Historic railroad town with a thriving arts and culture scene
Clifton Forge is a southwest Virginia community that blends railroad heritage, a picturesque setting and Appalachian charm in the greater Roanoke region. The town was once a major stopover on the Chesapeake & Ohio Railroad, and important buildings along the route have since turned into historic landmarks that signify the town’s legacy. Today, Clifton Forge embraces its Appalachian roots and industrial heritage through its many establishments that foster creative energy, such as the Alleghany Highlands Arts & Crafts Center and the Clifton Forge School of the Arts. Nestled along the Jackson River within the Alleghany Mountains, Clifton Forge’s beautiful scenery and vibrant downtown district have earned the town its nickname as “a Highlands Treasure.”
Rural land and historic homes offer variety for buyers
While still situated on modest lots, homes closer to Clifton Forge’s town center sit more clustered together, while rural properties sprawl on the outskirts. Vernacular folk-style homes are common, often two-storied with small front porches. Foursquares, colonials and cottages round out the inventory here, many with heavy farmhouse and antebellum influences and details such as ornate, generous porches. Parcels of land for sale offer the opportunity for new construction and custom builds. Prices typically start at $75K, though fixer-uppers and investment properties may have price tags below that, and reach up to the mid-$300,000s. Outliers include grand estates that fetch up to $2 million.
Education within Alleghany Highlands Public Schools
Alleghany Highlands Public Schools serve students in Clifton Forge. The district gets a C overall grade and includes the B-minus-rated Mountain View School. Students may continue to the C-rated Clifton Middle School and Alleghany High School, which receives a C-plus. Home of the Cougars, the high school offers a strong athletics program, which includes basketball, football and more. The school was recently recognized as a Level Up Virginia Champion for the 2024-2025 school year, which honors the high school’s dedication to helping students plan life after graduation. Clifton Forge is also close to Mountain Gateway Community College for locals seeking post-secondary education.
Forest trails and river access offer year-round recreation
Clifton Forge’s location at the foothills of George Washington & Jefferson National Forest puts residents in proximity to an abundance of hiking trails and other outdoor recreation. Campgrounds dot the landscape and offer a place to reconnect with nature. Nearby bodies of water include the Jackson River and Clifton Forge Reservoir, both popular for fishing and boating. Douthat State Park sits north of the community. Trout streams branch off Douthat Lake, which is surrounded by a network of trails that total 43 miles. Another popular destination is Devil’s Backbone, a rock formation that juts up among the dense forest along the Jackson River.
Appalachian-inspired dining and small-town shopping options
While Interstate 64 is a major route that bisects Clifton Forge, most of the town’s happenings concentrate around Business Route 60. Here, a conglomerate of restaurants, cafes, hotels and stores line the avenue, which is anchored by the Clifton Forge Town Hall. Casual eateries reflect the Appalachian flavor and vibe of Clifton Forge, with favorites including Jack Mason’s Tavern & Brewery and C & Oh! Ice Cream Depot. Locally owned stores include gift shops, boutiques and antique stores. Kroger fulfills groceries and other essentials, while additional convenience stores include Dollar General and Family Dollar. While additional dining and shopping can be found in Lexington, 30 miles west, most residents head south to Roanoke for big-box retailers and national chains, many which are located at the Valley View Mall.
Arts school, amphitheater and museum highlight local culture
Clifton Forge’s collection of creative establishments and attractions continues to engage residents and invite visitors. The Clifton Forge School of the Arts primarily offers year-round classes ranging from performing arts to fine arts—for both children and adults. The school also showcases ongoing exhibits and hosts a multitude of diverse events and programs, such as bluegrass jam sessions, Christmas artisanal markets and more. A variety of performances come to life at the Masonic Amphitheater, a historic theater that beckons visitors for its architecture as much as it does its events. Performances range from jazz concerts to ballets and plays. More of Clifton Forge’s history is on display at the C&O Railway Heritage Center, where historic railcars and model trains give visitors a glimpse into the town’s past as a railroad stop.
Interstate 64 and Route 220 link the town to Roanoke and beyond
While it is no longer a significant stop, the Clifton Forge train station is served by the Amtrak Cardinal line. Though the station offers limited facilities, the train line links to cities like Culpepper, Charlottesville and Staunton. Still, most locals are car-dependent and connect to surrounding towns via Interstate 64, which serves as a major thoroughfare for Virginia and links to West Virginia. Residents can get to Roanoke, less than 50 miles south, via Route 220.
Written By
Christina von Claparede-Crola