History Hike at Rock Castle Gorge

Join retired National Park Ranger, Mike Ryan, author of the book, Life in Rock Castle, Virginia—In Their Own Words, for a History Hike at Rock Castle Gorge on Saturday, August 25, 9:30 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Walking through the dense forest of Rock Castle Gorge visitors might easily believe they are the first persons to traverse these quiet hollows. To the contrary—more than a century ago this land was bustling with the sounds of gristmills grinding, sawmills sawing, and wagon-loads of American chestnuts being driven down the mountain on the winding Rock Castle Road. This place, named for naturally occurring stone formations, would eventually through hard work and perseverance, become home to hundreds of stalwart, rugged individuals. Today among the reclaimed lush forested land, are not only the ruins of the homes and the mills, but the rich stories of those inhabitants long gone.

Meet at the old Rocky Knob Cabins off of Woodbury Rd near milepost 174. Bring water, your lunch or snacks and wear footgear for stream crossings for this 5 mile, one-way trip. The hike will end at the CCC camp lower trail access off Route 8. Shuttles will be available for drivers, or you may set up your own shuttle, or continue on the trail and hike back to the top. Call the National Park Service Visitor Contact Station at (540) 745-9662 for more information. The hike will be offered again on Saturday, September 29.