Hiking
Stay tuned as we continue to work with the local Forest Service, Appalachain Trail Conservancy and our own citizens to update the trail systems and information in Giles. We look forward to bringing you downloadable maps you can print out and carry with you as well as list places where you can pick up maps and brochures on our various hiking trails.
Kelly Knob Overlook - This is a 2 mile hike along the Appalachian Trail to Kelly Knob Overlook. Trailhead also accesses Johns Creek Mountain Trail. The elevation is from 3300 to 3800 feet, with the difficulty rating considered to be moderate.
Cascades Recreation Area is a scenic and popular destination located in the Little Stony Creek Valley. Visitors can hike to view spectacular Cascades waterfall and afterward enjoy a picnic lunch. This is a 4 mile loop trail to 66' waterfalls with elevations from 2200 to 2900 feet.
War Spur & Wind Rock Trails - These trails are moderately easy trails through the Mountain Lake Wilderness as both trails lead to scenic overlooks with elevations from 3100- 3800 feet. Some of this trail follows the Appalachain Trail eastward. The Wind Rock Overlook offers sweeping views of Rocky Mountains (3300'), Fork Mountain (3645') and Peter's Mountain (4000').
Angels Rest Overlook - Hike the Appalachian Trail 1 1/2 miles up Pearis Mountain to a scenic overlook. The Difficulty rating of this hike is moderate but steep with elevations of 2000 ft. to 3550 ft. There of great views of the New River Valley and surrounding mountains.
Dismal Falls- Dismal Creek is about 50 feet wide (depending on water volume) at this point as it flows down over several ledges. The ledges on the left side of the falls are step-like while the middle and right ledges are more of a straight drop. In lower water, the middle and right are not covered and the stream is much narrower. Despite the width of the stream, the waterfall is not particularly open with trees lining each bank and throwing much of the falls into shade most of the day.
How to Find It
From the parking area, follow the short trail to the falls. Be careful on the rocks where the trail comes out as they can be slippery. Total round trip: .1 miles over easy terrain.
Safety Considerations: slippery rocks at viewpoint
Driving Directions:
Take exit 98 from I-81 going north on VA-100. Go 11.6 miles and turn left on VA-42. After 10.1 miles turn right on SR-606. After 1 mile, turn right on SR-671 which becomes unpaved after .4 miles. .5 miles after the pavement ends, there is a sign for the falls and a small pull-off on the right of the road.
Fees for Access: none