About this place

Beginning at the small parking area at Blackhorse Gap, the trail heads northeast, paralleling the Blue Ridge Parkway to Bearwallow Gap. For those looking for a short day hike, the Appalachian Trail is accessible at several points through this stretch. (However, horses are prohibited anywhere on the Appalachian National Scenic Trail.) A series of developed parking areas serve as junctions for the trail, as well as picturesque overlooks for passing vehicles. Harvey's Knob, a particularly popular overlook for birding, lies a few miles north on the trail. From Bedford take State Route 43 north to Peaks of Otter. Turn left on Parkway (this is also State Route 43 north). Go 5 miles and take right on State Route 43 north where it turns off of the Parkway. Turn left on State Route 625. Parking is 0.3 miles on the left.