Catawba, with a population hovering around 1,300, carries the kind of legacy that leaves a mark. The town’s centerpiece, Catawba Hospital, wasn’t always a state psychiatric facility. Its roots go back to 1857 when the site operated as Roanoke Red Sulphur Springs, a resort known for its mineral-rich waters believed to cure ailments. In the early 1900s, the springs became the foundation of Virginia’s first tuberculosis sanitarium, drawing patients from around the region.

Outdoor exploration dominates life in Catawba. The Appalachian Trail cuts a rugged path through the valley, drawing thousands of hikers annually to its segment known as the Triple Crown. The journey includes Dragon’s Tooth, a jagged spire requiring hands-and-feet scrambling; Tinker Cliffs, a long sandstone escarpment with broad views of the valley; and the most recognizable, McAfee Knob. Jutting dramatically from the ridgeline, McAfee Knob is one of the most photographed spots on the Appalachian Trail and is famous enough to have appeared in a Hollywood film. There are few places in the state where hikers can claim so many iconic peaks in such proximity. 

In between farmland and foothills, a working brewery has emerged as a cultural fixture. Solstice Farm Brewery produces small-batch beers on-site using hops and ingredients grown right on the property. Their taproom rotates through styles like hoppy IPAs and crisp rice lagers, many named after local landmarks and trail features. Community events often accompany the releases, with live acoustic sets and firepit gatherings.

Just off the trail corridor, small businesses continue to define the character of Catawba. Several farms offer seasonal goods ranging from goat milk soap to fresh vegetable boxes, some selling from roadside stands while others open their doors for scheduled visits. Another enduring structure is the Brauer Chapel, part of the original hospital complex. Built in 1914, its simple Gothic revival architecture includes arched windows and steep eaves that contrast the surrounding institutional buildings. It remains in occasional use, both ceremonially and for hospital functions.

Local dining options balance comfort with creativity. Mike’s Dog House in nearby New Castle serves hot dogs with kraut, chili, or cheese, and pairs them with seasoned fries or classic knishes. Their chocolate-covered-strawberry milkshake is a customer favorite, and the counter-service setup keeps things casual. For a more elevated meal, 1772 Rooftop on Main in Fincastle offers dishes like trout, duck breast, and flatbread pizzas, all served under a rooftop view. Their bar, built from an old airplane fuselage, adds a distinct touch to a menu built around shareable plates and local ingredients.

From food and drink, attention turns naturally to the buildings that have stood longest. Catawba Hospital's Nichols Building, completed in 1953, presents a very different style from the Brauer Chapel—mid-century utility meets medical design. It remains operational, with visible walkways linking it to older parts of the campus. Nearby are the weathered outlines of the former resort, including foundational remnants and a refurbished springhouse. These remain closed to the public but visible from trails and roads. The blend of mental health services and historical preservation makes the site one of the most unusual medical campuses in the state.



Just as Catawba’s historic structures have endured by being carefully maintained, your home’s longevity starts from within—especially in the areas you rarely see. Star City Home Services provides professional insulation for basements, attics, and crawlspaces, beginning with a full removal of outdated materials and debris. Contact us today for an estimate.