Birch Knob Observation Site

Visitors to the Birch Knob Observation Tower enjoy views stretching from Virginia, to Kentucky, West Virginia, North Carolina, and Tennessee. Hikers are challenged by the Pine Mountain Trail that meanders along the ridge top between Kentucky and Virginia.

Current Conditions

Birch Knob Observation Tower is closed for the season.

Active Alerts

Prohibitions in designated recreation sites

General Information

Open Late March to Late December.

Day use only. Open sunrise to sunset.

The America the Beautiful Interagency Pass series and the George Washington & Jefferson National Forests Seasonal Day Use Pass are accepted here. The Virginia State Parks pass does not apply on the National Forest.

No Fees are required for this site.

No Fee

Please keep your pet on a leash when in a recreation area or campground. The law requires dog owners to keep their dog on a leash with a length no greater than 6 feet and under physical control when within a recreational area, such as a campground or day use area (36 CFR 2616(j)).

Clinch Ranger Station Office with decorative and official Forest Service sign in front.

Address: 1700 Park Avenue SW Norton, VA 24273
Phone: 276-679-8370
Hours: Monday - Friday; 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM (Closed on federal holidays)

Getting There

Latitude / Longitude

Latitude: 37.23805556

Longitude: -82.45805556

Directions

From Kingsport, TN: Follow US 23 North to Pound, VA. Take the first Pound exit then take VA 83 East to Clintwood, VA. Make a left onto VA 631 and follow for 2.8 miles then take a right on VA 611 for another 2.3 miles until you see Birch Knob Road (FS 616) on the left. Follow this gravel road to the end at the observation tower.

From Abingdon, VA: Follow US 58 West/US 19 North to Hansonville, VA. Turn left onto US 58 West Alternate and drive to Norton. At Norton, turn north onto US 23 toward Pound, VA. Take the first Pound exit the take VA 83 East to Clintwood, VA. Make a left onto VA 631 and follow for 2.8 miles then take a right on VA 611 for another 2.3 miles until you see Birch Knob Road (FS 616) on the left. Follow this gravel road to the end at the observation tower.