Rock Castle Gorge
11.0 miles, strenuous terrain
47 miles from Cave Spring Corners, $5.50 carpool fee
The hike is located in Patrick County, on Blue Ridge Parkway
land. After a steep 2,000-foot ascent, the hike parallels the Parkway - passing
alternately through woods and open fields with extraordinary views. On the
descent down the other side of the gorge, the hike passes some old cabin sites
and a series of interesting rock formations. The last few miles are along Rock
Castle Creek - a wild stream with many cataracts.
This loop with excellent views in good weather, abundant
spring wildflowers, with bear and turkey not uncommon. It is located 12
miles SW of Floyd on Blue Ridge Parkway land. After a steep 2,000-foot
ascent, the hike parallels the Parkway – passing alternately through woods and
open fields with extraordinary views. On the descent down the other side
of the gorge, the hike passes some old cabin sites and a series of interesting
rock formations. The last few miles are along Rock Castle Creek – a wild stream
with many cataracts.