ELKINS — The city of Elkins has been honored by “Southern Living” magazine as one of 2021’s 10 Best Mountain Towns in the South.

Tens of thousands of “Southern Living” magazine readers voted on their favorite destinations, restaurants, natural wonders and more in the fifth annual South’s Best survey.

“We are proud and humbled that Elkins was voted ‘Best Mountain Town,'” Tara Gainer, director of marketing for the Elkins-Randolph County Tourism CVB, said in a press release. “While we may be biased, we could not agree more with the voters. Elkins is a special place and the reason many people visit this region of West Virginia.”

“Southern Living”‘s write-up about the 10 Best Mountain Towns describes Elkins as “an outdoor paradise.”

“The word is getting out about our hidden gem towns, and it couldn’t come at a better time, with so many Americans looking for post-COVID vacation destinations,” West Virginia Tourism Commissioner Chelsea Ruby said in the release. “These designations confirm what we already know to be true–West Virginia’s mountain towns are full of spectacular locales, amazing views, great people and fun things to see and do. It’s no wonder folks come back time and time again.

“As you’re making summer getaway plans, I hope you’ll consider visiting one of our great state’s charming small towns,” Ruby said.

“Southern Living”‘s entry on Elkins also mentions the Monongahela National Forest, the Durbin & Greenbrier Valley Railroad, the Allegheny Highlands Trail, Davis & Elkins College and the Augusta Heritage Center.

A companion article about the Elkins area also mentions several local businesses and restaurants.