Big Walker Lookout
- Admission
- $8.00 for adults, $5.00 for children ages 3-11, free for children under 3
- Hours
- Daily 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM (hours vary seasonally, closed on major holidays)
- Duration
- 45-90 minutes
- Parking
- Free on-site parking lot with spaces for RVs and buses
- Access
- The Country Store is wheelchair accessible, but the lookout tower is only accessible via stairs
Perched atop Big Walker Mountain, this historic 100-foot lookout tower offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Appalachian Mountains. Climb to the top to see five states on a clear day, then browse the Country Store filled with local crafts. It has been a beloved roadside stop since 1947.
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Perched atop Big Walker Mountain at an elevation of 3,400 feet, Big Walker Lookout is Virginia’s oldest privately owned scenic attraction. Opened in 1947, this classic roadside destination features a 100-foot-tall steel observation tower that provides a panoramic view of the surrounding Appalachian Highlands.
On a clear day, visitors who climb the tower's stairs are rewarded with a breathtaking, unobstructed view spanning five different states. At the base of the tower, the Big Walker Country Store offers a nostalgic stop featuring locally made crafts, regional jams, and hand-dipped ice cream.
Still operated by the same family that founded it, the lookout serves as a preservation of classic Americana and Appalachian culture. Visitors can often catch live heritage music performances on the porch during summer weekends, making it a lively community hub.
Ratings
attractionVisitor Tips
- ◆ Check the weather forecast before visiting, as fog and low clouds can significantly limit the panoramic views from the top.
- ◆ Allow time to explore the country store, which features goods from over 250 local artisans and crafters.
- ◆ Visit during the autumn months to witness the spectacular changing colors of the Jefferson National Forest.
- ◆ Keep an eye out for weekend events, which frequently feature local musicians playing traditional old-time and bluegrass music.
Heads Up
- ◆ The climb to the top of the 100-foot tower involves steep, open-air metal stairs that may be challenging for those with mobility issues or a fear of heights.
- ◆ High winds and cooler temperatures are common at the top of the tower, so bringing a light jacket is recommended even in summer.
- ◆ The tower is not wheelchair accessible, though the country store at the base is.
Common questions
Are dogs allowed at Big Walker Lookout?
Leashed dogs are permitted on the grounds and inside the Country Store, but they are not allowed to climb the observation tower.
How many steps do you have to climb to get to the top of Big Walker Lookout?
There are 120 metal steps to climb to reach the observation deck at the top of the 100-foot tower.
Can you access Big Walker Lookout without hiking?
Yes, the lookout tower and country store are located directly off US Route 52 with a parking lot at the entrance, requiring no hiking to reach the attraction.