Moderate, 8.4 mi out or back
1,985 ft elevation gain
Hiked 9/23/25
This trail takes you to the most photographed place on the Appalachian Trail, the ledge at McAfee Knob (or as everyone there called it, Robert Redford rock). A steady incline evens out the elevation over time leading to a large beautiful vantage point. Popular for a reason and well worth the effort.
The trail maintains a steady but forgiving pace, with a mix of early fall colors.
Looking WNW from the ledge at McAfee Knob, showing the other side of the famous photo spot.
Another shot with the “Robert Redford rock” with the ridgeline of Tinker Cliffs/North Mountain in the background.
What I believe to be an Azalea Caterpillar (Moth) walking along the trail. Pretty cool looking caterpillar, about finger sized.
Roanoke is a beautiful city! Did you see the star?
Oh damn, I didn’t even know about it until just now! I was headed back to the parking lot so went down when there was still some light and didn’t know to look. Wikipedia for anyone interested.
