Outdoor Appalachian Adventures

High Knob
This geological feature is the highest point in the Cumberland Mountains and is located just a 15-minute drive from the UVA Wise campus. This option is primarily a driving tour, with stops at the Destination Center, Flag Rock, and the summit.

Devil’s Bathtub Hike
This popular 3.6-mile round-trip hike follows a scenic mountain trail leading to a series of elongated pools formed in sedimentary rock. The trailhead is approximately a 45-minute drive from the UVA Wise campus. The hike is considered moderate, with gradual elevation changes along an uneven trail. Hiking boots or other closed-toe shoes are recommended.

Panel Cave Spelunking
This guided tour explores a wild cave in Natural Tunnel State Park in Scott County, Virginia. It is the most physically demanding of the three options and requires participants to stoop, crawl on all fours for short distances, and maintain balance on uneven surfaces. All participants will be provided with a helmet, headlamp, gloves, and kneepads. Wear clothing and sturdy footwear that can get muddy. Some participants may choose to navigate tighter spaces that involve more strenuous climbing over cave features; this portion is optional. The cave entrance is approximately a 45-minute drive from the UVA Wise campus.