Overview of the Experience
Discover how strategic investments in outdoor recreation can strengthen communities, enhance quality of life, and serve as a catalyst for tourism and economic development. This guided walking tour of Christiansburg Huckleberry Park will explore one of Southwest Virginia's premier outdoor recreation destinations and the intentional planning behind its development.
Participants will learn how the Town of Christiansburg leveraged outdoor infrastructure to create a vibrant, multi-use community asset that welcomes residents and visitors alike. From the all-inclusive playground and zero-depth splash pad to tournament-quality athletic fields, dog parks, open green space, and direct connection to the Huckleberry Trail, the park demonstrates how thoughtful recreation investments can support placemaking, attract visitors, encourage healthy lifestyles, and generate economic activity.
The excursion will begin with a welcome from Samantha Livesay (Radford University alumna, Class of 2012), Executive Director of Blacksburg-Christiansburg-Montgomery County Regional Tourism, followed by a guided tour led by Brad Epperley (Radford University alumnus, Class of 1997), Director of Christiansburg Parks & Recreation.
Capacity: 25 participants.
Where to Meet: 300 Huckleberry Park Drive NW, Christiansburg VA 24073
Meet Time: 2:00pm, expect to complete around 3:30pm
*lunch is not provided – be sure to arrive early and enjoy lunch at the many options in Blacksburg and Christiansburg*
Activity Level & Accessibility
- Guided walking tour on paved pathways with some gentle elevation changes.
- Golf cart transportation can be provided as a mobility accommodation upon request.
What's Included
- Welcome and destination overview from Montgomery County Regional Tourism
- Guided tour led by the Director of Christiansburg Parks & Recreation
- Interpretation of the park's planning, development, amenities, and community impact
- Discussion of how outdoor recreation supports tourism, placemaking, quality of life, and economic vitality
Key Learning Outcomes
Participants will:
- Explore how outdoor recreation infrastructure can become a destination asset.
- Learn how strategic investments in parks contribute to tourism and local economic growth.
- Understand the role of partnerships between tourism, local government, and parks and recreation in creating successful outdoor experiences.
- Gain ideas for leveraging outdoor recreation to enhance community identity and attract both residents and visitors.
