Hiking McAfee Knob on the Appalachian Trail near Roanoke, Virginia at sunrise is a bucket list item for any hiker or adventure seeker. Hiking “the knob” is an easy accomplishment for any solo hiker or a family with little kids as it’s only 3.5 miles each way and 7 miles round trip along a fire road or trail.

a guide to Hiking mcAfee’s knob at sunrise

For a sunrise hike in May, you’ll have to be at the parking lot no later than 3:45am. So, bring a headlight and a thermos of your favorite coffee. The hike although not strenuous for most takes 4+ hours, so prepare to bring a bottle of water, a small snack, and sturdy hiking boots as the trail can be muddy. Alight top to keep you warm upon summiting (even in the summer) is recommended. The knob with its sweeping views is exposed to the elements and always has a breeze.

is mcafee’s knob a hard hike?

The hike to Mcafee Knob is a slow and steady uphill hike up Catawba Mountain. The trail, is a part of the larger Appalachian Trail, which is wide and well groomed with easy to denote markers. The only exception is when you reach the top.

some of roanoke virginia’s best hikes are 1/2 day hikes

When you reach the top of Catawba Mountain you can easily go past the iconic McAfee Knob rock overlook. The overlook’s sweeping panoramic views of the Catawba valley beneath you are not to be missed. Make sure you look for trail signs and breaks in the brush, which will lead you to McAfee’s knob overlook. It’s very easy to continue on the Appalachian Trail and not walk the extra 50 feet to the overlook.

hiking mcafee’s knob 1-2-3 information

Quick information about hiking McAfee’s Knob in any season:

Bring a water bottle
The hike takes about 3.5-4 hours of moving time round trip.
Total distance is about 7.2 miles
Go early! - The parking lot at the top of 311 in Catawba fills up quick and parking signs are strictly enforced.