Big Valley Trail

This trail goes from the East/West Dark Hollow trail split and heads back toward the park headquarters. It climbs back over Big Ridge and ends at the park road. While there is a decent bit of climbing heading this direction, there will be even more strenuous climbing for those departing from the park road and heading toward Dark Hollow Trail West. Alternatively, this is the shortest route to hike to Sharp's Station via the Indian Rock Loop Trail, even if it does require more elevation changes. There is a variety of scenery and elevations on this trail, from narrow valleys to higher ridges. It is a very "up and down" type of trail, but gives nice views of hardwoods. Few hikers traverse these back trails -- those seeking solitude will welcome it. However, insects--especially ticks--like nearly all Big Ridge trails, are plentiful.