- Highlights: Views, Audie Murphy Monument
- Distance: 8.1 miles out and back
- Elevation Change: 1,786 feet
- Trail Surface: Dirt and rocks
- Difficulty Level: Moderate/Strenuous
- Trailhead Parking: AT crossing on Miller Cove Road, route 620 in Catawba VA; a small parking area has room for 6-8 vehicles
- Trail Markings: White blazes, signs at trail junctions
- Website: AllTrails
- Beer Pairings: Solstice Farm Brewing—Niday Shelter IPA & Stewart’s Draft IPA
Trail Map:
The Hike:
This hike on the Appalachian Trail to the Audie Murphy Monument approaches from the north. The monument can also be reached on the AT from the south. Both routes are about 8 miles with similar elevation gains. Hiking southbound on the AT has a longer section on the ridge.
From the parking area, follow the white-blazed AT southbound. The trail begins a steady—but gradual—climb up Brush Mountain. In late-April, we saw several partial views through the trees which might disappear when the trees leaf out. After a climb of about 2 miles the AT reaches the ridgeline with several nice views.
Look for a short spur trail on the right at 3.7 miles (there is a small sign pointing to the monument. Audie Murphy was the most decorated soldier in World War II and he died in a plane crash on Brush Mountain in 1974. The “overlook” near the monument has limited views.
AllTrails continues the hike southbound on the AT along the ridge for an additional .3 miles to the summit of Brush Mountain. There are no views from the summit so if you are looking for a shorter hike turn left on the AT to return to the Miller Cove Road parking area.
Hike Photos:
Beer Pairing:
Solstice Farm Brewery is about 20 minutes from the trailhead in Catawba VA. This micro brewery has 12 taps of craft beer, seltzer and snacks are also available along with indoor and outdoor seating. Dogs are welcome outside. The owners are hikers, they grow hops on the farm, and they love beer.
The AT is about one mile north of the brewery so many of the beer names have AT references. Kathy enjoyed a pint of Niday Shelter (6.8 ABV) a west coast IPA brewed with Mosaic and Citra hops. Pete really liked Stewart’s Draft (6.0% ABV) another west coast IPA dry hopped with Idaho Gem and Nelson Savin hops. This was our second visit to the brewery and we are already making plans to return. Hoppy trails.
Hike and drink responsibly. Never drink and drive. Stay safe, be responsible, and leave no trace.