Explore

Photo of downtown Norton

Welcome to Norton, the smallest incorporated city in the Commonwealth of Virginia! Centrally located at the intersection of two main highways - U.S. 23 and U.S. Route 58 Alternate - and near the crossroads of three states, we offer an abundance of natural, cultural, and historic landmarks. There are ample opportunities to dine, shop, and stay awhile in our charming mountain community nestled beneath High Knob, the highest point in the Cumberland Mountains. We invite you to Get Outside in Norton! See the links below to help plan your visit. 

Photo of mountain bikers on Flag Rock Area Trails

We’ve got all your Outdoor Adventures covered! The city's Flag Rock Recreation Area and its close proximity to the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests' Clinch Ranger District mean there are ample opportunities to mountain bike, hike, trail run, fish, boulder/rock climb, paddle, and more.

TRIP GUIDES & EVENTS CALENDAR

2023 Events Calendar

Check out the below 2023 Norton Events Calendar for up-to-date information on upcoming activities and events in the City of Norton.  

Photo of 2023 Norton Events Calendar

High Knob Adventure Guide

View and download the High Knob Adventure Guide by clicking the below image. The guide offers trip suggestions, information about sites, events, and communities in the High Knob Region, and other visitor resources.

Photo of High Knob Adventure Guide cover

Getting Here: Driving Directions to Norton, Va.

  • If traveling from Abingdon, Va.: From Interstate 81, take Exit 17 - Abingdon/South Holston Dam. If traveling south on Interstate 81, turn right into Abingdon. Those traveling north should turn left. Go to the second traffic light (0.7 miles). This is the main street through Abingdon. Turn left onto U.S. 11 South/U.S. 58 A West. Go to the second traffic light. Turn right onto U.S. 58 A West. Proceed to the stop sign at the intersection of U.S. 19 North/U.S. 58 A West (1 mile). Turn right. Proceed 12.2 miles north to the intersection of where U.S. 58 A and U.S. 19 split. Turn left and travel 30 miles to Norton. You will bypass the towns of St. Paul and Coeburn.
  • If traveling from Kingsport, Tenn.: If traveling on Interstate 181, take the U.S. 23 North exit (Gate City). Follow U.S. 23 North for approximately 45.6 miles, past the Big Stone Gap exits, to Norton. If traveling north on Interstate 26, follow it to the end of Interstate 26 at which time the highway becomes U.S. 23 North. Follow U.S. 23 North for approximately 45.6 miles, past the Big Stone Gap exits, to Norton.
  • If traveling from Eastern Kentucky: From the north (Jenkins), take Route 23 South, bypassing Pound and Wise, traveling approximately 25 miles from the Kentucky/Virginia state line.

Photo of Get Outside in Norton logo

Photo of High Knob Region logo