Knob Mountain – Jeremy's Run Loop

Knob Mountain–Jeremy's Run Loop is a 13.3-mile circuit from Elkwallow, linking a short Appalachian Trail approach, the wooded Knob Mountain ridge, and a long return beside Jeremy's Run. It's a good pick for a full day of forest hiking and stream crossings. If you're looking for open summit views, this isn't the one: the best looks out toward Strickler Knob and Three Sisters come only through occasional gaps on the descent. The full mapped circuit includes the Elkwallow access and comes out longer than some older estimates, so plan for about 13 miles. Allow around 8–10 hours with breaks.

From Elkwallow, take the Appalachian Trail to the blue-blazed Jeremy's Run Trail, then stay with the creek to the Knob Mountain Cutoff. Cross the Run and climb to the yellow-blazed Knob Mountain Trail. After the ridge, descend to Jeremy's Run again and follow its trail north toward the Appalachian Trail and Elkwallow. The upper creek approach and Appalachian Trail are shared in both directions. There is also a separate, much shorter six-mile Knob Mountain–Jeremy's Run circuit; it turns onto the cutoff sooner and returns by the campground road and Elkwallow Trail. Don't use that route's directions or mileage for this longer loop.

The sharpest climb is on the switchbacked connector from the creek to Knob Mountain Trail: roughly 350 feet in less than half a mile. The ridge climb eases after that, but you're still gaining ground through forest. A concrete post marks the summit, which has no open view. This is a long wooded ridge walk rather than a summit lookout hike.

The descent is steep in places and uses several switchbacks. Tree gaps occasionally open toward Strickler Knob and the Three Sisters. Those views are intermittent, and leaf-off season can make them easier to spot. Most of the ridge stays under trees, so don't expect a continuous panorama.

The creek section is the route's other defining stretch: a long forest walk with repeated crossings, then a gradual climb back toward the start. The exact crossing count varies between route accounts, but expect to step across water many times. In spring and after heavy rain, crossings can rise to knee or waist depth. If the water looks unsafe, don't try to force a crossing. Carry water for the day or treat creek water; there is no confirmed potable water service on the loop.

Elkwallow Wayside at the start has restrooms, drinking water, and grab-and-go food when it is operating, typically from April into early November. There are no confirmed staffed facilities along the route. This can be a long day hike, or a backcountry overnight with the required NPS permit and a legal established site. Dogs are allowed on leash, no longer than six feet.