Giles County

Giles County is an administrative division in Virginia's New River Valley, stretching across mountainous terrain with natural waterways running through it. The region includes five incorporated towns and various rural settlements distributed throughout this rolling landscape.

The county was established in 1806 when territories were separated from four neighboring counties and named after William Branch Giles. This creation reflected efforts to organize the growing settlement of Virginia's mountain regions.

The five incorporated towns preserve traditional handcraft techniques passed down through generations that shape local identity. Visitors can observe these practices in how people use and maintain their communities.

The region is best explored by car, as towns are spread across mountainous terrain and roads wind through valleys and over ridges. Plan for longer travel times between destinations, especially when venturing off main routes.

Mountain Lake sits within the county and is one of only two natural freshwater lakes in the entire state of Virginia. This rare body of water stands out as a notable geological feature amid the otherwise river-dominated landscape.

Location: Virginia

Inception: 1806

Capital city: Pearisburg

Shares border with: Summers County, Monroe County, Mercer County, Craig County, Montgomery County, Pulaski County, Bland County

Website: http://gilescounty.org

GPS coordinates: 37.32000,-80.70000

Latest update: December 20, 2025 15:58