Bristol, Virginia is a small city located in the Appalachian Mountains. The climate is mild with four distinct seasons. Summers are warm and humid while winters are cold and snowy. The city is situated on the banks of the South Fork Holston River and is surrounded by several creeks and streams. The hydrology of the area is important to the region's natural resources and is monitored closely by local and state agencies. Outdoor recreation opportunities are abundant with nearby parks and trails. Steele Creek Park offers hiking, boating, fishing, and camping. The Virginia Creeper Trail, a 34-mile trail through the mountains, is popular for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. The area also has numerous golf courses and is a popular destination for hunting and fishing.