Giles County, Virginia
Giles County lies in southwestern Virginia and is a haven for natural beauty and outdoor adventure. The ancient New River winds through the rugged mountains, creating some of the county’s most scenic landscapes.
High in the mountains, Mountain Lake is a unique natural freshwater lake known for its unusual cycle of rising and receding water levels. Much of the surrounding area is covered by Jefferson National Forest, where hiking trails lead through forests and across breathtaking mountain terrain.
Pearisburg serves as the county seat and offers impressive views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. Outdoor recreation is a major part of life in Giles County, with fishing, kayaking, hiking, and rock climbing attracting both locals and visitors.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| County Name | Giles County |
| County Seat | Pearisburg |
| Population | Approximately 16,000 |
| Cities, Towns, and Communities | Pearisburg, Narrows, Pembroke, Glen Lyn, Newport |
| Interstates and Highways | US-460, VA-42, VA-61 |
| FIPS Code | 51-071 |
| Total Area (Land and Water) | 360 sq mi (Land: 356 sq mi; Water: 4 sq mi) |
| Adjacent Counties (and Direction) | Summers County, West Virginia (North), Monroe County, West Virginia (North), Craig County (East), Montgomery County (Southeast), Pulaski County (South), Bland County (West), Mercer County, West Virginia (Northwest) |
| Time Zone | Eastern Time Zone (ET) |
| State | Virginia |
| Coordinates | 37.3297° N, 80.6955° W |
| Etymology | Named after William Branch Giles, a U.S. Senator from Virginia |
| Major Landmarks | Cascade Falls, Mountain Lake Biological Station, New River, Jefferson National Forest |