Abingdon is located in Washington County, of which it is the county seat, and in Western Region of the state. Abingdon is one of the oldest English-speaking towns in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Abingdon today is the beginning point of the Virginia Creeper National Recreation Trail, a 34-mile former railbed of the Virginia-Carolina Railroad. The trail is popular with hikers, bicyclists, and runner; a 15-mile section provides an easy hike on winding trails leading to Damascus. Abingdon's 20-square-block historic district contains many 19th-century buildings including the Fields-Penn 1860 House and historic lodgings; a walking tour brochure is available from the visitor's bureau. Abingdon is located just north of the Tennessee state line, and just off I81. Abingdon is part of the Johnson City-Kingsport-Bristol metro area.