Rock Castle Gorge sits just under one of the many overlooks you can find along Rock Castle Gorge Trail, which travels along the Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia, near Roanoke. The 11-mile moderate loop contains constantly evolving scenery, with plenty of mountain top views, and leads you through everything from cow pastures and meadow scenery to rippling streams. Wildlife has a large presence throughout the trail, and you might glimpse the broad-winged hawk or wild turkey. Red fox, coyote, bobcat, and black bear make a home nearby but are rarely seen by hikers. Be prepared for a few climbs, but also keep in mind that any steep parts are well worth the view ahead.
You can find a detailed description of the trail here: http://www.planetanimals.com/logue/Rokcastl.html, and directions and information at this site: http://www.virginia.org/Site/description.asp?AttrID=39349
