The Appalachian Trail (AT) passes through the Settlers Museum property. The AT can be followed south across Glade Mountain into the Jefferson National Forest or north, under I-81, towards Crawfish Valley.

This area is a local favorite for finding golden-winged warblers. The habitat also supports numerous other warblers, including worm-eating, black-and-white, ovenbird and yellow-breasted chat, as well as other woodland and edge species.

The portion of the AT that runs through the Settlers Museum property has also been designated as a part of Virginia Birding and Wildlife Trail. There are numerous species of wildflowers you can see in this area.

It is free to use the trail. Please feel free to park in our lot. We also provide fresh water and veggies (in season) for hikers at the Visitor Center. Be sure to sign our guestbook for hikers in the Lindamood School.

General Hiking Tips

• We generally suggest that you wear hiking boots instead of shoes. In rugged territory, boots can really help prevent that twisted ankle or knee as well as protect your ankles from poison ivy.
• Break in new boots BEFORE hitting the trail.
• Carry along plenty of water. Up to three quarts per person in hot weather.
• Do not drink water directly from streams without treatment or boilitect you from Giardia parasites.
• Be sure to have ample food supplies.
• Check the local weather.
• Have a detailed map of the area.
• Let someone know where you're going and when you should be returning.

Day Hiking Checklist:

These are recommendations for hiking trips that will take an entire day to complete. Shorter trips, two miles or less, require little equipment other than some water, camera, and possibly binoculars. Add a snack, and you're good to go. Of course, there are always exceptions. Some short trails can be quite strenuous. Use common sense when determining what to take. Better to be safe than sorry.

• Small backpack designed for dayhiking or a hydration pack
• Two or three liters of water/person on hot days.
• Snacks such as beef jerky, peanuts, and raisins.
• Take along water purification tablets or a water filter in case of additional water needs.
• Small first aid kit.
• Compass - it's easy to get turned around when most landmarks look alike. Can be considered optional in some cases. Consult your map before heading out.
• Possibly a bee sting kit for anyone who may be allergic.
• Pain relievers and stomach ailment medication.
• A map of the area you'll be hiking.
• Books for plant and animal identification can be rewarding, but optional due to weight concerns.
• Camera and binoculars. (optional)
• Rain gear and extra socks can’t hurt.
• Sunscreen and hats can be useful as well.
• Flashlight.

Multi-day hiking:

For hiking that requires more than two days in the backcountry, you should include the items listed above, plus a few more

• Backpack ranging from 3,000 to 6,000 cubic inches depending on how many days. 3,000 should cover a weekend trip.
• Proper tent or tarp for the number of people camping.
• Sleeping bags.
• Sleeping pads.
• Possibly a cell phone in case of emergency. Have respect for others and leave it off until you need it.
• Make sure you take enough food.
• Candle or battery operated lantern.
• Lightweight backpacking stove and cookware.

Wilderness Areas:

This is a list of items that the U.S. Forest Service recommends you take along when traveling in designated wilderness areas.

• Extra clothing.
• Extra food.
• Sunglasses.
• Knife.
• Fire Starter.
• Matchess (preferably waterproof).
• First aid kit.
• Flashlight.
• Map.
• Compass.