Big Walker Lookout facts for kids
The Big Walker Lookout is a tall observation tower, about 100 feet high. It sits on top of Big Walker Mountain in Bland County, Virginia. This area is known as the Blue Ridge Highlands Region.
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Where is Big Walker Lookout?
You can reach the tower from the Big Walker General Store. It's located right off US Route 52, about 12 miles from the town of Wytheville, Virginia.
The first store building burned down in 2003. A new store was then built right next to where the old one stood.
The Swinging Bridge
Long ago, visitors used to cross a cool swinging bridge to get to the tower. This bridge connected to the back of the old general store. Even though the store burned, the swinging bridge was not damaged. It is still there today! You can walk across it to the spot where the original stairs once met the bridge.
Big Walker Lookout often has special events. On weekends, you might see people showing off traditional arts and crafts. The lookout tower is open for everyone to visit. You just need to pay a small fee to go up.
Amazing Views from the Top
The Big Walker Lookout is located at a high spot, about 3,405 feet above sea level. From the very top of the tower, you can see incredible mountain peaks. On a clear day, you can even spot mountains in five different states! It's a truly breathtaking view.
A Look Back in Time: History of the Tower
The Big Walker Lookout tower was first built way back in 1947. The Kime family has been taking care of it ever since.
A Brave Warning During the Civil War
This area is also famous for a brave woman named Molly Tynes. During the Civil War, she used a mountain path near the tower. Molly rode to the town of Wytheville to warn people about upcoming attacks.
On July 18, 1863, a group of Union soldiers marched towards Wytheville. They wanted to destroy the Virginia and Tennessee Railroad tracks and bridges. They also hoped to damage important telegraph lines. Nearby salt and lead mines were also targets.
Thanks to Molly Tynes' warning, the town was more prepared. The Union soldiers did not fully succeed in their mission. After some fighting, the Union leader, Colonel John Toland, was killed. The railroad tracks were damaged but quickly fixed. The raid did not stop the railroad for long.
Wildlife at Big Walker Lookout
Big Walker Lookout Tower is a special spot on the Virginia Birding and Wildlife Trail. This trail helps people find great places to see animals.
Birds You Might See
Many different birds have been spotted at Big Walker Lookout. Keep an eye out for:
- Wild turkeys
- Black vultures
- Majestic bald eagles and golden eagles
- Small, quick American kestrels
- Fast Peregrine falcons
- Different kinds of hawks, like sharp-shinned, Cooper's hawks, broad-winged, and red-tailed hawks
- Official Website: http://www.scenicbeauty-va.com
