Flagpole Knob / Union Springs

If you’re an off-road enthusiast in Virginia, this trail near Harrisonburg is a must-experience adventure. This scenic and moderately challenging route takes you through the heart of the George Washington National Forest.

Exploring Flagpole Knob / Union Springs: A Must-Drive Off-Road Trail Near Harrisonburg, VA

If you’re an off-road enthusiast in Virginia, the Flagpole Knob / Union Springs trail near Harrisonburg is a must-experience adventure. This scenic and moderately challenging route takes you through the heart of the George Washington National Forest, offering breathtaking mountain views, rugged terrain, and a rewarding summit at Flagpole Knob, which stands at 4,398 feet.

Trail Overview

• Location: George Washington National Forest, near Harrisonburg, VA
• Trail Length: Approximately 12-15 miles (depending on the route)
• Difficulty Level: Moderate
• Terrain: Rocky paths, mud holes, water crossings, and forest roads
• Vehicle Requirements: 4WD or AWD with decent ground clearance recommended
• Time to Complete: 3-5 hours, depending on weather and stops

Getting There

The trail can be accessed via Union Springs Road near Rawley Springs. Many off-roaders prefer starting from this side due to the challenging terrain and rockier ascent. Alternatively, some take the easier Dunkle Hollow route for a more relaxed climb to Flagpole Knob.

What to Expect on the Trail

The Union Springs side is where the fun begins! Expect rocky sections that require careful tire placement, small to moderate water crossings, and plenty of mud holes after rain. The trail winds through dense forest areas before opening up to stunning overlooks. Once you reach the summit at Flagpole Knob, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the Shenandoah Valley—perfect for a break, photos, and even camping.

Best Time to Visit

While the trail is open year-round, the best times to go are spring, summer, and fall when the weather is more predictable, and the views are stunning. Winter trips can be thrilling, but snow and ice can significantly increase the difficulty level.

Essential Gear & Safety Tips

• Recovery Gear: A tow strap, traction boards, and a winch (if available) are smart to bring, especially if traveling alone.
• Tire Pressure: Airing down your tires improves traction and ride comfort over rocky sections.
• Navigation: A GPS or offline trail maps are helpful as cell service can be spotty.
• Camping: Dispersed camping is allowed near the summit, but follow Leave No Trace principles.
• Weather Check: Rain can make the trail significantly more difficult, so plan accordingly.

Directions from I-81 to Union Springs Trailhead

1. Get to Harrisonburg Area

Travel on I-81 and take an exit for Harrisonburg / VA-33 West.

Continue west on VA-33, heading toward Harrisonburg.

2. Reach the Base of the Trail

From Harrisonburg, continue west on VA-33 about 20 miles toward the trail access near Switzer Lake Road.

3. Turn onto Union Springs Road (Trail Access)

Look for the Union Springs exit, then turn onto Union Springs Road / Trail. This is the more technical, rocky ascent.

4. Trail Route

Starting from Union Springs (lower elevation), the trail climbs northward, passing Meadow Knob (a great lunch/camp spot), then continues up to Flagpole Knob summit along narrow, rocky, and occasionally muddy terrain.

This path is known to be tight and technical, especially on the climb—many drivers advise careful line selection and may need a spotter on tricky sections.

5. Exit Options

If desired, upon reaching the top (near Flagpole Knob), you can exit via Forest Service Road 85 leading down to Briery Branch Gap, where you can rejoin VA-33 or head south toward Reddish Knob.

Links to Other Pages

Final Thoughts

Flagpole Knob / Union Springs is a fantastic off-road destination offering a mix of challenges and scenic beauty. Whether you’re a seasoned off-roader or a beginner looking for a moderate trail, this route provides the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.

Have you tackled Flagpole Knob? Share your experience in the comments below!

Some additional videos on Flagpole/ Union Springs trail.