High Knob Tower
On a clear day it’s possible to enjoy views of five states from the upper platform of High Knob Tower. Landmarks that can be viewed from the tower are Pine Mountain (Kentucky-Virginia state line), Mount Rogers, Whitetop Mountain, Clinch Mountain, Roan Mountain (Tennessee-North Carolina state line) and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Visitors with a smart phone or tablet can access an aid in identifying the prominent landmarks that are visible from High Knob. Go to https://visitswva.org/attractions/high-knob-observation-tower/ and click on the get started link. This tool is provided by the University of Virginia-Wise Citizen Science Institute.
The observation tower currently standing on High Knob was reconstructed in 2014 and is wheelchair accessible. The previous stone and wood tower was destroyed by an arsonist in 2008. With tremendous support from local communities and the High Knob Enhancement Corporation, funds and grants were secured to rebuild this structure for your enjoyment.
Active Alerts
General Information
Open year round
6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m
When recreating on Forest Service Lands, follow the safety and outdoor ethics recommendations.
No Fees are required for this site.
Keep your pet on a leash when in a recreation area. 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)).
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: 36.89222222
Longitude: -82.62944444
Directions
From Kingsport, TN: Follow US23 North to the first exit to Norton, VA. Make a right onto VA 619. Follow VA619 for 3.8 miles to the intersection of FS238. Make a left onto FS238 and in less than a mile you will see the entrance to the tower parking lot on the right.
From Abingdon, VA: Follow US 58W/US19N to Hansonville, VA. Turn left onto US 58W Alternate and drive to Norton. At Norton, turn south onto SR 619. Follow SR 619 for 3.8 miles to the intersection of FS 238. Make a left onto FS 238 and in less than a mile you will see the entrance to the tower parking lot on the right.
Facility and Amenity Information
Accessibility
The tower is accessible by a wide, paved path from the parking lot.
Restrooms
Restrooms are available at this site.
Water
Potable water is not available at this site.
Picnic Tables
Picnic tables are available at this site.
