AT: Natural Bridge Appalachian Trail Club

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Features Birding · Fall Colors · Views · Waterfall · Wildflowers · Wildlife

• Appalachian Trail (AT)

This section of the Appalachian Trail follows the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains, climbing over Apple Orchard Mountain, descending to cross the James River and then climbing again to the Priest. It passes through three wilderness areas: Thunder Ridge, James River Face, and the Priest.

Thinking of the full 90 miles as a single outing is for the long-distance, thru-hikers and section hikers who are seeking to cover many long, continuous portions of the Appalachian Trail. For day users, concider this list of manageable day trips that lead to some spectacular places:

• AT: Tye River to the summit of the Priest
• Spy Rock to Crabtree Falls
• Old Hotel Trail
• Apple Orchard Falls - Cornelius Creek

Best wildflower viewing is in early to mid April.