Motorists traveling on the 469-mile Blue Ridge Parkway may find keeping their eyes on the road difficult. The park consists of 82,000 acres of federal land including more than 120 trails spanning through the vast Appalachian Trail and the Mountains to Sea Trail. Within these diverse offerings, hikers up for a shorter trek can enjoy the Stuart’s Knob Trail, while grabbing a view of Fairy Stone Lake in Virginia.
Stuart’s Knob Trail System is one of two trail systems located in Fairy Stone State Park, along with this Virginia Historical Marker. Erected in 2000 by the Virginia Department of Historic Resources, it replaced a marker predating 1941.
The rugged, tree-lined trail is connected by two loops: Upper Stuart’s Knob Trail, a 0.73-mile steep loop offering views of Fairy Stone Lake; and the 0.24-mile Lower Stuart’s Knob Trail, presenting an overlook with a view of Bull Mountain.
Access to the Upper and Lower Stuart’s Knob Trail loops is provided through two trails.
The Iron Mine Trail offers glimpses into history, with a spur trail leading to an abandoned iron ore mine barricaded by iron bars. Ringing the base of Stuart’s Knob, the Whiskey Run Trail passes through secluded woods, also showcasing mining remains.
The trail is described as very short with a very steep climb, earning a rating of difficult. With its brief distance, hikers might plan for a couple of hours, depending on their abilities.
The Upper Stuart’s Knob Trail loop is more difficult than the shorter loop, with a narrower, steeper terrain cutting sharply from one direction to the other.
Seating and a nice view are part of the lower loop’s features, giving the senses a treat during a well-deserved break.
Regardless of the physical challenges the trail might bring, breathtaking beauty is a constant in the 4,741-acre park.
Have you been to Stuart’s Knob Trail in Virginia? How was your experience hiking there? Let us know in the comments! For related content, read more about the iconic Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia.
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