McAfee Knob
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McAfee Knob is a rocky overlook on Catawba Mountain along the Appalachian Trail in Virginia, known for its broad views across the Catawba and Roanoke valleys. Reaching the ledge takes a strenuous day hike, so plan for several hours on the trail—and check official parking, shuttle and trail information before setting out.[1]
The view and the hike
From the summit, the overlook opens toward the Catawba Valley and North Mountain to the west, Tinker Cliffs to the north, and the Roanoke Valley to the east. The knob stands at about 3,197 feet and is part of the Appalachian National Scenic Trail.[2][3]
From the Route 311 trailhead, the hike is roughly 7.5 to 8 miles round trip, with a sustained climb and an estimated four to six hours for many hikers. Trail-mileage estimates vary slightly among local sources, so allow extra time and check a current map before you go. The route follows white blazes north on the Appalachian Trail; at the overlook, use caution around steep drop-offs.[4][5]
Trailhead, parking and shuttle
The main trailhead is on Route 311 atop Catawba Mountain. From its parking area, cross Route 311 carefully using the pedestrian bridge to reach the Appalachian Trail. Parking is limited, and Roanoke County warns visitors not to park on Route 311 or the adjoining side street; illegally parked vehicles may be towed.[6]
A seasonal shuttle serves the trailhead. Its operating days, season, stops, fares, reservations and availability can change, so check the official county or shuttle pages for current details before traveling. Roanoke County and local trail organizations also describe alternate daytime parking options, including the Catawba Sustainability Center; these alternatives involve a longer hike, and overnight parking is not permitted at the center.[7][8]
Prepare for the outing
Wear sturdy walking shoes or boots and bring water, food, a map, extra clothing and a flashlight. Roanoke County describes the route as moderately challenging and recommends planning for a four-to-six-hour hike. Weekend and holiday trailhead parking can fill early; a weekday visit may be less crowded.[9][10]
Stay on the marked trail and pack out all trash. Camping and campfires are restricted to designated locations along this Appalachian Trail section; camping or fires at the knob itself are prohibited. Dogs must be leashed on the trail, according to the Roanoke Appalachian Trail Club. Check current official rules and alerts before your hike.[11][12]
Nearby hikes
McAfee Knob is one of three well-known hikes commonly grouped as Virginia’s Triple Crown, alongside Dragon’s Tooth and Tinker Cliffs. The Roanoke Appalachian Trail Club maintains this section of the Appalachian Trail and provides maps, parking guidance and trail-planning information for the area.[13]
Related books: Browse related Virginia books on Amazon
References
- ↑ McAfee Knob, Roanoke County, Virginia. Retrieved October 24, 2026.
- ↑ McAfee Knob, Roanoke County, Virginia. Retrieved October 24, 2026.
- ↑ McAfee Knob, Virginia's Blue Ridge, Visit Virginia's Blue Ridge. Retrieved October 24, 2026.
- ↑ McAfee Knob, Roanoke County, Virginia. Retrieved October 24, 2026.
- ↑ McAfee Knob and Virginia’s Triple Crown, Roanoke Appalachian Trail Club. Retrieved October 24, 2026.
- ↑ McAfee Knob, Roanoke County, Virginia. Retrieved October 24, 2026.
- ↑ McAfee Knob, Virginia's Blue Ridge, Visit Virginia's Blue Ridge. Retrieved October 24, 2026.
- ↑ McAfee Knob and Virginia’s Triple Crown, Roanoke Appalachian Trail Club. Retrieved October 24, 2026.
- ↑ McAfee Knob, Roanoke County, Virginia. Retrieved October 24, 2026.
- ↑ McAfee Knob and Virginia’s Triple Crown, Roanoke Appalachian Trail Club. Retrieved October 24, 2026.
- ↑ McAfee Knob and Virginia’s Triple Crown, Roanoke Appalachian Trail Club. Retrieved October 24, 2026.
- ↑ McAfee Knob, Virginia's Blue Ridge, Visit Virginia's Blue Ridge. Retrieved October 24, 2026.
- ↑ McAfee Knob and Virginia’s Triple Crown, Roanoke Appalachian Trail Club. Retrieved October 24, 2026.