Skull’s Gap Overlook

Description

Elevation: 3066 ft.

Skull’s Gap Overlook is a small site with a fantastic view. The Iron Mountain Trail is an extensive trail that can be accessed from this site. For wildlife watchers, Skull’s Gap is probably best suited for hawk-watching during fall migration. The scattered woodlands of the area might also produce a few songbirds during both spring and fall. The hillsides are vegetated with flowering shrubs and wildflowers. On a sunny summer day, this is a good spot to find a diversity of butterflies. White-tailed deer and wild turkey might also be seen in the distance from the overlook. Panoramic views are also conducive for spying more elusive wildlife such as bobcat.

Directions

Parking lot coordinates: 36.709216, -81.620944

From Marion, head south on I-81, take exit 35 for Whitetop Rd, turn left onto Whitetop Rd, and follow it to the parking area, which will be on the right in approximately 7.9 miles.