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A loop trail to a beautiful overlook of the Mountain Lake Wilderness and a wild, tree-filled valley.


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Map Key

2.3

Miles

3.7

KM

90%

Runnable

3,807' 1,160 m

High

3,507' 1,069 m

Low

324' 99 m

Up

319' 97 m

Down

5%

Avg Grade (3°)

12%

Max Grade (7°)

Dogs Leashed

Features Birding · Fall Colors · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

Description

The War Spur Trail starts just a few miles past the popular Mountain Lake Lodge. The small parking area is located on the western end of the trail. Traveling clockwise, the trail weaves through the mostly hardwood forest, though there are surprisingly healthy looking hemlocks and rhododendron at various points.

Soon, you'll reach the War Branch Connector Trail veering off to the left which connects the War Spur Trail to the Appalachian Trail. Stay to the right to stay on the War Spur Trail. At the eastern end of the loop, the trail switchbacks uphill, and at the easternmost point, meets the War Spur Overlook Trail. The end of the War Spur Overlook Trail provides beautiful views of the Mountain Lake Wilderness, Johns Creek Mountain, and the sparsely inhabited valley below.

To return to the parking lot, head southwest at the intersection and slowly climb your way back up to the parking area. At one point, the trail passes over a spring-fed stream on this stretch.

Like most other trails in this region of SW Virginia, there are many small rocks to negotiate along the trail, so the running is usually at a little slower pace to pick your way through the rocks although this trail does not have any major rock gardens.

Contacts

Shared By:

Steve Creech

Trail Ratings

  3.7 from 3 votes

#23817

Overall
  3.7 from 3 votes
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Trail Rankings

#593

in Virginia

#23,817

Overall
7 Views Last Month
752 Since Nov 14, 2017
Intermediate/Difficult Intermediate/Difficult

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Photos

War Spur Trail surrounded by large ferns.
Jan 15, 2021 near Pembroke, VA
Trailhead sign.
Sep 4, 2021 near Pembroke, VA

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