emerging: outdoor tourism, broadband, healthcare.
• Landmarks: Clinch River (biodiversity hotspot), Breaks Interstate Park ("Grand Canyon of the South"), Appalachian Trail (crosses region), Mount Rogers (VA high point, 5,729 ft).
• Culture: Appalachian traditions—bluegrass, storytelling, quilting, self-reliance; strong community ties.

The region faces economic transition but retains a fierce identity rooted in the mountains.