by Abram Mcconnell

Created on: September 23, 2008

The Commonwealth of Virginia is among the most diverse states for lifestyles. The 10th state to join the union is roughly 200 miles wide and 400 miles long, but once you've seen most if it, if feels much larger. From the excitement of northern Virginia and the D.C. area to the serene scenes of the Appalachian Mountains to the busy streets near the shore; there truly is a hometown waiting to happen for you in this great state.

Maybe its bias, but my hometown of Damascus, Virginia may be one of the best places to live in the nation; not to mention in the state. The town boasts a population of just over 1,000 and seems to become progressively more modern while keeping a solid grip on the classic "small town" feel. Nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains with panoramic views in every direction, this town offers a relaxed setting to spend a lifetime and raise a family. It's nearly impossible to spend even a few minutes in town without running into a good friend, but even strangers feel like friends in this charming town. In fact, the town's nickname is "The Friendliest Town on the Trail."

Trail Town, USA is a Mecca for trail seekers because of the numerous and diverse trails found there. The Appalachian Trail, Daniel Boone Trail, Creeper Trail, Iron Mountain Trail, Crooked Road Musical Heritage Trail, Virginia's Birding and Wildlife Trail and the Trans-America National Bicycle Trail call Damascus, Virginia home.

The town has been placed on the global map with the inception of Appalachian Trail Days, a week-long celebration of the hiking trail stretching from Springer Mountain in Georgia to Katahdin in Maine. Backpacker Magazine has become a major sponsor of the event while over 2,000 hikers and hundreds of vendors spend a week resting weary feet and celebrating a lifestyle that few understand, but many desire: one of freedom.

The Virginia Creeper Trail and Trans-America National Bicycle Trail are infamous trail systems for life on two wheels. The Virginia Creeper Trail, among the most famous of all rail trails, is 34 miles of double track bliss. Bicyclers from all over the globe have stopped by for an afternoon cruise from White Top Mountain to Damascus. The Trans-America National Bicycle Trail stretches from Oregon to the Virginia Shore and is a hallowed path for many road bicyclists.

While the trails provide plenty of enjoyment and excitement, there are many other reasons to call Damascus home. Home values are holding tight (even with the housing crisis) and increase more quickly than surrounding areas, making for an excellent investment. The local government is accessible and at the very least, is concerned about the residents. The local school system makes do with a laughable budget and does nothing short of scoring among the highest in standardized tests throughout the state. All of this and Damascus residents are only minutes from the booming city of Bristol. The most attractive feature of the small town of Damascus, Virginia is that it is a true community. It is among the last of the Mayberry-like towns.

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