Facts & Figures

Location

Smyth County is located in southwestern Virginia. Interstate 81 runs through the county's central valley and intersects with Interstate 77 approximately 25 miles northeast of the Town of Marion, the seat of county government.
The City of Bristol is 45 miles southwest of the county; The City of Roanoke is 100 miles to the north; the state capital of Richmond, the state capital, is 275 miles northeast; and Washington, D.C. is 343 miles northeast of Smyth County.

History

Smyth County, named to honor General Alexander Smyth, was created by an act of Legislature on February 23, 1832. Read more on Smyth County's rich history.

Population

Based on the 2005 Census, the population of Smyth County is 32,300.The incorporated communities' populations are: Town of Marion 6,349, Town of Chilhowie 1,827, and Town of Saltville 2,204.

Climate

Because of its geographic location, the county experiences four distinct and often spectacularly beautiful seasons, with moderate temperatures prevailing.
The average temperature mid-summer is 71 degrees, with the average mid-winter temperature of 31. Annual precipitation averages 41 inches, with an average snowfall of 20 inches.

Top Attractions

Smyth County offers a rich environment of miscellaneous recreational activities such as swimming, golf, putt-putt, bowling, movies, and much more. The nationally known Appalachian Trail crosses southern Smyth County near Sugar Grove and Groseclose. Hungry Mother State Park is located near Marion with a wide variety of activities available. Mt. Rogers National Recreation Area, located in the southern portion of the county, is only 30-45 minutes away from I-81 of Exit 35 (Chilhowie) or Exit 45 (Marion) and is home to Virginia's two highest peaks.