Wytheville, Virginia: Big Walker Lookout - Climb the Tower
100-foot-high observation tower at the summit of Big Walker Mountain. Open to people willing to make the climb since 1947.
- Address:
- 8711 Stony Fork Rd, Wytheville, VA
- Directions:
- About 12 miles from Wytheville, at the intersection of Hwy 621 and US Hwy 52.
- Hours:
- Daily 10-5 (Call to verify) Local health policies may affect hours and access.
- Phone:
- 276-663-4016
- Admission:
- Adults $6, child $4
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Big Walker Lookout
Big Walker Lookout is Virginia's oldest private scenic attraction, celebrating 70 years in business (It opened in 1947). It has a 100-foot-high observation tower with a 360 degree view of the mountains and valleys of western Virginia. On weekends, May through October, the Lookout store has free bluegrass and country music concerts, live craft demonstrations, and local authors' book signings.
[Ron Kime, 01/31/2017]Big Walker Lookout - Climb the Tower
We visited July 13, 2015 and the swinging bridge is back. We walked across it and got a few pictures. Tower was fun to climb, too. The little store at the base of the tower has fun souvenirs and excellent homemade ice cream. Try the butter pecan ice cream -- it's excellent.
[Morgan, 07/15/2015]Big Walker Lookout
You cannot cross the swinging bridge any more. It has a big gap in it. Walk across the highway to the wooden observation platform. The view is truly remarkable.
[Carolyn, 08/21/2013]Big Walker Lookout
Big Walker Lookout is a 100 foot observation tower at the top of Big Walker Mountain. Adjoining the tower is a swinging bridge. Until recently, visitors had to cross the bridge in order to access the tower. The old gift shop burnt down and a new one recently opened (BW Country Store). Due to the slight change in location, you can skip the bridge if it makes you nervous (as if the tower wouldn't!).
Ages ago there was also a snake pit, and a chair lift that took you to a higher viewer point. Today, these two attractions are gone, but there is a short hiking trail. Just down the road is an old west style town named Virginia City.
[Mark Turner, 09/16/2006]Nearby Offbeat Places
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The swinging bridge was put out of commission due to fear of lawsuits. But the observation tower still provides a thrill -- and a view.