Dogs can go on the trail but only when leashed. Once it's full, if you park in the shoulder outside the parking lot you may be towed. It sits in between Dragon’s Tooth and Tinker Cliffs, and the three views make up what’s called the … Please note that the parking lot fills up fast! Appalachian Trail, McAfee’s Knob (twice) I was due to fly out of the US on the 10th Sept, but a bonus opportunity to explore part of the Appalachian trail came up, so I took it. The Knob has an almost 270 degree panorama of the Catawba Valley and North Mountain to the West, Tinker Cliffs to the North and the Roanoke Valley to the East. In this article, we discuss how long it takes to hike to McAfee Knob, a geological feature located on the Appalachian Trail. McAfee Knob is one of the most photographed points along the entire trail McAfee Knob is perhaps the most iconic geological formation along the Appalachian Trail. Vehicles not parked in the parking lot are subject to tow. Many hikers claim that the summit of McAfee Knob feels like an alien world totally disconnected from planet earth. Also, it’s icy at the top of McAfee Knob :). A little icy at the top but sooo worth it! The knob is located atop Catawba Mountain with an elevation of 3,197 feet and is one of the highlights of the Appalachian Trail. Required fields are marked *. A few patches of ice but nothing bad. People who visit this area of the US are stunned by the natural beauty on display. Winter conditions can make walking difficult even when you have snowshoes. That's a big YET, because my plans are to thru-hike after retirement. I need to do this one again because it rained the whole time and got dark before my group got to the top. We think McAfee Knob is well-worth the hike. The route will take … Great trail with fantastic panoramic views. We decided to take the Fire Line Trail instead of the AT becuase it is much wider, it made it a lot easier to travel with two dogs - given how crowded the trail was. McAfee Knob is the most photographed spot on the trail. Hiking can be a time-consuming and sometimes strenuous activity. This trail sees a large number of traffic and has been having problems with rising trash, illegal camping and misuse of the area. The parking lot is located on Highway 311, park and cross the road to access the trail. The hike is moderately difficult with a gradual incline. The overlook provides visitors with a 270-degree panoramic view of the Catawba Valley due to being 3,200 feet above sea level. It’s more strenuous than you think. Large crowds can lead to litter, loud and disruptive dogs, and general pandemonium, all of which mimic city life – precisely what many explorers are trying to escape. This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. Very well maintained. Definitely recommend sticking to the AT... it’s prettier with the water running off the mountain. If you plan on spending lots of time at the summit, perhaps to have a picnic and take pictures, this trail will probably take closer to 6 to 7 hours to complete. -No alcohol Rainwater is collected from the roof and stored in a large tank. There are many resting spots and picnic tables throughout the trail. The 8.8-mile loop trail takes most hikers around 4 to 5 hours to complete. -Dogs must be kept on leash at all times Then, we discuss some common questions that hikers have. McAfee Knob Trail Length Follow the approximately 4.4 mile, white-blazed trail that gradually makes the ascent to McAfee Knob - a peak of 3,197 feet . Current trail conditions are great - minimal mud, no snow, and some ice at the very top. Very moderate incline. If you park on the street, you will be ticketed for good reason ~ it’s a time stamp in the event you don’t return (yes they monitor the vehicles in the event someone gets lost). This is also a very popular area to watch the sunset on a There is a gravel parking lot located on top of Catawba Mountain on Route 311. I have not been on the AT, yet. What Is Backpacking?Answer To Help You Out, Umpqua Hot Springs: A Guide to Hiking and Exploring, Ten Important Hiking Tips You Need To Know Before Your Next Journey, How to Pack a Hiking Backpack to Minimize Strain and Maximize Space, What States Does the Appalachian Trail Go Through? These foods are also filling, so you won’t need to eat a lot on the trail. Dry conditions no breeze and low 50s made this a super easy and fun one. We went prime time fall foliage and bumped into a few along the way. We recommend bringing more food and water than you anticipate needing, especially if you are visiting during warm weather. In addition, visitors can witness the Roanoke Valley as well as North Mountain and Tinker Cliffs. Since this trail is a loop, hikers will travel a total of 8.8 miles. B Vrtacnik / AllTrails For those looking to experience this famous view of the trail, the 7.5-mile out-and-back trail isn't easy but is by all accounts worth the effort. Appalachian Trail to McAfee Knob – McAfee Knob Area, Virginia . After leaving off in Pearisburg, I hiked the highly anticipated Dragon’s Tooth, Mcafee Knob, and Tinker Cliffs, got drenched while walking the first part of the Blue Ridge Parkway, and got bested by the Priest and Three Ridges Wilderness areas. Note: The McAfee Knob hike is one of the most popular hikes along the entire Appalachian Trail and sees a tremendous amount of hiker traffic. Great hike. The summer can also slow your travel time on this trail. This is a very popular hike and can take anywhere from 4-6 hours to walk. No photograph could possibly capture that truth. The summit attracts many people throughout the year, which can create palpable energy that is practically contagious. Due to this change, the summit is often much cooler than the lower parts of the trail. Please leave no trace and be mindful of trash! Lastly, we recommend bringing several bags to store your food waste. Many park past the enterance - about 6 miles out and take an Uber for $10. M cAfee Knob is one of the most photographed spots on the Appalachian Trail (A.T.) as it winds its way through Virginia. It is not a crowded park, like some say, there is limited parking, that’s all. Product #: gm539338532 $ 33.00 iStock In stock we got there at around 7 and the parking lot was starting to get full. But at Woods Hole, it does. This time of year can present its own difficulties due to snowfall and inclement weather. It’s important to note that weather conditions influence how long it takes to hike the Trail. I may be able to get a section hike of the AT within the next couple years, though. Great trail, highly recommend! Quite a few spots for dispersed camping as well! For example. The incline on this trail seemed more gradual. If you’re a hiker who is sensitive to large groups of people or prefers to experience nature away from all forms of society, McAfee might not be the ideal location. Prepping You To Make The Hike, McAfee Knob is a surfboard-like rock feature that juts out from. -Trail features are those listed in the 2009 Appalachian Trail Thru-Hikers’ Compaion, links take you to pages and/or pics depicting them where available.-Amenity abbreviations are as follows: S=Shelter, W=Water, L=Lodging, M=Restaurant, C=Camping, G=Groceries, O=Outfitter, Sh=Showers, Cl=Laundry A spigot just behind the shelter serves as the water source. There are a few creeks to cool and rinse off. I would say Tinker Cliffs was slightly more difficult because of the steep stairs. The other two trails are Dragon’s Tooth Trail and Tinker Cliffs Trail. Only 25 minutes from downtown Roanoke, its ease of access and expansive views make it a favorite day hiking destination. Hiked on 11/29 and got started at noon and did it in 3h20m with a slow start due to our legs being right from the 3 hour car ride. Before long, you will find yourself powering off your phone and venturing to the edge of the mountain. I would rate this more as moderate and not difficult. Well marked trail and saw some minor ice patches ...will call it moderate at max for an average hiker. A few days later, and here I am; parked in a car park near McAfee’s Knob, which is the most-photographed part of the trail, apparently. 311 or the adjoining side street – YOU WILL BE TOWED. We took the AT on the way there and fire road on the way back. ROANOKE, Va. (Dec. 22, 2020) – One of the most famous vistas on the Appalachian Trail (A.T.), McAfee Knob, has been given additional protection with the acquisition of three tracts of land near Roanoke. Here are some things to know before you go. You could park at the parking area, bring a lunch and eat at McAfee Knob, then return to your vehicle. It is so inspiring that many people even propose to their partner there. 311) has limited space; DO NOT PARK on Rt. The most crowded days are the weekends during which there is very limited parking. The hike totals 8.3 miles out and back hike, and it is well worth the view. And search more of iStock's library of royalty-free stock images that features Adventure photos available for quick and easy download. McAfee Knob via Appalachian Trail is a 8.1 mile heavily trafficked out and back trail located near Catawba, Virginia that features beautiful wild flowers and is rated as difficult. The trail is primarily used for hiking, camping, and backpacking and is best used from April until November. McAfee Knob, a rock protrusion resembling a diving board, juts out from the side of Catawba Mountain high above Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains - from the rocky perch you are afforded incredible views of the Catawba and Roanoke Valleys and the chance to savor one of the finest views along the Appalachian Trail. We recommend packing your own trail mix as well, as this will allow you to bring densely nutritious foods like nuts, dried fruit, and grains. For those on day hikes, there are two main shelters you can rest at. Moderately difficult hike to an absolutely beautiful view. The National Park … But the investment is usually rewarded with unprecedented views of the natural forest. The views were amazing. McAfee Knob is a popular 8 mile hike along the Appalachian Trail (AT) in southwest VA. If your knees bother you, you can take the fire trail (up and/or down), which does not change the distance. It is ideal to hike this on a weekday as weekends are crowded. iStock Mcafee Knob On Appalachian Trail In Virginia Stock Photo - Download Image Now Download this Mcafee Knob On Appalachian Trail In Virginia photo now. The spring and fall are the peak times of the year to visit McAfee Knob due to the mild temperatures. The parking lot is relatively small, so it is recommended that you get there early in the day. This is an ideal time for photography. I am from NE Ohio and have done local 1-3 day over-nighters in OH, PA and WV. “It’s a more rugged hike on the Appalachian Trail,” they said. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash. -Maximum group size, backpacking/camping: 10 -Maximum group size, day hikes: 25 Use trekking poles if you need stability for sharp inclines or descends. Not only is the Appalachian Trail one of the most scenic routes in the US but the McAfee Knob section is arguably one of its most famous sections. Nearly 600 acres of permanently protected land will be added to the area in an effort to preserve the views from McAfee Knob, improve access to the Appalachian Trail and provide greater conservation of the surrounding area. We didnt end up seeing many people until the way down, it definitely got crowded on the return. This is just an indication of how awe-inspiring the view is. As a result, sometimes the crowds can be loud, disturbing the quietude and peace of nature. Easier than Tinker Cliffs in my opinion. Views at Mcafee knob are worth the hike. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash. Beautiful trail. Many hikers stop for water and snack breaks during the warmer temperatures, which extends the hike. Third Entrance (No Parking directly at trail head) – You can see the Howard Johnson Trail East. The hike to McAfee Knob entails a 1,700-foot elevation gain. The top provides some breathtaking views and I'd recommend any hiker take an opportunity to experience this trail. This is a slow and steady climb to the most photographed spot on the Appalachian Trail. Knob, Knob, Knobbing on Heaven’s Door: Weeks 8-10 on the Trail What a section! McAfee Knob via Appalachian Trail is a 13.0 kilometer heavily trafficked out and back trail located near Catawba, Virginia that features beautiful wild flowers and is rated as difficult. Your email address will not be published. If you hike to McAfee Knob, we encourage you to minimize your usage of electronics. Appalachian Trail: Sinking Creek Mountain to Sarver Hollow, Carvins Cove: Hi-Dee Ho to the Gauntlet and the Horse Pen Loop, Mcafee Knob and Tinker Cliffs via the Appalachian Trail, Four Gorges to Lakeside to The Gauntlet to Hi-Dee-Hoe Loop, McAfee's Knob Trail: Catawba to Daleville, The Trough, Brushy Mountain Fire Road, and The Gauntlet Loop, Dragon's Tooth, Mcafee Knob and Tinker Cliff's, George Washington and Jefferson National Forests. Note: parking is limited. Finally, we offer our thoughts on the future of McAfee Knob. Amazing views! This shelter is also notorious because it has been the on-again-off-again home for an otherwise homeless woman named Peggy who believes herself to be the deposed queen of England. I just want to say that I have really enjoyed this Appalachian Trail sub-reddit. The second, Catawba Mountain Shelter, is about two miles in. Pack out all trash, no trash cans provided on the trail as this trail is simply part of the Appalachian Trail (AT). Since this trail is a loop, hikers will travel a total of 8.8 miles. It’s an eight mile round trip hike to McAfee Knob and back, taking approximately four hours. The main drawback is that McAfee Knob has become very touristy in recent years. Really, the only way to avoid the crowds is to go during the winter months. Many people come to the summit to meditate early in the morning, getting there just as the sunrise is beginning. McAfee Knob hiking trail ends on rocky mountain terrain that sticks out on a diving-like platform into the air. What’s really great about the trail is how the canopy provides shade for those on day hikes, which is an appreciated luxury during the brutal summer heat. On a clear … After hitting it in bad weather I hiked it a second time to properly see it. McAfee Knob is one of the most photographed spots on the Appalachian Trail (A.T.) as it winds its way through Virginia. The distance from this trailhead to the summit of McAfee Knob is about 4.4 miles. Park rules and regulations are enforced: McAfee Knob is a beautiful 8 mile round-trip hike to the summit of Catawba Mountain. The hike is a climb of around 1,700 feet (520 m) and about 4.7 miles (7.6 km) to the top of the Knob from the VA-311 parking area. Gorgeous day out. ROANOKE, Va. (Feb. 6, 2020) – One of the most iconic locations along the 2,193-mile Appalachian Trail (A.T.), McAfee Knob has become one of Central Virginia’s most defining — … Epic views throughout in the winter with the leaves down. Base elevation is the elevation given at the parking area, 2,000'. I would switch this to a moderate rating and Tinker Cliffs to hard. -No camping or campfires on McAfee Knob or Tinker Cliffs. The McAfee Knob hike on the Appalachian Trail turned out to be an awesome break from the norm near Catawba, Virginia. The eponymous knob located at the summit of the trail offers such breathtaking views you won’t want to leave. 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