Galax is a trail head for New River Trail State Park, a 57-mile linear "Rails to Trails" recreation Park. The Trail, which often parallels the New River is ideal for horseback riding, hiking and bicycling. It is recognized as one of the Top 10 Mountain Bike Trails in the United States.

Plans are to connect the southern most access into the center of downtown Galax. Galax also serves as headquarters for the southern Ranger Station, located on Cliffview Road at milemarker 55. Supplies, information and souvenirs of the park are available at the Ranger Station.

Directions - From Interstate 77, head west on US 58. Once inside the city limits, the trailhead is located just past the 6th stoplight on the right. Click here for their website.

For events that are scheduled, and for everyday fun, you can find outdoor recreation at the Galax Recreation Department. The building has an indoor swimming pool, gymnasium, meeting facilities and ping pong and air hockey tables.

The area known as Felts Park also has an outdoor pool, playground, and picnic shelter. The outdoor compound also includes tennis courts and outdoor basketball and volleyball courts. Also, an outdoor skateboarding area is located on the corner of Main Street and Bartlett Street. No admission fee, however safety gear is required. A .6 mile walking track encompasses one of the playing fields, where organized soccer, football and baseball games are played.

Staff members include a full time Senior Citizen coordinator, for scheduling dining trips, socials, bingo and other activities to keep the area’s seniors active and involved. To find out about organized sports schedules, senior citizen activities and community events in Felts Park, click here for their website.

The scenic New River, the second oldest river in the world, flows near the city in Grayson and Carroll Counties. Canoeing, tubing, kayaking and fishing are activities enjoyed by thousands of visitors each year. Fishing on the New River requires a Virginia fishing license.

The New has populations of major freshwater game fish. Including: smallmouth bass, spotted bass, largemouth bass, rock bass, striped bass, white bass, hybrid striped bass, muskellunge, walleye black crappie, channel catfish, flathead catfish, yellow perch, redbreast sunfish and bluegill. Boat launch ramps can be found along the river, using local county maps for information. If you are interested in fishing the New River, you may obtain a copy of "Float and Fishing Trips" by call the Director of Tourism, City of Galax, at (276) 238-8130, or email at galaxcity@tcia.net.

Cliffview Trading Post

Located across from the New River Trail State Park Ranger Station at Cliffview. Horseback riding, all equipment furnished, guide included. Departure Times, 10:00 am and 2:00pm. Stable rentals. Bicycle rentals also available. Call Kenneth Luper at (276) 238-1530.

Blue Ridge Parkway

This scenic highway borders the southern end of Galax, and crosses both Carroll and Grayson Counties. This "museum" corridor lines with nature’s treasure, offers scenic vistas, peaceful walk along trails or across meadows and connects the state with quaint, historical sites and communities. For information and a brochure call the Galax City Director of Tourism at (276) 238-8130. Click here for their website.

Your canoe trip includes top quality canoes, paddles, life jackets, and transportation either to your put-in point or back from your take-out point. You can choose the length of your trip. Most people stop to eat along the river and you can bring your own lunch.Call (276) 238-0878. Click here to find out more at their website.

Mount Rogers Recreation Area

Grayson Highlands State Park and The Appalachian Trail are all located west of Galax in beautiful Grayson County. Mount Rogers is the highest peak in Virginia, representing the state at 5,792 feet. A four mile hike via the Rhododendron Gap trail from Grayson Highlands State Park and the Appalachian Trail. Click here for their website.

Grayson Highlands State Park

The park has a interpretive Visitor Center, campground, horse stables and cabins. (276) 579-7092. For general information about the entire Mount Rogers Recreation Area, including the Appalachian Trail call (276) 783-5196. For the golf enthusiast, several public courses can be found within a thirty minute drive of Galax. Click here for their website.

Skyland Lakes Golf Course

Just off the Blue Ridge Parkway in the Fancy Gap section of Carroll County, 18 hole course. For information and tee times call (276) 728-4923.

Jefferson Landing

This 18 hole championship course was designed by two-time PGA champion and U.S. Open Championship winner Larry Nelson. The New River Course offers a supreme challenge for golfers of all abilities. Guests enjoy access to a junior Olympic pool, volleyball area and tennis courts. For information and reservations call 1-800-292-6274.

Deer Creek Golf Park

Located south of Galax, off US 89 on Edmonds Road, Deer Creek is the area’s only par 3 course. Owners Alton, Norma, Barry and Laura Poole invite you to bring the family and enjoy putt-putt, the driving range and the indoor arcade. Special rates for birthday and civic organization parties. Call (276) 236- 3221 for information and directions. Click here to go to their website.

Olde Mill Golf Resort

Located east of Galax, and just off the Blue Ridge Parkway in Laurel Fork, Virginia. Olde Mill is an 18 hole course, designed by Ellis Mapes. Included in the resort are conference facilities, Niblick’s, a full service restaurant, a pro shop, practice range, tennis courts, indoor pool and spa and spacious cottages and condominiums. For complete gold package arrangements call (800) 753-5005, or click here for their website.

Blue Ridge Country Club

Private 18 hole club, located between Galax and Hillsville on Glendale Road. Play may be available during the week, call the clubhouse for details. (276) 236-5637.