Highland County, Virginia

Highland_County_Courthouse

View_from_Hightown,_Virginia

Highland_County_Virginia_Census_Map

Cows_Blue_Grass,_Virginia

Route250_Virginia

Monterey,_Virginia_Street

HighlandCounty.wmg

Highland County
U.S. county
County of Highland
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Coordinates:
Country	United States
Seat	Monterey
Area
• Total	416 sq mi (1,080 km2)
• Land	415 sq mi (1,070 km2)
• Water	1.3 sq mi (3 km2)
Population  (2020)
• Total	2,082
• Density	5.0/sq mi (1.9/km2)

[[Category:{{{state}}} counties]]

Highland County is a county located in the Commonwealth of Virginia. As of the 2020 census, the population was 2,082, making it the least populous county in Virginia. The county seat is Monterey. Highland County is known for its mountainous terrain and is often referred to as "Virginia's Switzerland."

History

Highland County was formed in 1847 from parts of Bath and Pendleton counties. The county's name reflects its high elevation and mountainous landscape. The area has a rich history of Scots-Irish and German settlement.

Geography

Highland County is located in the western part of Virginia, bordering West Virginia. The county is characterized by its rugged terrain, with elevations ranging from 1,800 to over 4,500 feet. The Allegheny Mountains run through the county, providing a natural barrier and contributing to its sparse population.

Adjacent counties

• Pendleton County, West Virginia - north
• Augusta County, Virginia - east
• Bath County, Virginia - south
• Pocahontas County, West Virginia - west

Demographics

As of the 2020 census, Highland County had a population of 2,082. The population density is approximately 5.0 people per square mile, making it one of the least densely populated counties in Virginia. The county's population is predominantly White, with small percentages of other racial and ethnic groups.

Economy

The economy of Highland County is primarily based on agriculture, forestry, and tourism. The county is known for its maple syrup production, celebrated annually at the Highland County Maple Festival. Tourism is also significant, with visitors attracted to the county's natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities.

Education

Highland County is served by the Highland County Public Schools system, which includes one elementary school and one combined middle and high school. The county's small population allows for a close-knit educational community.

Transportation

Highland County is accessible via several state routes, including SR 84, SR 250, and SR 220. The county does not have any interstate highways or rail service, contributing to its rural character.

Communities

Towns

• Monterey (county seat)

Unincorporated communities

• Blue Grass
• McDowell
• Mustoe
• Doe Hill

Notable people

• William H. Harman, Confederate general during the American Civil War

See also

• List of counties in Virginia
• National Register of Historic Places listings in Highland County, Virginia