Bedford County, Virginia is located in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains and is home to a population of over 78,000 people. According to wholevehicles.com, the county was established in 1753 and is known for its rich history, natural beauty, and cultural attractions.
The county seat of Bedford is the city of Bedford which was founded in 1782 and is home to over 6,000 people. Other cities in the county include Forest, Moneta, Goode, Big Island and Huddleston. The county also features several small towns including Thaxton, Stewartsville, Montvale and more.
Bedford County has a long history dating back to colonial times when it was part of Virginia’s frontier region. During the Revolutionary War it was a major supply center for both sides as well as being the site of several battles. In 1839 the Virginia Central Railroad began operating through the county which helped spur economic growth throughout the area.
Today, Bedford County offers visitors plenty to do and see including historical sites such as Poplar Forest (Thomas Jefferson’s retreat home), Smith Mountain Lake State Park (the second largest lake in Virginia), Peaks of Otter Winery (one of Virginia’s oldest wineries), Booker T Washington National Monument (the birthplace of Booker T Washington) as well as many outdoor activities like hiking trails, fishing spots and golf courses.
Famous people from Bedford County include President George Washington who visited often during his lifetime as well as Civil War General Jubal Early who was born there in 1816. Other notable residents include television personality Pat Robertson who grew up in Forest and former NFL quarterback Michael Vick who attended high school at Warwick High School in Newport News which is just outside of Bedford County.
Climate and weather in Bedford County, Virginia
According to mcat-test-centers.com, Bedford County, Virginia has a humid subtropical climate with warm summers and mild winters. The average temperature in the summer months (June through August) is around 81°F (27°C), while the average temperature in winter months (December through February) is around 41°F (5°C). The county receives an average of 43 inches of precipitation annually, most of which falls between April and September. Summers tend to be hot and humid with occasional thunderstorms, while winters tend to be mild and wet. Snowfall is rare but can occur during winter months. Spring is generally mild with temperatures ranging from the mid-50s to mid-70s Fahrenheit (10-24°C). Fall temperatures usually range from the low 40s to mid-70s Fahrenheit (4-24°C).
The county has an abundance of natural beauty, making it a popular destination for outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, fishing, and hunting. The Blue Ridge Mountains are located nearby and offer scenic views throughout the year. There are many parks and trails located throughout Bedford County providing opportunities for exploration. Temperatures in the area range from hot in the summer to cold in the winter so it’s important to prepare accordingly for any outdoor activities you plan on doing.
Transportation in Bedford County, Virginia
Bedford County, Virginia is served by a variety of transportation options. The closest major airport is Lynchburg Regional Airport, located approximately 45 minutes away. There are also several smaller airports in the area which offer regional flights. For those traveling by car, Bedford County has easy access to Interstates 81 and 77, as well as US Route 460. The county has an extensive public bus system which provides service throughout the county and to surrounding areas. This service includes regular routes as well as special services for seniors and people with disabilities. Amtrak also serves the county with a station in Lynchburg offering connections to points south and east.
For those looking to explore the area on two wheels, Bedford County is home to numerous bike trails and paths that provide scenic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and other local attractions. There are also several taxi services available throughout the county that can provide transportation when needed. Additionally, there are several car rental companies located in nearby towns that offer competitive prices for visitors who plan on staying for an extended period of time. No matter how you choose to get around Bedford County, there are plenty of options for locals and tourists alike.
Cities and towns in Bedford County, Virginia
According to COUNTRYAAH.COM, Bedford County, Virginia is home to a variety of cities and towns. The county seat is Bedford, which is the largest city in the county and the hub for government and business. Bedford has a population of over 6,000 people and offers a variety of services including shopping, dining, and entertainment. Other notable cities in the county include Forest, Big Island, Moneta, and Thaxton.
Forest is an unincorporated community located in the center of Bedford County with a population of just over 1,000 people. It is home to several parks as well as an annual summer music festival that draws visitors from all over the region. Big Island is a small town situated on the banks of the James River with a population of around 500 people. It offers access to nearby lakes and rivers for fishing as well as plenty of hiking trails throughout the area.
Moneta is located on Smith Mountain Lake with a population just under 3,000 people. The town has become popular for its water activities such as fishing and boating as well as its many restaurants and shops along its Main Street district. Thaxton is another small town located in the northern part of Bedford County with a population just over 400 people. It offers plenty of outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, biking trails, and horseback riding trails throughout its scenic landscape.
The cities and towns in Bedford County offer something for everyone from outdoor enthusiasts to those looking for some local culture or history to explore. With its abundance of natural beauty combined with its friendly communities, it’s no wonder why so many people choose to call this area home.