About this place

War Spur Loop is an easy trail through the Mountain Lake Wilderness that treats hikers to a wide variety of plant life and an outstanding view. Most hikers travel the loop counter-clockwise, following the Salt Pond Mountain ridge to the overlook. In spring, you'll see an array of wildflowers, rhododendron blooms, and flame azaleas. In fall, you'll be surrounded by the colorful foliage and giant ferns. The overlook offers views of the Mountain Lake Wilderness, Johns Creek Mountain, and the valley below. On the return hike to the trailhead, you will walk through a rhododendron thicket and pass a number of large spruce, oak, and hemlock. Shortly before arriving at the trailhead, the War Branch Connector Trail heads north linking War Spur Loop to the Appalachian Trail and then on to Wind Rock overlook. From Blacksburg, VA: Follow US 460 west for 6.5 miles. Turn right on Mountain Lake Road (SR 700). Travel 3.5 miles past Mountain Lake Hotel. War Spur Trailhead is on the right.