McAfee Knob
Iconic Appalachian Trail rock ledge offering breathtaking 270-degree panoramic views. A must-do moderate hike in Virginia.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat crowds & catch sunrise
McAfee Knob
Best Time
Beat crowds & catch sunrise
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic Appalachian Trail rock ledge offering breathtaking 270-degree panoramic views. A must-do moderate hike in Virginia.
"McAfee Knob has some of the best views this country has to offer in the way of hiking."
🚗 Shuttle Service Available
A shuttle service from I-81 Exit 140 can save you parking hassles, especially on busy weekends.
💧 Hydration is Key!
Carry ample water and snacks; there are no services on the 8-mile round trip trail.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Rock Ledge
Summit of McAfee Knob
A natural rock outcropping offering breathtaking 270-degree panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and mountains.
Sunrise Spectacle
Summit of McAfee Knob
Witnessing the sunrise from this vantage point is an unforgettable experience, painting the sky with vibrant colors.
+1
Appalachian Trail Section
McAfee Knob Summit
Experience a piece of the legendary Appalachian Trail, known as one of its most photographed sections.
Fire Road Alternative
Trail to McAfee Knob
An easier, less strenuous route that still leads to the stunning summit views, perfect for a more relaxed hike.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds: Timing is Key
Hike Smart: Gear Up for the Trail
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Shuttle Service Available
A shuttle service from I-81 Exit 140 can save you parking hassles, especially on busy weekends.
💧 Hydration is Key!
Carry ample water and snacks; there are no services on the 8-mile round trip trail.
👟 Sturdy Footwear Needed
The trail is moderate with elevation gain; good hiking boots are essential for comfort and safety.
🔦 Sunrise Hike Essentials
If hiking for sunrise, a reliable flashlight is crucial for navigating the trail in the dark.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Shuttle Service Available
A shuttle service from I-81 Exit 140 can save you parking hassles, especially on busy weekends.
💧 Hydration is Key!
Carry ample water and snacks; there are no services on the 8-mile round trip trail.
👟 Sturdy Footwear Needed
The trail is moderate with elevation gain; good hiking boots are essential for comfort and safety.
🔦 Sunrise Hike Essentials
If hiking for sunrise, a reliable flashlight is crucial for navigating the trail in the dark.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Trail
Well-behaved dogs are welcome, but keep them leashed and watch them closely at the summit.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise McAfee Knob for its breathtaking panoramic views and its status as a highlight of the Appalachian Trail. The hike is considered moderate and rewarding, with many recommending an early start for sunrise or to avoid crowds. Some find the parking challenging, but the shuttle service offers a viable alternative.
"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."
Emran Ahmed
"I did plenty of research on parking situation before I went there it turned out that there were a few open parking spots right at the trailhead when I arrived on a Thursday mid morning. You do not need to be shuttled at least not on weekdays. When I returned to the trailhead after the hike there were even more open spots there. The hike wasn’t too strenuous the first half was kinda flat. I did all the hiking in less than 3 hrs(1.5 hrs up 1.25 hrs down). There were quite some people up there when I got to the top you might want to chill and wait to get your pics taken but you will get them. The views are beautiful."
David Li
"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."
Logan Moubray
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The primary trailhead is located off VA-311 in Catawba, Virginia. For those seeking to avoid parking issues, consider using the shuttle service from the park and ride at I-81 Exit 140.
Yes, there is a parking lot at the VA-311 trailhead, but it fills up quickly, especially on weekends. Parking on the shoulder of a nearby side street is an option, but also limited.
McAfee Knob is approximately a 30-40 minute drive from Roanoke, Virginia. Follow I-81 North to Exit 140 and then follow signs for VA-311.
Yes, a shuttle service operates from the park and ride at I-81 Exit 140 to the trailhead. It's a great option to avoid parking challenges.
McAfee Knob is located on the Appalachian Trail in Catawba, Virginia, part of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no tickets required to hike McAfee Knob. It is a public trail accessible to all.
The trail is open 24/7 as it's part of the Appalachian Trail. However, for sunrise hikes, it's best to start 2.5-3 hours before dawn.
There is no entrance fee for McAfee Knob itself. The only potential cost is for the shuttle service if you choose to use it.
While dispersed camping is generally allowed along the Appalachian Trail, it's recommended to check local regulations. The nearest designated campgrounds are outside the immediate trailhead area.
Information on booking the shuttle can usually be found through local tourism websites or by checking for updates on the official McAfee Knob Trailhead Shuttle service.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The McAfee Knob hike is considered moderate. It's an 8-mile round trip with about 1,700 feet of elevation gain, with the first half being relatively flat and the second half more strenuous.
The hike typically takes between 4 to 6 hours round trip for most hikers. Fit individuals might complete it in 3-5 hours, while others may take up to 8 hours.
McAfee Knob offers stunning 270-degree panoramic views of the Catawba Valley, North Mountain, Tinker Cliffs, and the Roanoke Valley. It's one of the most photographed spots on the Appalachian Trail.
Yes, you can find McAfee Knob trail maps on various hiking websites and apps like AllTrails. Searching for 'McAfee Knob trail map' will provide several options.
While hiking, you might encounter various wildlife. Keep an eye out for deer, birds, and other forest creatures. Always maintain a safe distance.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The trailhead is in a more rural area. For dining options, you'll need to drive back towards Roanoke or nearby towns like Salem or Troutville, which offer various restaurants.
No, there are no food vendors or facilities on the McAfee Knob trail. It's essential to pack all your own snacks and meals.
Pack high-energy snacks like trail mix, energy bars, fruit, and sandwiches. Ensure you have plenty of water, as it's an 8-mile hike.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for photography. Golden hour provides soft, warm light, while sunrise can capture stunning colors over the valley.
The unique rock ledge formation and the expansive 270-degree panoramic views make it incredibly photogenic. It's consistently ranked as one of the most photographed spots on the Appalachian Trail.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the panoramic vistas. A tripod can be helpful for low-light conditions, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check with the National Forest Service or local authorities regarding drone operation in the area to ensure compliance.
The main rock ledge is the prime spot. For different perspectives, explore slightly off the main path (safely) or capture the trail leading up to the summit.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key tips for families: Pack plenty of snacks and water, as there are no facilities on the trail. Make it an adventure by pointing out interesting plants and wildlife. Consider starting early to avoid the midday heat and crowds. Leashed dogs are welcome, which can add to the fun for families with furry members.
💰 Budget Travelers
To save money, consider carpooling if you're traveling with friends. If parking is an issue, research the cost of the shuttle service beforehand. Packing your own food and drinks is significantly cheaper than trying to find dining options nearby, which are limited.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
For the best shots, aim for sunrise or sunset to take advantage of the golden hour light. A wide-angle lens is highly recommended to encompass the vastness of the landscape. Consider bringing a tripod for stable shots in low light conditions. Be prepared for crowds, especially at popular times, and be patient to get your perfect shot.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The McAfee Knob Hike: Trail Options and Difficulty
For those seeking a less strenuous option, the fire road route offers an alternative. This path is wider and generally less steep, providing a more gradual ascent to the summit. While it might be slightly longer or require a short tie-in to the main AT, it's a great choice for families or hikers who prefer a gentler climb. Regardless of the chosen path, proper footwear and adequate hydration are crucial for a comfortable experience.
McAfee Knob difficulty is often described as moderate, but it's important to consider your own fitness level. The 8-mile distance combined with the elevation gain means it's not a casual stroll. Many hikers report taking between 4 to 8 hours to complete the round trip, depending on their pace and how long they spend enjoying the views at the top.
Experiencing Sunrise at McAfee Knob
+2Sunrise hikes require careful planning. Ensure you have a reliable flashlight or headlamp to navigate the trail safely in the dark. The trail can be uneven, so take your time and be aware of your surroundings. While the hike is more challenging in the dark, the reward of witnessing the dawn from such an iconic viewpoint is widely considered worth the effort.
It's important to note that even for sunrise hikes, the trail can still see moderate foot traffic, especially on weekends. While you might beat some of the daytime crowds, you'll likely encounter other early risers eager for the same breathtaking experience.
Parking and Shuttle Services
To alleviate parking woes, a McAfee Knob Trailhead Shuttle service has been implemented. This shuttle typically operates from a park and ride lot located off I-81 Exit 140. This service provides a convenient and stress-free way to access the trailhead, especially if you're visiting during a busy period. It's advisable to check the current operating hours and fees for the shuttle service before your visit.
If you decide to drive and park at the trailhead, arriving very early in the morning, even before dawn, significantly increases your chances of securing a spot. Weekdays generally offer better parking availability compared to weekends.
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