Flag Rock in Mid-October

Oct 13

Overview. This is a short walk to a developed and fenced overlook above the City of Norton. The forest composition is among the most beautiful for fall colors and my favorite pocket of forest in SWVA sits to the right (west) as you walk to the lower viewing area. Along the trail, you’ll see the Woodbooger statue - the local name for sasquatch/bigfoot.

Route Type | Out and Back
Total Distance | 0.22 miles
Elevation Gain | 33 feet
Overall Difficulty | Easy

GPS Waypoints
Trailhead | 36.919331, -82.626958
Flag Rock Overlook | 36.9199917,-82.6277222
Flag Rock Area Trail Map (2020)

Parking. Limited parking is available near the trailhead with trash receptacles. This lot fills up from time to time, but folks shuffle in and out quickly. You’ll pass bathrooms (open seasonally) on the drive to the parking area.

Trail Navigation. Locate the infoboard at the downhill side of the cul-de-sac and follow the wide trail out to the overlook, passing Woodbooger in the process. Cross the old metal footbridge (1974?) and enjoy the upper and lower viewing platforms while staying behind the fences. Flag Rock is visible from the lower platform as you look down to the city of Norton. Retrace your steps to return to the parking area.

HIKER NOTE - Sunset. This is my preferred spot for a quick sunset from February through October near town.

HIKER NOTE - Sunrise Natural View. The view here is natural - meaning the area surrounding the overlook isn’t cut to provide an artificial view like High Knob. If you visit in the morning with fog obscuring the city, the scene appears all natural without having to drive or hike deep into the woods.

CAUTION - Deadly Drops. Long falls from high places are the #1 non-health related cause of death for hikers in Kentucky. Keep your distance from the edges of cliffs to avoid a deadly fall. Young children should be kept close.

CAUTION - Poisonous Snakes. Copperheads and timber rattlesnakes can be found in the area. Should you encounter one, stop and slowly back away. Always give venomous snakes a wide berth. Know Before You Go => University of Kentucky Venomous Snake Guide

CAUTION - Black Bears. Ursus Americanus - a.k.a. the American black bear is growing in population throughout much of Kentucky. Know Before You Go => US Forest Service Black Bear Safety Tips