Pine Mountain Trailheads
With Vehicle Access
Russell Fork Trailhead
The northern-most terminus of the Pine Mountain State Scenic Trail is the Russell Fork River gorge in the Breaks Interstate Park. This lowest elevation of the Pine Mountain Trail is near the end of Carson Island Road accessed off Route 80 near the Elkhorn City Hall.
Birch Knob Trailhead
Midway of the 26 mile Birch Knob Trail is the Birch Knob Trailhead. Though difficult, vehicle access is from the Virginia (south) side of Pine Mountain out of Clintwood, VA. The Birch Knob Shelter has water access and a moldering privy nearby. The Birch Knob Observation Deck is located here at the highest elevation on the Birch Knob Trail.
US 23 Pound Gap Trailhead
Conveniently separating the Birch Knob Trail and the Highlands Trail is an access point at Pound Gap on US 23 near the crest of Pine Mountain. Located here is a convenience store for gas and supplies. Parking is available in the parking lot of the Mountain Life Church on Apostolic Drive on the hill above the Gap and at the trailhead.
US 119 Trailhead
The US 119 trailhead near the town of Whitesburg, is at the crest of Pine Mountain and US Route 119. Access is to the south end of the Highlands Trail and the north end of the Little Shepherd Trail. Secure parking and a vaulted toilet are available.
Kingdom Come Trailhead
Currently the most southern part of the Pine Mountain State Scenic Trail is here in Kingdom Come State Park. The Black Bear Shelter with nearby water and a vaulted toilet, along with other Park amenities, provides a great beginning or ending to your hike.