Bedford is a Top Adventure Town
The readers of Blue Ridge Outdoors Magazine made it official. Bedford won the honor of Top Adventure Town in 2023 by winning its category of Small Town. People familiar with the town and county are not surprised by the victory and first time visitors will understand instantly why Bedford is so popular with outdoor lovers.
As the fifth largest county in Virginia, there is plenty of room to explore. On one side of the county is the Blue Ridge Parkway, the Peaks of Otter and a scenic stretch of the famed Appalachian Trail. On the other side of the county is Smith Mountain Lake — the largest lake contained entirely within Virginia — where people enjoy paddling, boating, jet-skiing and world-class fishing. All across the county are scenic drives, more trails, and exceptional parks with mountain biking trails, disc golf courses and a skate park.
Find big adventures in Destination Bedford.
This Top Adventure Towns of Virginia Itinerary connects the four winning communities and celebrates a Virginia sweep of the 2020 contest.View Itinerary >
48 hour Top Small Adventure Town itinerary, featured in Blue Ridge Outdoors April 2021 Issue Read more >
CHOOSE AN ADVENTURE:




Bike TrailsBOATING, SAILING, RENTALS & MARINASDISC GOLFGolf CoursesHIKING & WALKING TRAILSHORSEBACK RIDINGHUNTING & FISHINGPARKS & GARDENS

Make the Bedford Area Welcome Center your first stop. Our volunteer staff can offer advice on outdoor adventures and supply maps and brochures. They can also help with lodging and dining.
Bedford Area Welcome Center
816 Burks Hill Road (at the intersection of Route 460 and 122)
Bedford, VA 24523
Open seven days a week 9:00a.m. to 5:00p.m. (closed some holidays)
Destination Bedford offers big, bold and unforgettable experiences. You’ll see stunning beauty in the Blue Ridge Mountains and hear stories of bravery that will take your breath away at the National D-Day Memorial.


Bedford wins Top Adventure Town award again in 2023.
Destination Bedford is for Disc Golf Lovers!
Bedford, VA: Scenic Drives and Outdoor Fun in the Blue Ridge Mountains!
Where Ordinary Ends, Bedford Begins featured in Travel Taste + Tour.
Award-Winning Craft Beverages in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia
Go Hike Virginia explores Harkening Hill at the Peaks of Otter.
Blue Ridge Outdoors knows that Destination Bedford is extraordinary.
Go Hike Virginia Sharp Top hiking article