Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
The Guest River Gorge Trail skirts the edge of the vast Jefferson National Forest.
Near the end, the trail slopes downhill toward a working rail line across the Guest
River. Just before this point, you will see a connection to the Heart of Appalachia Bike
Route, which stretches another 125 miles to Burke's Garden in Tazewell County, Vir-
ginia. Legend has it that Burke's Garden is so beautiful it was originally sought after
as the location for George Washington Vanderbilt's Biltmore Estate, but the people of
Burke's Garden refused to sell him any land and thus he built his estate in Ashville,
North Carolina, instead.
DIRECTIONS
The Guest River Gorge Trail is an out-and-back trail, so there is only
one endpoint. From US Alternative Hwy. 58, head south on VA Route 72
near Coeburn. Travel for 2.3 miles on this curvy, two-lane road. You will
pass the Flatwoods Picnic Area on your right, and very soon afterward, you
will reach a sign for the Guest River Gorge on your left. Turn left onto this
paved road, which is Forest Road 2477, and drive for 1.4 miles until you
reach the parking lot. The trailhead is marked with a kiosk at the edge of
the parking area.
Contact:
Clinch Ranger District
9416 Darden Drive
Wise, VA 24293
(276) 328-2931
