Covington, Virginia

ALLEGHANY HIGHLANDS

Covington, Virginia

A mountain city with a historic downtown, a river nearby, and easy access to some of the Alleghany Highlands’ best-known natural and heritage stops.

Region
Southwest Virginia

Type
Independent city

Setting
Alleghany Highlands

Known for
Historic downtown, Falling Spring Falls, and Humpback Bridge

Covington is a small independent city in Virginia’s Alleghany Highlands, set among the mountains of the state’s western edge. Its appeal is a mix of walkable downtown streets, river scenery, and nearby stops that reward a slower, scenic day out. The regional tourism organization highlights Covington’s historic buildings, shops, galleries, and restaurants alongside outdoor recreation in the surrounding highlands.

Start in the city center, then make time for Falling Spring Falls north of town or Humpback Bridge west of downtown. Both are well-known regional landmarks, and the falls overlook is a roadside stop; stay behind the fence and observe posted restrictions. For a broader itinerary, Covington also makes a convenient base for exploring the Alleghany Highlands and neighboring Clifton Forge, Virginia.

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Why visit Covington?

Covington offers a compact downtown paired with the mountain landscapes and outdoor activities that define the Alleghany Highlands. Visitors can browse locally owned businesses and historic streets, then drive a short distance for a waterfall viewpoint, a covered-bridge landmark, or a walk beside the Jackson River. The regional visitor guide describes Covington and Clifton Forge as walkable downtowns with historic architecture, shops, galleries, and places to eat.

What to see and do

Falling Spring Falls

North of Covington, this waterfall is viewed from a roadside overlook. Enjoy the view from the designated area; the ground beyond the fence is posted, and descending to the falls is dangerous and prohibited. Check current conditions before setting out.

Humpback Bridge

This arched covered bridge over Dunlap Creek is a celebrated local landmark and part of a wayside park west of downtown. It was built in 1857 and served road traffic until 1929; visit to appreciate its construction and the nearby meeting of old and modern transportation routes.

Covington Historic District

Walk the original downtown grid to see commercial buildings and civic architecture shaped largely by the city’s late-19th- and early-20th-century growth. The district includes the courthouse and blocks of Main Street-style buildings; some historic properties are private, so admire them from public streets.

Downtown shops and dining

Give yourself time to browse locally owned shops and galleries and find a meal in the city center. The range of businesses and opening times can change, so check directly with individual places before planning around a particular stop.

Jackson River Scenic Trail

Use a nearby trailhead to explore the river corridor on foot or by bicycle. The regional tourism organization describes the trail as a route following the Jackson River from the Covington area toward Bath County; confirm trail access and current conditions before you go.

History and character

Covington’s town plan was laid out along the Jackson River in 1818, and the city grew as a local commercial and administrative center. Its historic district reflects later waves of development: the Virginia Department of Historic Resources notes that much of its surviving built fabric dates from 1890 to 1940, when railroad consolidation and industrial growth contributed to urban expansion.

The city is named for General Leonard Covington, a War of 1812 officer, according to the city’s history account. Covington became an independent city in 1952. Its present-day character combines a historic commercial core with the regional landscape and outdoor recreation that draw visitors to the Alleghany Highlands.

Planning a visit

Covington is easiest to explore by car, particularly if you plan to combine downtown with Falls Spring Falls, Humpback Bridge, or other highlands stops. The regional visitor organization publishes itineraries and visitor information; use its current guide to check what is open and happening during your visit.

Allow time to stroll downtown rather than treating the city only as a drive-through stop. For outdoor activities, confirm trail access, river conditions, and any seasonal services with the relevant operator or public agency. At Falling Spring Falls, remain in the designated viewing area and follow all posted signs.

Nearby places and attractions

• Clifton Forge, Virginia — a neighboring highlands town with its own historic downtown and cultural attractions.
• Bath County, Virginia — explore more of the mountain region north of Covington.
• Douthat State Park — a nearby destination for trails and outdoor recreation.
• Falling Spring Falls — a well-known waterfall viewpoint just north of the city.
• Things to do in the Alleghany Highlands — use the regional guide to build a wider trip.

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References

External links

• City of Covington
• Alleghany Highlands Chamber of Commerce & Tourism
• Virginia Department of Historic Resources: Covington Historic District