Dragon's Tooth Trail

The trail to Dragon's Tooth ascends steep, rugged outcrops of quartzite which form the spine of Cove Mountain and North Mountain. The spine is known as Dragon's Back. After a difficult hike, the Dragon's Tooth summit offers magnificent views of nearby and distant peaks year-round. Especially with close proximity to downtown Roanoke, this route isn't one that you'll want to miss. Dragon's Tooth s a unique geologic feature that consists of Tuscarora quartzite spires which outcrop on the top of Cove Mountain. The tallest "tooth" projects roughly 35 feet above the surrounding rock. Directions to Trailhead: From Roanoke - take I-81 south to Exit 141. Turn left at the traffic light onto Rt. 419 (Electric Rd.) and follow 0.4 miles to next traffic light (Rt. 311). Turn right onto Rt. 311N and follow for 10 miles. Dragon's Tooth parking lot is on left just past Catawba Grocery Add On: Grab a beer at Parkway Brewing Company or finish your day with a great meal at the Home Place - a restaurant famous among thru-hikers. To reach the Home Place begin your return trip to Roanoke on Rt. 311 south. After 2 miles turn right into the Home Place (a large white farmhouse). Make a life-long friend by giving any thru-hikers you see a ride! Visitors can also taste Virginia's award-winning wines. The Botetourt County Wine Trail consists of three local wineries located in close proximity to Dragon's Tooth. Or go see a baseball game! View the Salem Red Sox schedule or by calling 540.389.3333 Last, but not least, you could also explore Roanoke's premiere art museum - the Taubman Museum of Art (540.342.5760)