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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 »

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 Situation Smith River Sports Complex is a $9.7 million facility... 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 »