Nelson County’s approximately 15,000 inhabitants thinly populate 474 square miles. The County is unencumbered by incorporated towns, pollution, and high taxes, and residents often boast about having only one traffic light. Agriculture is still a way of life for many Nelson County residents and a very important local economic factor. Orchards, vineyards, and grazing cattle dot the landscape. Fruits, especially apples, peaches, and grapes provide much of the farm income, followed closely by beef cattle.
Within the boundaries of Nelson County there are numerous attractions for residents and tourists alike. Wintergreen Resort in the northwest corner of the County is best known as a winter sport destination, but also has a variety of warm weather programs and activities available including golf, tennis, hiking, and water tubing. The Nature Foundation of Wintergreen maintains the trails located on the resort, and has a mission to promote native plants on the mountain. The Foundation has excellent educational programs for people of all ages, and partners with local public and private schools to provide learning experiences for students.
The Appalachian Trail runs through the County and there are numerous other hiking, biking, and walking trails for all ability levels. During the last couple of decades a number of wineries/vineyards, cideries, breweries, and distilleries have opened for business, building this relatively new industry culture in the County.
The serene beauty of Nelson County is not something the residents take for granted or ever want to leave. No matter what the season of the year or what the weather is like, a simple glance around can fill one with the Magnificence of its Creator. We are indeed graced by our surroundings and by our friends.