McAfee Knob

Great experience, but need to be prepared for a 4 mile hike that can take 4 to 8 hours. Take plenty of water and snacks as there are no options in the wooded trail. Moderate foot traffic with hikers coming and going, so always someone there including the wildlife.

McAfee Knob offers a highly rewarding hike with an exceptional viewpoint at the summit. The full loop is approximately 8 miles and we did it in 4 hours and 30 with two small kids. A few considerations for planning: - Begin early or later in the day to experience sunrise or sunset; if starting midday, aim to be on the trail before 10:00. - We completed the route with two children (ages 5 and 8), and they were able to walk the entire distance. - It is worth taking the easier Fire road as it safes you time. We did the hard trail on the way in and took the fire road when we walked back. - Carry at least one liter of water per person. Depending on the season - Parking can be limited, particularly during weekends and peak hours. - A camera is recommended, as the overlook provides excellent photo opportunities.

I moved to the area a couple years ago and only just now got the courage to hike this trail as an averagely lazy person. 8 miles seems intense and we took about 4 hours to complete not counting how long we had lunch at the top. There are 2 potential paths you can take, the Appalachian trail and the fire path, both of which lead to the Appalachian trail for the final 20ish minutes leading to the top. We took the Appalachian trail path there and the fire path on the way back out and for my fellow lazies: take the fire path both ways 😅 the Appalachian trail was much more rocky up and down with only a couple views to show for it. I believe if I had just done the fire path both ways I wouldn't have been as wiped as I felt finishing up. The important thing is it's doable!! If I could do it anyone can 🙌 and this is definitely a view to experience

This trail was amazing to hike. Pictures can not give it justice. You have to view it in person. The hike itself is a moderate hike. It's all uphill one direction and down the other. The trail is part of the AT (Appalachian Trail). There is an easier/shorter route for the hike if you take the fire road and tie back into the trial. The hike it's self is 3.9 miles one way; to the view point, and 3.9 miles back out. As for parking, it was a bit of struggle at first. We were not aware that the parking lot was still unavailable to park in. There is a switch back side street next to the parking lot. You can park on the shoulder there, but parking fills up fast. There is an option to park off of I-81 exit 140 in the park and ride and take the shuttle up. The shuttle does run hourly, and at this time, it is $10 per person round trip. The trail itself is dog friendly, but I highly recommend watching them when at the peak of McAfee Knob.

Great hike, 4 hrs total. At the top we were greeted by a wonderful volunteer, Bill who took our pictures!!!

McAfee Knob has some of the best views this country has to offer in the way of hiking. Be careful if winds are high. This trail offers a true hiking trails as well as an easy fire road route. This trail is part of Virginia's Triple Crown hikes.

Very rewarding hike!! It is At least 2 hours each way, 8 miles in total, and with an elevation of 1,700 feet, yet it is totally worth it. There are two parallel trails, the Fire Road (easier, flat) and the Appalachian Trail (harder, steeper, nicer view and trail). We go up by the AT and down by the Fire Road. There is a shuttle service from different places since the parking spots are very limited near the entrance of the trail, the shuttle needs to be booked online in advance.

Get there early and make the hike before sunrise. You won't be disappointed. A bit difficult in the dark so bring a good flashlight. The view is breathtaking and was worth it.