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Meet Fries, Virginia (pronounced “Freeze”): a town that lies along the New River in Grayson County on the border of North Carolina, only 2 hours north of Charlotte. The Fries tourism director, Kevin Combs, joins the Carolina Outdoors to talk about history and outdoor adventures in the town, from tubing to hiking to fly fishing and more.
Visit Fries:
- Before the dam, before the town, before the trail, and before the state park, there was the New River. Along the river, visitors in Fries can tube, fly fish, kayak, and more.
- The Rail Trail spans 45 miles along the New River, from Fries to Pulaski, with a stretch going to Galax as well. Fries is generally cooler than Charlotte, and the Trail is mostly shading, making for a great hike or stroll.
- Kevin recommends the Fries Dam Steakhouse and the Windy River Cafe downtown. For lodging, check out the Washington Inn or mill houses for temporary rentals. Camping can be found throughout state parks as well.
- Music is important in Fries. In fact, the first recorded commercial country music artist was from Fries. On Thursday nights, the Fries Theatre hosts Music Jams, where residents and visitors play music, line dance, two-step, and enjoy the music circle.
Want to learn more or find a guide to explore Fries? Learn more at friesva.com or email Kevin at tourism@friesva.com.
Check out Kevin’s personal photography website at kcombs.com, filled with beautiful captures of the region surrounding Fries.
