Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Location
Wise County
Endpoints
Phillips Creek Recreation Area
Mileage
1
Roughness Index
3
Surface
Dirt
The short, relatively easy Phillips Creek Loop (also known as the Pine Mountain
Trail) begins in a pleasant recreation area that is open May 15 to September 15 and
provides paid parking, swimming, restrooms, and secluded picnic areas. The trail is
open for hiking all year, but since the area is gated (and the restrooms are closed) in
the off-season, you must park your car at the gate and walk about a half mile to the
trailhead.
From the information kiosk, follow a footbridge into a forest that includes thick-
ets of rhododendron and a stand of white pines. On the first half of the loop, you
will walk alongside Phillips Creek. Keep your eyes open for an old hunting camp
used by Native Americans, as well as the site of an old moonshine still located across
the creek. These sites are not well-marked. Since they are not obvious, consider call-
ing the Clinch Ranger District (276-328-2931) to order an informational brochure ex-
plaining the various points of interest along the trail.
