Posted in Virginia May 08, 2020 by

The Most-Photographed Lookout On The Appalachian Trail Is Right Here In Virginia

If you consider yourself to be a hiking enthusiast, chances are you’ve traveled at least a few miles of the famous Appalachian Trail. Stretching from Georgia to Maine, this 2,200-mile trek passes through the mountains of Virginia. Some would argue, in fact, that the Virginia portion of the trail is the most iconic. After all, Virginia is home to 544 Appalachian Trail miles — that’s more than any other state. Moreover, the most famous view of the trail is McAfee Knob. For those who have experienced this famous overlook in person, it’s no mystery why.

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McAfee Knob is located just outside of Roanoke, Virginia, and can be accessed via the Appalachian Trail.
B Vrtacnik / AllTrails
For those looking to experience this famous view of the trail, the 7.5-mile out-and-back trail isn't easy but is by all accounts worth the effort.
Gronkca / flickr
This challenging day trip adventure culminates in one of the best views in Virginia: McAfee Knob. This Blue Ridge Mountain view is the poster child of the Appalachian Trail.
Blair Micheli / AllTrails
Hikers love the view for many reasons, most notably because of the 270-degree view of the surrounding landscape.
Geoff Livingston / flickr
The view offers an unparalleled perspective of Catawba Valley, North Mountain, Tinker Cliffs, and the Roanoke Valley.
Brett Maurer / Getty Images
The vista is named for James McAfee, a Scotch-Irish immigrant who moved to the Catawba Valley in the 1700s.
Justin Ziegmont / AllTrails
Today, the overlook welcomes nearly 60,000 visitors per year and is understandably one of the most popular hikes in Virginia.
Chloe Muro / flickr
In 2015, the McAfee Knob Task Force was founded to maintain the trails and surrounding area. In one year alone, the group of dedicated volunteers hauled away over 50 gallons of trash. If you visit this Virginia landmark, it's your duty to respect wildlife by leaving no trace.

Have you hiked to McAfee Knob before? If so, we’d love to hear all about your experience there! For some less-traveled hikes in Virginia, be sure to check out this lesser-known trail.

Address: McAfee Knob, Catawba, VA 24175, USA