Appalachian Trail #4 (North Mountain Trail to VA 311)

This section of the Appalachian Trail is a short one that runs from the North Mountain Trail near VA 624 to VA 311 (just before McAfee Knob for northbound hikers ). The Trail climbs Sawtooth Ridge then continues through some fields where Fort Lewis, North, and Cove Mountain are visible. Sawtooth Ridge has some nice views from a rock outcropping in an area of pines at the crest of the mountain.  It’s roughly six miles of classic ridge walking with moderate ups and downs, passing through open hardwood forest and fields with  occasional rocky viewpoints.

Starting from the North Mountain Trail junction, the AT follows a broad, mostly gentle ridge toward Catawba Mountain Shelter, a common overnight spot located about 1 mile before VA-311. The terrain is generally smooth and well-graded, with scattered rock gardens, mountain-laurel thickets, and seasonal wildflowers. As you approach VA-311, the trail gradually descends on switchbacks to the busy trailhead parking area used by most day hikers going to McAfee Knob. While not dramatic like the nearby overlooks, this segment is an attractive, quiet forest walk that serves as the connector between the rugged North Mountain ridge system and the major scenic highlight to the north.