Spec Mines Trail Circuit via Blackhorse Gap

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10.6 miles, moderate terrain
66 miles from Roanoke, $4.50 carpool fee

The hike is located in Botetourt County just west of the Blue Ridge Parkway. It will utilize the Spec Mines Trail, AT between Montvale Overlook and Blackhorse Gap, and the Glenwood Horse Trail (USFS 634) with a side trip to the Spec Mines. The Spec Mines are about one mile (one-way) off the Glenwood Horse Trail and will require some bushwhacking. The initial climb from the Glenwood Horse Trail is quite strenuous for a 1/4 - 1/2 mile, so one must be in shape to do this. The site of the mines offers two open mines and a couple of old brick buildings along the creek. The mines have been closed since the early 1900's, so this is a trip back in time.