Birch Knob Observation Site

Area Status: Open

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.

At a Glance

Current Conditions:	Birch Knob Observation Tower will close for the season on Friday, January 10, 2025.
Operational Hours:	6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m
Fees:	No Fee
Open Season:	late-March - late-December
Closest Towns:	Clintwood, VA
Water:	No drinking water available
Restroom:	None
Operated By:	Clinch Ranger District: (276) 679-8370

General Information

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.