Spruce Mountain, one of the shorter ridges in the Appalachian Ridges and Plateaus, is nevertheless the highest. Spruce Knob, a flat spot on the crest of whale-backed Spruce Mountain, is the highest point in the east between the Adirondacks of New York and Mount Rogers in far southern Virginia. While not above timberline, the stunted tree growth on this windy mountain is somewhat open, and there is also an open field south of the main knob.

Like many Southern Appalachian highpoints, a road leads tourists to the summit of Spruce Knob, but the steep gravel of this road discourages the masses. An squat observation tower allows extended views of the endless, green, hazy ridges of West Virginia and Virginia, but it is difficult to determine which of the spots on the flat, scrubby moutaintop is highest.

A lot of challenging routes for rockclimbing is offered in nearby Seneca Rocks.

How to Get There

From Interstate 81 heading west on U.S. Route 33 from Harrisonburg, Virginia for 56 miles. Briery Gap Road is 2 miles south of Riverton, West Virginia off US 33. Follow for 2.5 miles to Forest Road 112 and follow the signs to Spruce Knob. From Forest Road 112 continue for about 8 miles to the mountain top.