Dragons Tooth Trail (Forest Trail #5009)
Dragons Tooth is a spectacular rock formation located on top of Cove Mountain. The 2.3 mile trail leading to Dragons Tooth is a gradual uphill climb for the first mile until it joins the Appalachian Trail and begins to climb steeply. This part of the hike is strenuousand requires rock scrambling near the top. You'll need your hands and feet to climb the last rocky sections to reach "The Tooth," a 35-foot rock spire. At the top, you'll be rewarded with a jumble of rugged rock outcroppings and panoramic views. Allow plenty of time and daylight to do this challenging hike. Many hikers will take six hours or more to complete the hike.
Trail Open To:
Specific Trail Information
Trail Type
General Information
- Trail Length: 1.20 miles
- Blazes: Blue blazes on Dragons Tooth Trail and white blazes after converging with the Appalachian Trail
- Trail Difficulty: Moderate
- Connecting Trails: Boy Scout Trail (Forest Trail #5002) and Appalachian Trail (Forest Trail #1)
- Elevation: 1739 to 2842 feet
- Trail Access Points: LAT 37.3787 LONG -80.1563
- Trail Etiquette: Trail etiquette for multiple use trails calls for horses to have the right-of-way. Hikers should yield to horses. Bicyclists should yield to horses and hikers.
- Trail Map: It is recommended that all trail users always carry a reliable map. This trail is shown on the Interactive Visitor Map and the National Geographic/Trails Illustrated Map #787 and #788. Maps may be purchased at some local District Ranger Stations, at outdoor retail locations or by visiting the National Geographic’s Trails Illustrated website.
Open year round
No fee
Drinking water is not provided. All water taken from natural sources should be purified before use.
When recreating on Forest Service Lands, follow the safety and outdoor ethics recommendations.
All visitors should follow Tread Lightly and Leave No Trace guidelines.
Getting There
Directions
From I-81: Exit 140 and take Highway 311 north for 11 miles towards New Castle. Dragon’s Tooth parking lot is on the left, just past Catawba Grocery.
Additional Information
Operated By
Eastern Divide Ranger District: (540) 552 - 4641
