The Cove, Tazewell County

Description

Elevation: 2413 ft.

The Cove is a sparsely populated farming community situated in Tazewell County and is one of the last remaining valleys expressly devoted to agriculture. The land is used primarily to graze cattle, sheep and horses, with support crops of alfalfa, corn and other grains. The movie “Lassie, Best Friends are Forever” was filmed here in 1994. Grassland and open field birds are abundant with large flocks of red-winged blackbird, eastern meadowlark, eastern bluebird, barn swallow and American goldfinch in residence. Look for mockingbird and turkey vulture. American kestrel, bald eagle, blue heron, and wild turkey make their home here. The open grasslands are also excellent habitat for grasshopper sparrow during the breeding season and dickcissel in summer. The scenic drive through the area offers wildlife viewing opportunities year-round. Black bear, white-tailed deer, and red fox are among the valley’s wildlife. In winter, look for patrolling northern harrier and short-eared owl.

Notes:

• Cell service is very unreliable in this area. Please have alternate means of navigating.

Directions

From Marion, head south on 1-81, take exit 35 and turn right onto VA-107 N/Whitetop Rd, turn right onto CR-773/CR-610/Valley Rd, turn left onto CR-723/Possum Hollow Rd, slight left to continue on CR-633/Possum Hollow Rd, turn right onto VA-91 N/Saltville Hwy, in approximately 2.3 miles, turn left to stay on VA-91 N/Veterans Rd, in approximately 8 miles, sharp left to stay on VA-91 N/Clinch Mountain Rd, turn left onto SR-608/Cove Rd.