Norton is rich in folklore and mountain recreation
In 2011, the television show “Finding Bigfoot” came to the Southwest Virginia city of Norton to search for the fabled Woodbooger, a Bigfoot-like creature that is said to roam the Appalachian Mountains. Since then, Norton has leaned into its identity as a Woodbooger Sanctuary, and evidence of the creature is easy to find in downtown businesses and in the area’s parks. “It’s mountainous, so Bigfoot is a big thing here,” says Michelle Childress, who’s sold homes in the area for 16 years and is a Realtor with Appalachian Realty Executives. Outdoor recreation is a big draw for the area, which is known for trails, scenic lookouts and fishing spots. Childress says Norton is a place where people know their neighbors. “Norton does a lot of things for the community, like the Best Friend Festival,” she says. “People help each other here — you don’t see that everywhere.”
Woodboogers, hiking trails and scenic views draw visitors
The city-owned Flag Rock Recreation Area has around 1,000 acres of protected mountain forests that are popular for hiking and mountain biking. The park is home to a much-photographed statue of a Woodbooger, and it also includes reservoirs where canoers and kayakers can spend the day fishing for trout. High Knob is a standout peak nearby that’s known for its lookout tower, a regional landmark that offers mountain views in all directions; a paved road allows drivers to reach the summit. Norton City Park has a more urban vibe, with a playground, tennis courts and basketball court. Cinema City Stadium Theatres shows the latest movies, as does the Central Drive-In, which has operated since the 1950s.
Ranch-style homes and bungalows along hilly streets
“Norton's an older town, so we have a lot of older houses,” Childress says. Most homes here are ranch-style, Minimal Traditional and bungalows built between the 1960s and ‘90s. These sit along hilly, curving streets, and sidewalks make it easy to walk around. Colonial-style and Queen Anne homes from the early 1900s can be found near Park Avenue, but these are less common. Many of the homes here have driveways, and street parking is available in some areas. Prices typically range from around $100,000 to $330,000. Some properties might be in a floodplain; homeowners should check flood maps to assess their risk. Low- and mid-rise apartment complexes provide rental options throughout the community.
Norton’s schools earn As and offer courses with nearby colleges
Kids can attend Norton City Public Schools, which earns an A from Niche. They can start at Norton Elementary and Middle School and then attend John I. Burton High; both earn an A-minus. High schoolers can take dual enrollment courses through Mountain Empire Community College in Big Stone Gap or the University of Virginia’s College at Wise. The university is about 7 miles away and offers bachelor's degrees in over 30 subjects.
Locally owned shops and restaurants on Park Avenue
Brick storefronts line Park Avenue, housing locally owned stores selling outdoor equipment and clothing. The Woodbooger Grill is one of the area’s most popular restaurants. “They’ve got good food, and they’ve got some wooden statues of Bigfoot,” Childress says. Mi Finca Mexican Restaurant serves classic Mexican comfort food in a colorful atmosphere. Each Tuesday from June through September, the Norton Farmers Market sells locally sourced food, produce and crafts at the Norton Expo Center downtown. United Grocery Outlet is the closest grocery store, and Walmart and Food City are along Highway 23 toward Wise.
Events celebrate the area’s folklore and community spirit
Each September at Flag Rock Recreation Area, the annual Woodbooger Festival celebrates the area’s folklore with three days of events, including lectures from Bigfoot experts, live music and a Woodbooger lookalike contest. June’s Best Friend Festival downtown features a week of family-friendly activities, vendors and talent contests. “It’s basically a block party,” Childress says.
A car-reliant area near Highways 23 and 58
U.S. Highways 58 and 23 meet in Norton, connecting the city to the rest of Southwest Virginia and Eastern Kentucky. Wise is about 5 miles away, and Big Stone Gap is a 12-mile drive. Norton Community Hospital provides health care here. Houses of worship include First Baptist Church of Norton and Norton United Methodist Church. Tri-Cities Airport is about 63 miles away.
Written By
Annie Franklin
