High Knob Tower - Sunrise and Sunset

Overview. High Knob Tower provides amazing views of surrounding mountains looking deep into Virginia and west to Kentucky. I took full advantage of camping nearby at Flag Rock Recreation Area - stopping in for multiple sunrises and sunsets. When visiting or passing through, it’s worth a quick stop.

Route Type | Out and Back
Total Distance | 0.4 miles
Overall Difficulty | Easy
*this trail is handicap accessible

Trailhead. The trailhead is in the High Knob Recreation Area located off VA-619. Head up the road and make a sharp right to reach the parking lot. [map]

Trail navigation. Follow the paved path that circles around the knob up to the tower.

Restoration in progress. Note that all hiking traffic should be on the paved trail leading to the observation tower. The remaining areas are under restoration.

CAUTION - Poisonous snakes. Copperheads and timber rattlesnakes can be found in the area. Stay alert on the trail, and if you see one, give it a wide berth or wait for it to move off the trail.

CAUTION - Bears. There are plenty of black bears in the area, so it pays to take appropriate precautions including bear-safe food storage, carrying bear spray (especially when hiking alone), and knowing what to do when you encounter a bear. [Be Bear Aware by US Forest Service]