Pignut Mountain

Pignut Mountain is a summit located within Shenandoah National Park in the northern Blue Ridge Mountains, reaching about 2,535 feet in elevation. The peak sits separated from the main ridge system by a deep gap that was carved through centuries of water and weather erosion.

The peak formed millions of years ago as part of the ancient Appalachian range through folding and crystalline rock formation. Erosion along geological fault lines eventually cut the distinctive gap that now separates it from the adjacent ridge.

The mountain territory remains undeveloped, representing the natural heritage of Virginia's portion of the Appalachian Mountain range.

Access to the summit is primarily off-trail and requires navigation through dense forest and underbrush, so sturdy hiking boots are recommended. Overlooks at Thornton Hollow and Rattlesnake Point offer easier vantage points to view the peak without the more challenging bushwhacking route.

The mountain stands separated from the main Blue Ridge chain by an eroded gap, creating a distinct geographical feature in the landscape.