ways to explore high knob > WEEKEND ADVENTURE ITINERARY 5 > SEASONAL ADVENTURE GUIDES PLUS HIGH KNOB ADVENTURE RESOURCE GUIDE Get to know Norton
Welcome to Norton, Virginia! Nestled beneath High Knob, the highest point in the Cumberland Mountains, Norton is the smallest city in the Commonwealth of Virginia with a population of just under 4,000. Outdoor highlights include a thousand-acre city park, Flag Rock Flag Rock, pictured above, is one of the most Recreation Area, and the city’s close recognized landmarks in the City of Norton. proximity to the Jefferson National The rock outcrop is located in Flag Rock Recreation Area, a city park that offers a Forest. variety of outdoor adventures.
We hope this guide will help you plan your adventures in Norton and the High Knob Region.
Spanning three counties, each of the 10 communities in the High Knob Region offers a unique experience that celebrates the strong and storied cultures of these former coal and agriculture towns and counties while also embracing new economic avenues, including growing an outdoor economy aimed at making the region a better place to live, work, and play.
We invite you to Get Outside in Norton and our neighboring High Knob communities. This guide highlights the region’s outdoor recreation sites and other attractions, including restaurants, entertainment venues, festivals, and events.
The region has more than 100 miles of hiking trails, a growing mountain biking scene, a variety of rivers, streams, and lakes to fish and paddle, and miles of clifflines ripe for climbing and bouldering.
If wanting to explore on your own, this guide offers some basic information for select trails and recreation sites, but we also invite you to contact the region’s outfitters listed on page 56 of the Adventure Resource Guide if needing to rent gear or if wanting a guided trip.
For more information on Norton and the High Knob Region, visit us at www.explorenortonva.com and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
Flag Rock Area Trails 1 2 In this guide...
Get Outside in Norton: Wanderlove Weekend Escape 5
Get Outside in Norton: 5 Spring Adventures 9
Get Outside in Norton: 5 Summer Adventures 13
Get Outside in Norton: 5 Fall Adventures 17
Get Outside in Norton: 4 Winter Adventures 21
Get to Know High Knob: Adventure Resource Guide 27
Flag Rock Recreation Area
3 Powell River Trail Empty Bottle String Band, High Knob Outdoor Fest Powell Valley Overlook 4 high knob Weekend Escape
Searching for Weekend Escape: High Elevation Views Afternoon Adventure: High Knob a weekend Explore High Knob Observation Tower and Jefferson National Forest. outdoor Sunrise Sightseeing: Flag Rock Spend the morning exploring Flag Rock Recreation Area, escape? Find a city park located three miles above downtown Norton o Visit the High Knob Observation Tower. Located atop your High Knob on the lower slopes of High Knob. the 4,200-foot High Knob summit and five miles above downtown Norton, enjoy views of distant peaks as far Adventure away as Great Smoky Mountains National Park and West o Visit Flag Rock Overlook. Enjoy sweeping views of with these trip Virginia. downtown Norton and beyond. suggestions. o Hike to High Knob Recreation Area. A one-mile trail (also o Want to work for your view? Climb the 1.3-mile Legion Also see the start of the almost 19-mile Chief Benge Scout Trail) Park Trail into Flag Rock Recreation Area. Norton’s travels from the High Knob Tower parking lot to this U.S. Forest Service site. outdoor o Snap a photo with the city’s “Woodbooger” statue as you walk the gravel footpath to the overlook. recreation o Take the scenic route back to Norton on the Thomas Jefferson Scenic Byway Loop. Note: This route includes webpage for o Get your heart pumping. Hike or mountain bike the gravel roads that might not be suitable for some vehicles. Flag Rock Area Trails system, paddle the city’s 9.8-acre more ideas. Some Forest Service roads may also be gated or Upper Reservoir, or boulder/climb the recreation area’s impassable during winter months. sandstone cliffs and boulders.
o Eat dinner in downtown Norton. See Adventure o Fish the city’s Upper and Lower Reservoirs. The Upper Resource Guide page 29 for restaurants in Norton and Reservoir is a state-stocked trout fishery that also has neighboring communities. catfish and bass. Evening Escape: Catch a sunset Flag Rock Overlook, pictured here, offers great o Head to downtown Norton for lunch. See High Knob Check out these overlooks for exceptional sunsets. views of downtown Norton, Powell Valley, and Adventure Resource Guide page 29 for restaurants in neighboring Kentucky. The overlook is a great Norton and neighboring communities. spot to catch a sunset in the High Knob Region. o Powell Valley Overlook: Located on U.S. 23 North
between Big Stone Gap and Norton, this overlook has sweeping views of the valley between Powell and Little 5 Stone Mountains. 6 o High Knob Observation Tower: Standing atop the 4,200- foot High Knob summit, the tower is a great point to see a Southwest Virginia sunset. o Flag Rock Overlook: Resting at 3,200 feet in elevation, the overlook provides a rocky outcrop to sit and watch the sun slip below the horizon.
Overnight Stays o If seeking the great indoors, check out these hotels in Norton and the surrounding area. Also check out Airbnb for other options. o If wanting to camp, Flag Rock Recreation Area has an 18-site campground. See Norton’s campground webpage for details. Also check out other area campgrounds on page 53 of the Adventure Resource Guide.
Weekend Escape:
Lakes & Rivers High Knob Recreation Area Flag Rock Area Trails
SUNRISE SIGHTSEEING: Bark Camp inclement weather. Please contact the U.S. Forest Service’s Clinch Ranger Lake Loop District for more details at (276) 679-8370.
Take a hike. A 3.5-mile (round-trip) trail open to hiking afternoon adventure: and mountain biking circles the 61-acre Bark Camp Lake in Bark Camp Recreation Area. The trailhead for the Bark guest river gorge Camp Lake Loop Trail is located in Scott County, about 13 Spend the afternoon exploring the 5.5-mile Guest River Gorge Trail. miles from downtown Norton. This trail is on the Jefferson National Forest and is maintained by the U.S. Forest o This crushed gravel path travels along the Guest River to its confluence with the Clinch River. Gentle grades accompany the footpath, which is Service’s Clinch Ranger District. See the city’s Digital Trail Chief Benge Scout Trail Guides for a digital guided hike. The recreation area also characterized by giant sandstone cliffs that tower above the trail and offers a campground, fishing, and boating opportunities. bring the sound of the Guest River to a thunderous roar. The trail follows There is a $3 day use fee. the former route of the Interstate Railroad, which had a line that ran from Miller Yard near Dungannon to Coeburn. The trail is open to biking and foot Go Fish. The 61-acre Bark Camp Lake is stocked and traffic. See the city’s Digital Trail Guides for a digital guided hike. Clinch River Guest River Gorge Woodbooger Statue maintained by Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources. evening exploration: take the SCENIC driving ROUTE clinch river Spend the evening exploring the Clinch River in St. Paul. o Take the scenic route back to downtown Norton. o Grab a bite to eat in St. Paul. Take your food to A.R. Matthews Memorial o Travel Forest Road 993 (the approach road to Bark Park for a riverside picnic. Camp) back to its junction with State Route 822. Turn left. o If arriving in town early, check out Clinch Life Outfitters and Clinch River o At the State Route 822/State Route 699 intersection, Adventures. Both offer rentals and/or guided trips on the Clinch River. turn left. After a short time on SR 699, intersect SR 706. Turn left. o If seeking a late afternoon stroll, check out Clinch River State Park. The park’s St. Paul unit is open and has nine miles of trails. See Norton’s Digital o Follow SR 706 for about 1.2 miles and continue onto Trail Guides for a video guide of a 3.3-mile loop in the park. Forest Road 238. Stay on this road approximately 5 miles. Reach the approach road to the High Knob Observation Tower. Take a detour and visit the tower or continue on FR 238 for another half mile to its intersection with State Route 619. Turn right and stay on SR 619 almost four miles back to downtown Norton. Note: Some graveled roads might not be suitable for all vehicles. Some roads might also be impassable or closed during winter months due to 7 Norton Reservoir Guest River Gorge 8 spring 5adventures 1 High Knob Region Spring Festivals 2 high knob birding trails 3 high knob rails-to-trail walks 4 high knob running races
High Knob Lake, pictured here, is a 4-acre lake in High Knob Recreation Area. high knob fishing spots The recreation area has a campground, hiking trails, and picnicking areas, 5 and the lake is open to fishing and canoeing/kayaking. high knobGet Festive. The High Knob Region boasts several spring festivals. The Gathering in the Gap Music Festival, held each May in Big Stone Gap, celebrates the traditions of old-time, bluegrass, and Americana music in the Appalachian region. The Dr. Ralph Stanley Hills of Home Festival, held in Coeburn each May, was started by the late Dr. Ralph Stanley and highlights old-time bluegrass music. spring The town of St. Paul has its annual Clinch River Days in early June celebrating the Clinch River, which runs through town. Go Birding. The High Knob Region has several sites along the Virginia Bird and Wildlife Trail. Virginia Department of Wlidlife Resources offers several loops that pinpoint where you might be escapes able to view particular bird species. Check out the Appalachian Wonders, Big Stone Gap, Daniel Boone, Lonesome Pine, and Saint Warmer weather, sunshine, and wildflowers are some of Paul loops for birding sites within 45 minutes or less of Norton. the hallmarks we love most about spring in the High Knob Region. Check out some of our favorite springtime activities Explore a Rails-to-Trails. Two former railbeds and events. transformed into trails offer beautiful spring views. The Guest River Gorge in Coeburn, a 20-minute drive from Norton, is 5.5 miles and travels along the Guest River to its confluence with the Clinch River. The Powell River Trail in Appalachia, also a 20-minute drive from Norton, is a 1.7-mile mostly paved trail that travels along the Powell River on the abandoned L&N Railroad line. Finally, while not a rails-to-trail, the Cranesnest Trail, about 26 miles from Norton, offers a 3.5-mile multi-use graveled trail that parallels the Cranesnest River.
Go Run: Three spring races showcase High Knob’s natural wonders and communities. In March, the towns of Big Stone Gap and Appalachia host the Union Half Marathon, which travels through both towns, including Big Stone Gap’s scenic Greenbelt and Appalachia’s Powell River Powell River Trail Trail. In April, Natural Tunnel State Park, near Duffield, hosts the Run The Tunnel, a 3.8-mile road/trail run. In May, Norton hosts the Fit Farmer 12K Trail Run on the city’s Flag Rock Area Trails system.
Go Fish. Love fishing? Check out these state-stocked trout fisheries near Norton. Also see Norton’s website and the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources’ (DWR) website for more fishing sites in the surrounding High Knob Region and beyond.
o NORTON RESERVOIR. The 9.8-acre Norton Reservoir is a state-stocked trout water. Stocking occurs annually between Oct. 1 and May 15. A DWR trout license is required during this timeframe.
o HIGH KNOB LAKE. This 4-acre lake is in High Knob Recreation Area on the Jefferson National Forest. A DWR fishing license and National Forest Permit are required.
o BIG STONY CREEK. This special regulation trout water is catch-and- release. Includes portion of Big Stony Creek (Mountain Fork) and its tributaries in the Jefferson National Forest from the High Knob Lake outlet downstream to confluence of Chimney Rock Fork and Big Stony Creek.
o CLEAR CREEK. Located just outside downtown Norton, Clear Creek is Fit Farmer 12K Trail Run stocked with rainbow trout three times a year between Oct. 1 and April 30. Trilliums cover the hillside in Clinch River State Park. A DWR trout license is required between Oct. 1-June 15. A National Forest Permit is also required. 11 12 summmer 5adventures 1 High Knob Region Summer Festivals 2 High Knob Picnics 3 shop fresh: Farmers Markets 4 enjoy The show
high knob lakes & Rivers Powell Valley Overlook, pictured here, offers expansive views of 5 the valley between Powell Mountain and Little Stone Mountain. high knob summer escapes estivals, camping, and river trips are some of the hallmarks we love most about summer in the High Knob Region. Check out Fsome of our favorite summer activities and events below. Get Festive.The High Knob Region boasts several summer festivals. Norton’s Best Friend Festival, held in June, is a weeklong festival packed with festivities for the whole family. The High Knob Music Festival, a daylong music festival in High Knob Recreation Area, and the Virginia- Kentucky District Fair, a more than 100-year old festival held in Wise County, are also held in June. Fans of barbecue should check out the annual Chillin’ and Grillin’ In The Glades barbecue contest in downtown Wise in July. If searching for outdoor adventures, check out the High Knob Outdoor Fest in downtown Norton in August. Closing out the summer are two festivals celebrating two High Knob communities. Appalachia’s Appalachia Coal/Railroad Days is in August and Coeburn’s Guest River Rally is held over Labor Day weekend.
Enjoy a picnic. Beat the heat and get take-out from a Norton restaurant for a picnic in Flag Rock Recreation Area or High Knob Bluebell Island, St. Paul Recreation Area. Consider turning your picnic into a campout. Both recreation areas have campgrounds. Flag Rock Campground is typically open April-October and High Knob Recreation Area campground late May- late September. Note: The High Knob Campground is currently closed for water system repairs.
shop fresh, shop local. The Norton Friends and Farmers Market is one of several farmers markets in the High Knob Region. Held 4-6 p.m. on Tuesdays, June-September, the market offers a variety of fresh produce, baked goods, dairy products, and crafts. Other farmers markets include Big Stone Gap, Wise, and Clinch River Farmer’s Market in St. Paul. Norton Farmers Market enjoy the show. Searching for a way to enjoy the great outdoors while catching a movie or staged drama? Be sure to visit the Central Drive- in Theatre just outside Norton or travel to neighboring Big Stone Gap for a summer viewing of the Trail of the Lonesome Pine Outdoor Drama, the official outdoor drama in Virginia based on the novel Trail of the Lonesome Pine by John Fox Jr.
make a splash. Explore the Clinch and Powell rivers or one of the region’s lakes/reservoirs. Need gear or want a guided trip? Check out the region’s outfitters: Stone Mountain Adventures and Pathfinders Outdoor Adventures in Norton, Clinch Life Adventures and Clinch River Adventures Flag Rock Campground Andrew Alli and Josh Small perform during in St. Paul, Iron Works Cycling in Big Stone Gap, or Clinch River Life in the 2019 High Knob Outdoor Fest. Duffield. 15 16 autumn 5 adventures 1 High Knob fall Festivals 2 High Knob running races 3 leaf peeping 4 Thomas’ Black bird Farm 5 mountain, Road, & Gravel biking high knob all foliage, cooler temperatures, and clear skies are some of the Fhallmarks we love most about fall in the High Knob Region. Check autumn out some of our favorite autumn activities and events
Get Festive. The Clinch Coalition holds its annual High Knob Naturalist Rally in late September, offering adventures educational experiences to explore the natural world of High Knob. The Dock Boggs/Kate O’Neill Peters Sturgill Music Festival is also in September at the Country Cabin II in Norton. Norton’s Woodbooger Fest, held in October in Flag Rock Recreation Area, celebrates the Woodbooger, a mythical Bigfoot-like creature. Two other October festivals that celebrate the region’s cultural offerings include theWise County Famous Fall Fling in Wise and Home Craft Days at Mountain Empire Community College in Big Stone Gap.
Go Run. Five fall running races showcase some of the natural wonders and communities in the High Knob Region. The City of Norton hosts the Mountain Fork Half Marathon in September. The High Knob Hellbender 10K follows in early October. Both races are part of the High Knob Triple Crown running series, which also includes the Fit Farmer 12K Trail Run in May. Also in October is the Cloudsplitter 100, an ultra-distance running race that travels trails in Norton and on the Jefferson National Forest. Two shorter road races include the Heart One Cardiac Rehab 5K in downtown Wise during the annual Wise County Famous Fall Fling and the Dairy Queen Flag Rock Area Trails Turkey Day 5K on Thanksgiving Day in downtown Norton.
Leaf Peeping. Drive the Thomas Jefferson Scenic Byway Loop. Check out Flag Rock Overlook, Powell Valley Overlook, and High Knob Observation Tower for some high elevation views of fall foliage. Take a hike on the Flag Rock Area Trails system or Chief Benge Scout Trail for close- ups of the changing leaves. Note: The Thomas Jefferson Scenic Byway Loop includes gravel roads that might not be suitable for some vehicles. Some Forest Service roads may also be gated or impassable during winter months.
Get Lost. Thomas’ Black Bird Farm, LLC, located just outside Mountain Fork Half Marathon downtown Norton, offers produce for sale and a corn maze in the fall. Follow the farm’s Facebook page for updates.
Go bike. Soak up the region’s fall color displays on two wheels. Check out the Flag Rock Area Trails system in Norton for a single-track adventure. Explore the Guest River Gorge Trail in Coeburn and the Powell River Trail in Appalachia. The Cranesnest Trail in Dickenson County is also a great graveled trail to explore on bike or foot. Road cyclists should check out the Benge’s Revenge Challenge road race in September. The race offers 25- and 75-mile options that traverse Norton, Wise and Lee counties. If wanting some higher elevation riding options, check out this Mountain Fork gravel ride and Maple Gap gravel ride. A gravel bike race is Little Stony Creek also held in early August, Gravelachia, that offers 90- and 45-mile gravel Little Stony National Recreation Trail rides on High Knob. 19 20 winter 4 adventures
1 Country Cabin II 2 LOVEworks displays 3 Winter hikes 4 polar plunge
The High Knob Observation Tower sits atop the 4,200-foot High Knob summit, the highest point in the Cumberland Mountains. high knobove snow? High Knob offers plenty. The mountain has some of the highest known Lannual snowfall amounts in the state of Virginia. There are also several low-elevation indoor and outdoor adventures the region offers winter during the colder winter months. Check out some of our favorite winter wonders below.
Country Cabin II. Catch a show at the Country Cabin II. The venue is the descendent of the Country Cabin, a small one-room log and stone structure that wonders was commissioned by President Roosevelt under the Works Progress Administration program in 1937. Country Cabin II sits across the road from its predecessor and hosts Saturday night concerts in addition to bus tours, dinner theater shows, fundraisers, weddings, and other parties.
find some love. Make plans to visit the LOVEworks signs on display in the High Knob Region.
• Country Cabin II in Norton • The Town of Coeburn • The Town of St. Paul/Western Front Hotel • Dickenson County Visitor Center
Take A Hike. Higher elevation hikes might not be as accessible during the winter months, but there are plenty of lower elevation winter walks. Check out these low elevation hikes in the High Knob Region:
LOVEworks sign, Country Cabin II • Legion Park Trail: This 1.3-mile trail climbs almost 1,000 feet from Legion Park just outside downtown Norton to Flag Rock Recreation Area. The trail connects to more than 10 miles of other hiking and mountain biking trails that are part of the city’s Flag Rock Area Trails system.
• Powell River Trail: This 1.7-mile paved rails-to-trail follows the Powell River and features two former trestles and two tunnels. The trail is in Appalachia, about a 20-minute drive from downtown Norton.
• Greenbelt Walking and Bicycle Trail: This almost 3-mile paved walking trail follows the Powell River and loops around downtown Big Stone Gap. Flag Rock Area Trails The trail is about a 20-minute drive from downtown Norton.
• Campus Trail System at the University of Virginia’s College at Wise: The college, located in the town of Wise, offers several short trails that highlight different parts of campus. The campus is about a 15-minute drive from downtown Norton.
• Guest River Gorge Trail: This is a 5.5-mile rails-to-trail just outside Coeburn follows the Guest River to its confluence with the Clinch River through a deep gorge that offers spectacular views. The trail is about a 20-minute drive from downtown Norton.
• Sugar Hill Loop Trail: This 3.3-mile trek is in the Clinch River State Park High Knob Observation Tower in the town of St. Paul. Highlights include grassy balds, an 18th century French settlement, and great views of the Clinch River. The trail is part of State Route 619 at the High Knob summit road. a nine-mile trail system. See the city’s Digital Trail Guides for a video trail 23 guide. The trail is about a 30-minute drive from downtown Norton. 24 • Natural Tunnel State Park: The park, located near Duffield in Scott County, has seven hiking trails that highlight the park’s unique features, including Lover’s Leap, Tunnel Hill, and Gorge Ridge. The park is about a 30-minute drive from downtown Norton.
• Lake Keokee: The 3.7-mile Keokee Loop Trail in Lee County travels around Lake Keokee, offering great scenery and long-range views across the lake along the way. See the city’s Digital Trail Guides for a video trail guide. The trail is about a 35-minute drive from downtown Norton.
• Bark Camp Lake Loop: This 3.5-mile loop trail in Scott County loops Bark Camp Lake in Bark Camp Recreation Area, a U.S. Forest Service recreation area. There is a $3 day use fee at the trailhead. See the city’s Digital Trail Guides for a video trail guide. The trailhead is about a 30-minute drive from downtown Norton.
TAKE THE PLUNGE. Check out the annual Polar Bear Obstacle Race in Big Stone Gap. The event features a 5K obstacle race and polar plunge at the finish line. FollowThe Gap Partnership for updates on the event.
Guest River Gorge
Snowy roadway, High Knob
25 Polar Bear Obstacle Race Legion Park Trail 26 adventure resource guide
1 restaurants & attractions
2 events & festivals 3 recreation sites
4 contact information
The High Knob Observation Tower sits atop the 4,200-foot High Knob summit, the highest point in the Cumberland Mountains. high knob eats & attractions ooking to refuel after hitting the trails? Check out these restaurants in downtown Norton and other High Knob Region communities. Click Lon the links to visit each restaurant’s webpage. downtown norton For a full list of restaurants and more details about those listed below, visit the city’s webpage.
• DoughMakers Pizza 725 Park Ave. NW, Norton (276) 679-1099
• Lincoln Road Coffee Lounge 736 Park Ave. NW, Norton (276) 365-2276
• Mi Finca Mexican Restaurant 987 Park Ave. NW, Norton (276) 679-3330
• Romano’s Italian Restaurant 999 Park Ave. SW, Norton (276) 679-1889 Lincoln Road Coffee Lounge • Sugar Hill Cidery 815 Park Ave. SW, Norton (276) 325-7313
• The Woodbooger Bar and Grill 921 Park Ave. SW, Norton (276) 325-0551
AppalachiA • Appalachian Mercantile 313 W. Main Street, Appalachia DoughMakers Pizza (276) 282-4336
big stone gap For a full list of restaurants and more details about those listed below, vist the town’s webpage.
• Country Kitchen 311 Wood Ave. East, Big Stone Gap (276) 524-6103
• Curklins Sugar Hill CIdery 314 Wood Ave., Big Stone Gap (276) 524-4983
Woodbooger Bar & Grill • Dari Delite 710 Shawnee Ave. E, Big Stone Gap 29 (276) 523-3921 30 high knob eats & attractions • Four Seasons Restaurant 231 E 5th St. S, Big Stone Gap (276) 523-4317
• Red Flower Chinese Restaurant 323 Wood Ave. E, Big Stone Gap (276) 523-2498
• The Big Stone Gap General Store and Cafe 215 Wood Ave. E, Big Stone Gap
• The Jasmine Cottage 305 Shawnee Ave. E, Big Stone Gap (276) 524-4325
• Ugly Mug 514 Wood Ave. E, Big Stone Gap (276) 523-7060
WISE For a full list of restaurants and more details about those listed below, vist the town’s webpage.
• El Dorado Grill 225 East Main St., Wise (276) 533-3175
• The Inn at Wise 110 E. Main St., Wise (276) 321-7600
• K&E Southern Sweets 332 East Main St., Wise (276) 321-7752
• Moon Dog 302 West Main St., Wise (276) 321-7452
• MountainRose Vineyard The vineyard/winery is located just outside Wise. 10439 Reservoir Road, Wise (276) 328-2013
• Piggy Went A Smokin BBQ 6868 Orby Cantrell Hwy., Wise (276) 321-7317
• Pizza King 308 West Main St., Wise Lincoln Road Coffee Lounge, (276) 328-1010 31 32 high knob eats & attractions • Roma’s Restaurant & Pizzeria 313 Church Street NE, Wise (276) 328-3714
Coeburn For a full list of restaurants and more details about those listed below, vist the town’s webpage.
• Crooked Road BBQ Company Coming soon in Coeburn. See below for restaurant’s Pound location. 9715 Orby Cantrell Hwy., Pound (276) 796-1061
• Frosty Bossie 314 Front St. E, Coeburn (276) 395-2083
• Mi Hacienda 509 Front Street E, Coeburn (276) 807-1552
St. Paul For a full list of restaurants and more details about those listed below, vist the town’s webpage.
•Amira Co Cafe 3024 4th Ave., St. Paul (276) 738-3041
• The Coffee Station 16610 Russell St., Suite 4, St. Paul (276) 237-2154
• Fat Boy’s BBQ 16601 Russell St., St. Paul (276) 455-1623
• Giovanni’s Pizza 3033 4th Ave., St. Paul (276) 762-9898
• Sugar Hill Brewing Co. 16622 Broad Street, St. Paul (276) 738-1088
Flag Rock Overlook, Norton 33 34 high knob eats & attractions ooking to learn more about the High Knob Region’s rich cultural history? Check out these museums and entertainment venues. L
NORTON • Country Cabin II This Crooked Road music venue has Saturday night concerts, hosts bus tours, dinner theater shows, fundraisers, weddings, and other parties. 6034 Kent Junction Rd., Norton (276) 679-3541
• Central Drive-In This drive-in movie theatre, located between Norton and the town of Appalachia, has been in operation since 1952 and can accomodate more than 400 vehicles. 5113 Kent Junction Rd., Norton (276) 679-3761
Big Stone Gap • John Fox Jr. Museum This Virginia Historic Landmark is a museum and memorial to the Fox family and was the home of John Fox Jr., author of The Trail of the Lonesome Pine. 117 Shawnee Avenue E., Big Stone Gap (276) 870-2604
• June Tolliver House The house, which is on the National and State Historic Landmark Registers, features antiques that date back to the turn of the century, as well as paintings donated by local artists, and an historic photo archive. 522 Clinton Ave. E., Big Stone Gap (276) 523-4707
• Lonesome Pine School and Heritage Center This museum highlights the history of Wise County’s schools. 511 Clinton Ave. E, Big Stone Gap (276) 523-1111
• Trail of the Lonesome Pine Outdoor Drama This play, based on the novel by John Fox Jr., is the Official Outdoor Drama of Virginia and one of the longest running outdoor dramas in the country. 518 Clinton Avenue E., Big Stone Gap (June Tolliver Playhouse) (276) 523-1235
• Southwest Virginia Museum The museum has more than 60,000 pieces and exhibits that highlight the exploration and development of Southwest Virginia from the pioneer era of the 1700s to the mining “boom and bust” era of the late 1800s. 10 West First St., Big Stone Gap (276) 523-1322 Country Cabin II 35 36 high knob eats & attractions • Henry Meador Jr. Coal Museum Exhibits highlight the coal industry and the region’s coal heritage. 570 Shawnee Avenue East, Big Stone Gap (276) 523-9209
appalachia • The Appalachia Cultural Arts Center Venue offers a variety of events, including open mic nights, plays, music, arts and crafts, and more. 320 Main Street, Appalachia (276) 565-1049
coeburn • Lays Hardware Center for the Arts Located in a former hardware store, this Crooked Road venue has weekly jam sessions and Friday night concerts. 409 Front Street E., Coeburn (276) 395-5160
Scott County • Carter Family Fold This Crooked Road venue has weekly concerts on Saturday nights and celebrates the Carter family. A museum on the site also offers information about the Carter family and bluegrass music. 3449 A.P. Carter Hwy., Hiltons (276) 386-6054
• Creation Kingdom Zoo Located outside Gate City, the zoo has animals that include a white Bengal tiger, leopards, camels, a wildebeest, red kangaroo, zebras, and more. 1642 Snowflake Rd., Gate City (276) 479-1910
• Daniel Boone Wilderness Trail Interpretive Center Located in Duffield, this satellite location of Natural Tunnel State Park, provides information about the important role of the Wilderness Road in America’s westward expansion. 371 Technology Trail Lane, Duffield
Southwest Virginia Museum 37 38 high knob he High Knob Region boasts numerous festivals that highlight Tthe region’s outdoor, cultural, and musical attractions. Check out some festivals & highlighted events below. February Polar Bear Obstacle Race Held in Big Stone Gap, this 5K run ends with events an icy water plunge. March Union Half Marathon This road race travels through the towns of Big Stone Gap and Appalachia.
April Run The Tunnel 3.8 This trail race is held in Natural Tunnel State Park in Scott County.
m ay Fit Farmer 12K Trail Run This trail race is held on the City of Norton’s Flag Rock Area Trails system and benefits the Norton Friends and Farmers Market. This race is also part of the High Knob Triple Crown running series. Other races in the series include the Mountain Fork Half Marathon in September and the High Knob Hellbender 10K in October.
If Birds Could Fly, Best Friend Festival Dr. Ralph Stanley Hills of Home Festival Started by the late Dr. Ralph Stanley. Celebrates old-time bluegrass.
Gathering in the Gap Music Festival Held in Big Stone Gap. Celebrates traditions of old-time, bluegrass, and Americana music in the Appalachian region.
Pound Heritage Days Celebrate’s the Town of Pound’s heritage.
June Fit Farmer 12K Trail Run, Flag Rock Area Trails Clinch River Days This St. Paul festival celebrates the Clinch River. The festival also features a running race, the Clinch River Days Festival 5.5K Trail Challenge Run.
Best Friend Festival Weeklong summer festival held in downtown Norton.
Woodbooger Chase Triathlon This event includes kayaking, trail running, and mountain biking in Flag Rock Recreation Area. Part of the City of Norton’s Best Friend Festival.
Ballad Health 5K Rhododendron blooming, High Knob This annual road race is held in downtown Norton and is part of the city’s annual Best Friend Festival. Best Friend Festival 39 40 high knob
Tour de Crackers Neck This bike race offers 26- and 30-mile routes festivals & that travel through the town of Big Stone Gap and Powell Valley.
Virginia-Kentucky District Fair Weeklong festival held at the Wise County events Fairgrounds. High Knob Music Festival Daylong event in High Knob Recreation Area.
Coal Country Classic Bike Race This 70-mile road race begins in Norton and travels through Southwest Virginia and Eastern Kentucky.
July Trail of the Lonesome Pine Outdoor Drama Official Outdoor Drama of Virginia. Shows held in July and August. Theatre in downtown Big Stone Gap.
Chillin’ and Grillin’ in the Glades BBQ & Music Festival State championship barbecue contest and music festival held in downtown Wise.
Gap to Gap Road Race This bike race offers 62- and 36-mile routes that begin and end in the town of Pennington Gap.
August Coal Railroad Days This weeklong festival celebrates the town of Appalachia’s heritage. The festival also features a running race, Coal Railroad Days 5K.
Gravelachia This gravel bike race offers 45- and 90-mile routes traversing High Knob.
The Grizzly This 3-plus mile obstacle race is held on Big Stone Gap’s Greenbelt trail.
High Knob Outdoor Fest This festival, held in downtown Norton, celebrates the High Knob Region’s outdoor recreation opportunities.
September Guest River Rally This festival, held Labor Day weekend, offers food, music, and more in downtown Coeburn.
Dock Boggs & Kate Peters Sturgill Festival Coal Country Classic Bike Race This annual music festival at the Country Cabin II celebrates Dock Boggs and Kate Peters Sturgill.
41 42 high knob Woodbooger GeoTrail This annual geocaching event is held in Flag Rock Recreation Area and Norton.
Benge’s Revenge Bike Race festivals & This road race offers 25- and 75-mile routes that travel through the City of Norton and Wise and Lee Counties.
Mountain Fork Half Marathon This 13.6-mile race travels Forest Service events roads on High Knob through the scenic Mountain Fork watershed. Race is part of the High Knob Triple Crown running series. Other races in the series include the Fit Farmer 12K Trail Run in May and the High Knob Hellbender 10K in October.
Lighting Up 5K Run/Walk This evening road run is held on Big Stone Gap’s Greenbelt trail.
High Knob Naturalist Rally This event is hosted by The Clinch Coalition, a local environmental nonprofit. The event features guided naturalist hikes and presentations in High Knob Recreation Area.
October High Knob Hellbender 10K This 6.2-mile road race travels from downtown Norton to the 4,200-foot High Knob summit, gaining more than 2,000 feet in elevation. This race is also part of the High Knob Triple Crown running series. Other races in the series include the Fit Farmer 12K Trail Run in May and the Mountain Fork Half Marathon in September.
Woodbooger Fest This fall festival celebrates the Woodbooger and is held in the City of Norton’s Flag Rock Recreation Area.
Tour de Sleepy Hollow This road bike race in Lee County offers 52-, 36-, and 22-mile routes.
Cloudsplitter 100 Ultramarathon race that travels trails in the City of Norton and on High Knob. Race distances: 25-, 50-, and 100-kilometers, and 100 miles.
Wise County Famous Fall Fling This fall festival is held in downtown Wise and celebrates mountain life with music, arts, and crafts. The festival also features the Heart One Cardiac Rehab 5K.
Home Craft Days This weekend festival in Big Stone Gap celebrates Appalachian heritage with live music, craft vendors, and demonstrations.
Mountain Fork Half Marathon 43 44 high knob november Dairy Queen Turkey Day 5K This annual Thanksgiving Day 5K is held in downtown Norton.
festivals & Oxbow Ultra Held in Clinch River State Park in St. Paul, race events distances include 6-, 12-, and 24-hours.
High Knob sunset
Dairy Queen Turkey Day 5K
Cloudsplitter 100
45 Woodbooger Fest 46 high knob heck out these High Knob Region recreation sites, trails, Cand waterways. Visit www. recreation explorenortonva.com for more sites. High Knob Region Parks
Bark Camp Recreation Area This U.S. Forest Service site has a campground, 61-acre lake that is a state-stocked trout sites fishery, and hiking trails.
Cave Springs Recreation Area This U.S. Forest Service site has a campground, swimming pond, and hiking, including access to the Stone Mountain Trail and Wilderness.
Clinch River State Park This new state park is still under development, but the park’s Sugar Hill Unit is open and offers hiking, biking, and fishing opportunities.
Flag Rock Recreation Area This 1,000-acre park in Norton has scenic overlooks, hiking and mountain biking trails, a campground, and state-stocked trout fishery on the city’s 9.8-acre Upper Reservoir.
High Knob Recreation Area This remote U.S. Forest Service site offers a small lake for swimming and fishing, a campground, hiking trails, and picnicking. Powell River Trail, Appalachia Natural Tunnel State Park At more than 850 feet long and 10 stories high, the park’s namesake was naturally carved through a limestone ridge.
High Knob Region Trails The High Knob Region has more than 100 miles of trails for hiking, trail running, and mountain biking. Some trails to check out:
Chief Benge Scout Trail This 19-mile trail travels from the High Knob Observation Tower in Wise Flag Rock Area Trails County to the Hanging Rock Day Use Area in Scott County.
Cranesnest Trail This graveled 3.5-mile one-way trail is located in Dickenson County just outside of Clintwood. The trail follows the Cranesnest River.
flag rock area trails This 10-mile trail system, open to mountain biking and foot traffic, travels through Flag Rock Recreation Area.
Guest River Gorge This 5.5-mile rails-to-trail gravel footpath follows the Guest River to its Little Stony National Recreation Trail confluence with the Clinch River. Chief Benge Scout Trail 47 48 high knobHigh Knob Trail This 33-mile trail travels through Wise and Scott counties and is open to horseback riding, hiking, and non-motorized biking. recreation Little Stony National recreation trail This 2.7-mile one-way hike in Scott County follows Little Stony Creek and passes several waterfalls, including Little Stony Falls. sites Powell River Trail This 3.4-mile round-trip rails-to-trail is a paved path open to foot traffic and biking. The trail follows the Powell River and travels along the abandoned L&N Railroad line. High Knob Region Waters The High Knob Region boasts numerous rivers, streams, and lakes for paddling and fishing. Some sites require a state fishing license and/or National Forest stamp.
Bark Camp Lake This 61-acre lake is a state stocked trout fishery managed by the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources. The lake is located in Scott County in Bark Camp Recreation Area. The recreation area, which is managed by the U.S. Forest Service, includes a campground and hiking trails. There is a $3 day use fee.
Bear Creek Reservoir This 26.3-acre lake is located just outside the town of Wise. Open to fishing and non-motorized boating.
Big Cherry Reservoir This 250-acre lake in Big Stone Gap allows kayaking, fishing, and hiking.
Big Stoney Creek (Mountain Fork) Special regulation trout water. Catch and release. Includes a portion of Big Stoney Creek (Mountain Fork) and its tributaries within the Jefferson National Forest from the outlet of High Knob Lake downstream to the confluence of Chimney Rock Fork and Big Stoney Creek.
Clinch River The Clinch River travels through Virginia from Tazewell County to the Tennessee state line. Multiple river access points for boatng and fishing exist along the river’s length.
Flannagan Reservoir The 1,143-acre impoundment in Dickenson County offers a variety of sportfish species.
High Knob Lake This 4-acre lake, located in High Knob Recreation Area, is operated by the U.S. Forest Service. The lake is open to fishing and swimming.
Bark Camp Lake
49 50 high knobKeokee Lake This 92-acre lake in Lee County is managed by the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources. The day use area is managed by the U.S. Forest Service. Recreation activities recreation include fishing, picnicking, and hiking. Little Stony Creek Special regulation trout water. Catch and release. Includes a portion of Little Stony Creek and its tributaries within the Jefferson sites National Forest from the Falls of Little Stony Creek downstream to a sign posted at the Hanging Rock Day Use Area.
North Fork Pound Reservoir The 154-acre lake includes recreation opportunities for fishing and boating. Several recreation areas offer access to the lake and various amenities. Visit North Fork of Pound Boat Launch, Phillips Creek Day Use Area, and Cane Patch Campground.
Norton Reservoirs The City of Norton has two reservoirs in Flag Rock Recreation Area. The 9.8-acre Upper Reservoir is a state-stocked trout fishery. Kayaks/canoes and electric motor boats are allowed on the Upper Reservoir.
Powell River Numerous fishing opportunities are available along the river’s approximate 80-mile journey through Wise and Lee counties.
High Knob Vistas Want to catch a Southwest Virginia sunset? Check out these overlooks.
High Knob Observation Tower The High Knob Observation Tower rests atop the 4,200-foot High Knob summit, the highest point in the Cumberland Mountains. Five states are visible: Virginia, Tennessee, Kentucky, West Virginia, and North Carolina.
Powell Valley OVerlook Located on U.S. 23 North between Big Stone Gap and Norton, the overlook offers views of the valley between Powell and Little Stone Mountains.
Flag Rock Overlook Resting at 3,200 feet in elevation, the overlook provides a rocky outcrop to sit and watch the sun slip below the horizon.
High Knob summit
51 Flag Rock Overlook 52 high knobBark Camp Recreation Area This U.S. Forest Service site has a 34-site campground. Note: The campground is temporarily closed and will reopen once a camping new water system is operational. Cane Patch Campground This U.S. Forest Service campground has 35 campsites and is within walking distance of Phillips Creek Day Use Area.
Cave Springs Recreation Area This U.S. Forest Service campground has 37 campsites, including nine with electric hookups.
Clinch River Family Campground This family-owned campground is located along the Clinch River outside Duffield.
Flag Rock campground This 18-site campground is located in the City of Norton’s Flag Rock Recreation Area. The campground is open annually spring-fall.
High Knob Recreation Area This remote U.S. Forest Service site has a 13-site campground. Note: The recreation area and campground are temporarily closed as work to fix the recreation area’s water system continues.
Jessie Lea RV Park The RV park is located in Big Stone Gap.
Natural Tunnel State Park The state park has several lodging options, including cabins, yurts, and two campgrounds.
Wilderness Road Campground Located in Cumberland Gap National Historical Park, the campground has 160 campsites.
Flag Rock Campground
53 High Knob camping 54 high knob High Knob Contacts The below groups can help provide more details on the sites, events, and activities mentioned in this guide.
visitor U.S. Forest Service Clinch Ranger DistricT 1700 Park Avenue SW, Norton (276) 679-8370
City of Norton resources 618 Virginia Ave. NW, Norton (276) 679-1160
Wise County Chamber of Commerce 765 Park Avenue SW, Norton (276) 679-0981
Big Stone Gap Visitor Center 306 Wood Ave. E., Big Stone Gap (276) 523-2303
Heart of Appalachia Tourism Authority 3028 4th Ave. Market Square, St. Paul (276) 762-0011
Southwest Regional Recreation Authority 502 Front St. E, Coeburn (276) 807-7581
Outfitters & Gear Rentals Clinch Life Outfitters 3022 5th Ave., St. Paul/(276) 608-6907 Products, services, and support for outdoor recreation activities, including fishing, kayaking, hiking, biking, camping, hunting, and ATVing.
Clinch River Adventures 16642 E. Riverside Drive, St. Paul/(276) 275-4154 Kayaking, tubing, and shuttle trips on the Clinch River.
Clinch River Life 15264 U.S. 23-N, Duffield/(276) 690-9199 Tubing and shuttle services on the Clinch River.
Iron Works Cycling 520 Wood Ave. E, Big Stone Gap/(276) 207-8232 Bicycle sales, including assistance electric bikes, bicycle repairs, kayak rentals and sales.
Pathfinders Outdoor Adventures 534 Park Ave. NW, Norton/(276) 219-4001 Training, retail sales, outdoor equipment rentals, adventure concierge services, and adventure event promotions.
High Knob Outdoor Fest Stone Mountain Adventures 1253 12th St. SE, Norton/(276) 207-7024 55 Gear rentals outdoor activities. Guided hiking, mountain biking, and 56 water sport services. high knob Before You Go Please remember to responsibly recreate while visiting the High Knob Region. See below for helpful tips and links to ensure your visitor visit is a safe and happy one. check Road Conditions Some roads on the Jefferson National Forest are closed during winter months due to inclement weather conditions. Contact the U.S. Forest Service’s Clinch Ranger District resources Office for details. Bring A Map Get a map before hitting the trail. Clinch Ranger District maps are available at the U.S. Forest Service’s Clinch Ranger District Office. See page 56 for a list of outfitters and visitor centers to contact for details about sites highlighted in this guide.
Phone Access Parts of the High Knob Region have limited cell service. Let someone know your plans before hitting the trail.
Recreate Responsibly Take care of the High Knob Region. Please follow Leave No Trace practices when recreating. Help us protect and preserve High Knob!
Get Involved Interested in getting involved with groups working to grow outdoor recreation in the High Knob Region? See below.
The Clinch Coalition www.clinchcoalition.net
Clinch River Valley Initiative www.clinchriverva.com
Flag Rock Area Trails Volunteer Crew www.frat.bike
Forest Recreation Outdoor Group Contact: Michelle Davalos, Clinch District Ranger, (276) 679-8370
Gap Partnership www.facebook.com/gappartnership
High Knob Enhancement Corporation Contact: Katie Dunn, [email protected] or (276) 679-1160
Little Stony Trout Unlimited Chapter www.facebook.com/little.s.creek/
Spearhead Trailblazers Flag Rock Recreation Area www.spearheadtrails.com/trail-blazers 57 58