Appalachian Trail West of I-77

Type of Outing: Hike
When: SAT 11/14/2026 9:00 AM
Signup Deadline: 11/13/2026 5:00 pm
Leader: John Casey
Distance: 11 miles
Difficulty: R-28, Moderate
Intended Pace: Medium
Elevation Gain: 1700 ft.
Description: Every time we've made the drive from Wisconsin to NC in the past several years I've been struck by the beauty of Virginia when we come out of the East River Mountain Tunnel. This hike is in that area just west of I-77 traversing Appalachian trail miles 592 to 586.5 out and back. Compared with the AllTrails hike listed below it stops a mile short, skipping the 500' descent to Laurel Creek and the climb back up. You can put this address into Google Maps to find the parking area: Brushy Mountain Outpost, 2299 N Scenic Hwy, Bland, VA 24315. Car-pooling will be encouraged. www.alltrails.com/trail/us/virginia/appalachian-trail-kimberling-creek-to-laurel-creek
Required Gear: Water, Lunch, Jacket/Raingear, Poles if desired