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Smith River

Martinsville-Henry County Recreation Ranges from NASCAR to Cycling

Martinsville, Virginia is a small town with lots to do. Race fans flock to Martinsville Speedway for events throughout the year, and golf enthusiasts enjoy a variety of courses. The Smith River is a great place to fish, and its associated Smith River Trail System provides opportunities for hiking and cycling. Team sports abound at the new Smith River Sports Complex. And in warm-weather months, Uptown Martinsville hosts a monthly concert series and farmers market. NASCAR Racing at... Read More »
Martinsville Speedway in Martinsville, Virginia.

Martinsville Speedway Offers Front-Row Seats to Action

When racing enthusiasts hear the word Martinsville, they think of Martinsville Speedway. The motorsports industry is running as smoothly as a fine-tuned engine these days in Martinsville-Henry County, and there is no braking in sight. The .526-mile oval, affectionately known as The Paper Clip, has been hosting NASCAR races since 1949. It's the shortest track on the Sprint Cup circuit, but its small size brings some big advantages: Martinsville offers some of the most exciting and close racing... Read More »
Martinsville Speedway in Martinsville, Virginia.

Martinsville Speedway Offers Front-Row Seats to Action

When racing enthusiasts hear the word Martinsville, they think of Martinsville Speedway. The motorsports industry is running as smoothly as a fine-tuned engine these days in Martinsville-Henry County, and there is no braking in sight. The .526-mile oval, affectionately known as The Paper Clip, has been hosting NASCAR races since 1949. It's the shortest track on the Sprint Cup circuit, but its small size brings some big advantages: Martinsville offers some of the most exciting and close racing... Read More »

Smith River Sports Complex, Dick & Willie Passage Rail Trail Add to Martinsville-Henry County Recreation Scene

The Smith River Sports Complex and the Dick & Willie Passage Rail Trail are two new recreation attractions luring active types in Martinsville-Henry County. Smith River Sports Complex has been open since July 2009, while the Dick & Willie Passage Rail Trail held its ribbon-cutting ceremony in October 2010. Both sites have already become popular destinations for sports fans and anyone looking to get in shape.Complex SituationSmith River Sports Complex is a $9.7 million facility that... Read More »

Martinsville, VA in a Weekend

A quick tour of Martinsville, VA offers a mix of small-town Southern charm, engaging history, outdoor adventure and plenty of attractions. Here's a sample itinerary to discover some of the best things to do and see in Martinsville, all within a weekend visit. Day 1 Friday:   2 p.m.   Shopping in Martinsville Visit a variety of stores in Uptown Martinsville, Patrick Henry Mall or an outlet shop for that perfect gift or bargain.   5 p.m.   Hugo's Food, Sports and Spirits... Read More »
Philpott Lake

Philpott Lake in Martinsville, VA

A beautiful destination to escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life is Philpott Lake, in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The lake is 15 miles long and features 100 miles of overall shoreline, and serves residents within the counties of Henry, Franklin and Patrick. Philpott Lake is owned by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and is managed primarily for flood control and hydroelectric power generation. Construction of Philpott Dam started in 1948 and was completed in... Read More »
Bark In the Park

Henry County Excels in Doggy Health and Recreation

One day each summer, fans of the Martinsville Mustangs gather to support their baseball team by stomping their feet, clapping their hands and ... wagging their tails? The annual event is called Bark in the Park, and it's one of many efforts by the Henry County Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals to make Martinsville a pet haven. Dogs are asked to refrain from fetching fly balls. In addition to its standard adoption services, the SPCA offers low-price grooming and sterilization... Read More »

Beauty Abounds Along Martinsville-Henry County Rivers and Trails

Those who are looking to get away from it all in Martinsville-Henry County don’t have to look very far. From picturesque rivers to numerous hiking and biking trails, this is an area where the outdoors are indeed great, and recreational activities can be discovered in every direction. “There’s so much natural beauty found here right in our own backyard,” says Jennifer Doss, rivers and trails project manager for the Dan River Basin Association. “It’s really nice that you don’t have to drive long... Read More »