Tinker’s Cliff
On November 6th, 2009, I hiked Tinker’s Cliff. I have wanted to hike this trail since I saw it from McAfee’s Knob. As I started this hike I crossed through Catawba Creek and meadow which was separated by barbed wire and fences. I assumed I was crossing through someone’s personal property so I tread carefully in respect of their grounds. I crossed through a stretch of cow pasture and watched out for the cow dung. Along with the pasture, I walked along pleasant rushing streams and I could see the mountain looming in the distance.
As I continued my ascent I saw few no trespassing signs along the way and a cement factory. The trail gradually got steeper through dense forest. I passed through two steep hills but the climbs were not too lengthy. After these uphill spurts, the trail became more gradual in its ascent. But as you get closer to the top, it was followed by turns and twists which was a steady uphill climb all the way to the top of cliffs. From the top I could see a breathtaking view of the valley and McAfee’s Knob. I strongly encourage anyone to explore this long stretch of limestone cliffs. Click here for more photos…
Wooden Bridge across the creek
Another view from top
Kelly’s Knob
Here in my first blog, I am trying to recall my first hiking experience. As I was going over my photo albums, I realized Kelly’s Knob was technically my first hike. I went there on September 19th, 2009, with a few friends from my department. I personally prefer hiking early in the morning. I think that it is the best time of day – less crowded, fresh air and the weather is cooler, better than sweating in the scorching afternoon heat.
As we were driving on Route 106 for several miles through farms, I could not resist the view. The sky was blue, clear and crisp all set with beautiful puffy white clouds moving across the mountains – it was a perfect day for my first hike.
As I recall, the starting point was pretty foggy and steep, but after 20-30 minutes it leveled off. We followed the white blazes on the trees to a large rock outcrop and a nice view. It only took us 45 minutes to get to the knob. Once we got up there, we could see a beautiful view of the surrounding mountains along with Blacksburg. I also saw couple of places to camp as well. Overall, it was well worth effort. I would rate this hike easy to mediocre, good to make you sweat for a little bit.
As my first hike, I do not want to say this experience was life changing but it really got me more interested in exploring beautiful mountains and trails in Virginia. Click here for more photos…
View from top
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As I recall, the starting point was pretty foggy and very steep, but after 25-30 minutes it leveled off. We followed the white blazes on the trees to a large rock outcrop and a nice view. It only took us 45 minutes to get to the knob. Once we got up there, we could see a beautiful view of the surrounding mountains along with Blacksburg. I also saw couple of places to camp as well. Overall, it was well worth effort. I would rate this hike easy to mediocre, good to make you sweat for a little bit.
As my first hike, I do not want to say this experience was life changing but it really got me more interested in exploring beautiful mountains and trails in Virginia.
Hitchhiker's Guide to the Outdoors 