Pine Mountain Trail

About Pine Mountain Trail

The Pine Mountain Trail, can be accessed from several different points. This challenging trail follows the Kentucky/Virginia border, with many elevation changes. Some areas the trail is as steep as 30º. I will be describing only sections that I have hiked. 

The trail is divided into two sections. The Birch Knob Section from Breaks to US 23 (15 miles) and the Highland Section from US 23 to Ky 119 (14 miles), for a total of 29 miles.

Begin the Birch Knob section by accessing the Russell Fork Trailhead which begins at the end of Carson Island Road accessed off Route 80 near the Elkhorn City Hall.

Begin the Highland section by accessing the Birch Knob Trailhead

This discription starts at the railroad bridge. Note: This was written before the event on 9/11/01. Since then the bridge crossing is now considered trespassing and are subject to a fine. You will see the pull off after making a sharp left hand turn. The pull off is right above the railroad bridge at Potter Flats. A sign that says "River access picnic area .25 miles" is just past this pull off, so if you see that you have missed the pull off.