The most outstanding feature on this hike is the water gap cut into the Central Blue Ridge by Virginia's longest waterway-the James River. Enjoy tremendous views of the water gap near the summit. The Hike From the unmarked parking area at Blue Ridge Parkway mile 51.7, hike south on the A.T. and begin climbing the northeast slope of Punchbowl Mountain. In .4 mile, reach the .25-mile side trail to Punchbowl Shelter. The shelter has an idyllic setting on the banks of a small pond.
Water is available from a small spring nearby.
Descend .25 mile to a gap and begin climbing Bluff Mountain. Locate the unique plaque in memory of Little Ottie Cline Powell, also on the summit. Descend steeply on switchbacks, then more gradually, and in 1.5 miles, reach the junction with the blue- blazed Belle Cove Trail in Salt Log Gap at mile 3.5. The A.T. continues south along sidehill trail as it skirts Silas Knob, reaching the junction with the blue-blazed Saddle Gap Trail in 1.1 miles at Saddle Gap. Don't miss the short side trail at mile 7 leading to Fullers Rocks, which offers a spectacular view of the James River water gap.