The Appalachian Plateau Region

The Appalachian Plateau Region is sometimes called the toe of the boot. It is a series of gaps, ridges, and valleys that are a part of a raised plateau that extends into Kentucky and Tennessee. A plateau is a broad, flat area of high land. The Appalachian Plateau is the western most region of Virginia. It is located in southwest Virginia, east of Kentucky. The Appalachian Plateau Region is the smallest region in Virginia. 

The Land

The land of the Appalachian Plateau is a raised, flat plateau. Although it is mostly flat, there are many valleys and streams which make the region very hilly and rugged. It is covered with forests and valuable coal fields. The Appalachian Plateau Region is a small portion of a larger plateau that stretches from New York to Alabama. 

Products & Industries 

The most important industry in the Appalachian Plateau Region is the coal mining industry. This industry produces the regions top product, coal. 

Points of Interest

  • Harry W. Meador Coal Museum 
  • Cumberland Gap National Park
To find out more about the Cumberland Gap, click on the button to the right!
Smith, Karla. All Around Virginia Regions and Resources. Chicago: Heinemann Library, 2003. Print.