Highcock Knob / Sulphur Spring Trail Loop - Hiking trail near Big island, Virginia, United States - Description

This hike forms a loop through the James River Wilderness using parts of the Appalachian Trail, Sulphur Spring Trail and FR35. It crosses multiple scenic overlooks.

From the Petites Gap Appalachian Trail Parking Lot, take the white blazed Appalachian Trail northbound. The summit of Highcock Knob is reached at about 1.2 miles. Before reaching the summit, look for an overlook to the left. Continue past the summit of Highcock Knob to an unmarked trail intersection in 0.5 miles. Take a right to stay on the white blazed Appalachian Trail to Marble Spring in 0.5 miles. To reach the spring, take a left onto the spur trail for 300ft.

Continue on the Appalachian Trail for another 0.5 miles to a large trail intersection. Take a left onto the Sulphur Spring Trail. Follow the Sulphur Spring Trail downhill, passing one nice overlook, to Forest Road 35 in 2.8 miles. Take a left onto Forest Road 35 and climb back to the trailhead in 2.6 miles passing a few other overlooks.

Drive to Petites Gap at Milepost 71 on the Blue Ridge Parkway.