Pine Mountain

If your adventure seeking pup is ready to get out in nature, consider taking a hike on the Pine Mountain Trail. This isn’t just any trail, it spans a whopping 44 miles and runs through Kentucky and Virginia. Needless to say, there is plenty of room for your pooch to roam!

To access the trail from the north, park at the Russell Fork Trailhead. This is located just outside of Elkhorn City in Breaks Interstate Park. From here, the trail makes its way up to the Pine Mountain Ridgeline. Along the way, your furry friend will enjoy puptacular vistas. On a clear day, they can even see Kentucky, West Virginia, and Virginia. This section of the trail continues until it reaches Birch Knob, which happens to be the highest point on the trail. Here you will find water and campsites.

The second section of the trail runs from Birch Knob down to Pounders Gap. Once you cross US 23, the trail enters the third and final stretch. This leg is commonly referred to as the Highland Section. While hiking through this area your doggo will cross through bogs and woodlands. They’ll see wildflowers, pawsome rock formations, and puptastic cliff line views. When you reach US 119 you have come to the end of the trail.

There are a couple impawtant things to be aware of when hiking Pine Mountain Trail. There is no clean drinking water available. All water must be purified and come from natural sources. Also, there are patches of land near the trail that are privately owned. To stay on the right side of the law, have a map handy and plan your route in advance. Also, you will be traveling through bear country, so make sure all food is pawperly stored. Be sure to bring enough water, clean up bags, and any necessary supplies for this wilderness hike.

Make no mistake, hiking this trail will make your pup one happy hound!