McAfee Knob – Appalachian Trail

Distance: 8.8 miles Elevation Gain: 1700 ft Difficulty: Strenuous Type: Out-and-Back Surface: Natural Activity: Hiking Best Season: Year-round Typical Time: 5-7 hours Fee: $3 parking fee (trailhead lot) Dogs: True Permit: False

McAfee Knob holds the distinction of being the most photographed location on the entire Appalachian Trail. The iconic overhanging sandstone ledge at 3197 feet, with hikers perched at its tip against a backdrop of the Catawba Valley and Tinker Mountain, has appeared in countless AT memoirs, magazines, and social media feeds. The 8.8-mile out-and-back route departs from the Catawba Trailhead on VA-311.

The trail follows the AT northbound through several distinct forest types, passing a wildlife pond at Pig Farm Camp approximately halfway up, a reliable water source. The final approach along the Catawba Mountain ridge delivers the first views westward before the dramatic lookout point materializes at the knob itself. The overhanging ledge extends several feet beyond the cliff base, requiring care but no technical skill to access.

Two additional overlooks flank the main knob, each offering slightly different perspectives on Catawba Valley and the surrounding ridges. The descent retraces the same route. This section of the AT in the McAfee Knob-Dragons Tooth-Tinker Cliffs area forms the Triple Crown of Virginia AT hikes. The trailhead parking area has been expanded due to overwhelming demand and fills by mid-morning on weekends. No camping is permitted at the knob itself. Restrooms are at the parking area.