Appalachian Trail to Lynchburg Reservoir

For hikers or backpackers looking for a one-way woodland hike along the Appalachian Trail, look no further than the A.T. to Lynchburg Reservoir for a 6.7-mile one-way trek.

We did this section of the Appalachian Trail as an intro to backpacking hike for our local scout group. By going southbound, you avoid the majority of uphill.

Trail Guide

- 0.0 Miles: Park at the trailhead along Hwy 60. The trail is on the other side of the road to the right. 0.8 Miles: The trail comes to a stream and follows it until you hit the reservoir. 

- 1.3 Miles: Brown Mountain Creek Shelter. There is several good camping sites shortly before and after the shelter. There is a privy but no bear box/pole.

- 4.4 Miles: The trail reaches the Lynchburg Reservoir. It will follow the hill side around the reservoir. You will not be able to reach the waterline from the trail without significant off trail hiking.

- 5.0 Miles: The trail follows a gravel road. They are build a new trail for the AT that parallels the road and have blazed it but the trail itself is not done as of April 5, 2025. Stay on the road until you reach a sign.

- 6.0 Miles: The trail goes behind a small ridge and loses sight of the reservoir.
 
- 6.7 Miles: The trail cross a large bridge. There is a small parking area on the other side. Along the road it cross are a few decent campsites about .1 miles to the right. The hike ends near mile 6.7 along Reservoir Road.

Parking

Hikers and backpackers will find parking at either end of the route provided. The southern parking lot can be found at the following coordinates: 37.670798, -79.283648. The northern parking, which is the main parking area for this route is located at: 37.723636, -79.250844.

Pets

Dogs are allowed only if leashed and must be cleaned up after.

Backpacking and Camping

Backpackers will find shelters and campsites located along the route (Appalachian Trail). This is a great route for intro to backpacking.