Appalachian Trail - Virginia

Description:

• The white-blazed Appalachian Trail passes through 14 states, 8 national forests, 2 national parks and numerous state parks. The A.T. enters Virginia at Damascus which is just southwest of Mt. Rogers. It weaves around and into the Mt. Rogers Ranger District of George Washington & Jefferson National Forests (elevation approx. 5,700 feet). It continues eastward around Pine Mountain (Virginia's Pine Mountain, Kentucky has one also.) and up onto Hurricane Mountain. The path heads north a few miles south of Marion and continues north crossing Interstate 81 and ascending Walker Mountain. It descends Walker Mountain into the gorgeous Rich Valley and back up to the top of Brushy Mountain. It descends again and travels along side Medley Valley heading northeast. Ascending back up on Brushy Mountain once again, the trail encounters campgrounds, White Pine Horse and Walnut Flats. Both of these areas offer drinking water. The trail continues to ascend to almost 4,000 feet at Sugar Run Mountain which offers a spectacular outlook. The elevation descends slightly but basically remains at 4,000 feet while traveling on Pearis Mountain. The trail cross the New River where New River State Park resides hosting one of Virginia's most popular mountain biking, hiking and equestrian paths. There are access points and overnight parking for the A.T. from this park. This is also an area from which you may obtain fresh drinking water and a pleasant location for day-rest.