Dragon's Tooth

4.6 mi.

Dragon's Tooth is a mountain outcropping on the Appalachian Trail that gives a great view of the Catawba Valley below. To get there take exit 41 off of I-81 S, and go north on Rte. 311 for roughly 10 miles, the parking lot will be on the left. This trail has an elevation gain of 2,600 feet meaning that it will be substantially uphill and is recommended for experienced hikers. Dogs are allowed on this trail but please allow enough water for them as well as yourself. At 2.5 miles you will reach a junction, to the left is the AT, and to the right is the Dragon's Tooth Trail, past this junction it will become a much steeper grade. During the summer be sure to look for Rhododendron blooms and tulip poplar trees throughout most of Virginia's highest ridges, especially on this trail. After this junction with the AT, you will ascend to the top of Cove Mountain (3,020 ft.) and follow the ridge line to the right until you reach the "tooth", a tall rock formation that shoots straight up. This entire trail is 4.6 miles roundtrip, but you will have the option to stop and turn around at several points along it should you be unable to reach the top. Pack a jacket as the tooth area at the top is very open and windy, and the temperatures drop quite quickly as you reach the top.