These two trails offer the hiker scenic mountain views and many connections to other trails. The terrain is difficult at times.

Mountain Top and Mountain Side circuit trails total 4.3 miles in length. They are moderately difficult and offer the hiker beautiful views of Beards Mountain. The elevation peaks at 2,620 feet. Many of Douthat's trails are interconnected with practically each trail offering another beautiful sight. While walking south along Mountain Top and Mountain Side the hiker may choose to continue onto Buck Hollow Trail which offers an overlook at 2,110 feet. To reach more southern views, veer onto Brushy Hollow Trail that descends 200 feet to Beard's Gap. The trail then ascends to another beautiful overlook at 2,360 feet. These extended trips are just merely a short one-mile round trip from the junction of Mountain Top and Mountain Side. This path is not heavily traveled so the hiker should be prepared for semi-rough terrain.

Directions: From Clifton Forge, VA, From Clifton Forge, Virginia head east on I-64 to Exit 27. Turn North onto Rt. 629 and travel three miles to the park entrance sign and four more miles to the park office. Trail begins on Guest Lodge Trail (which is located behind the park lodge) passing Ross Camp Hollow Trail and entering to the right.

Elevation: 2,620 feet

Distance: 4.3 miles

Difficulty: Moderate

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