Pinnacle Natural Area Preserve

Pinnacle Natural Area Preserve covers forested areas, open meadows, and rocky cliffs across varied terrain within the Clinch River watershed. The preserve combines diverse landscape features that create a mix of different natural zones.

Geological processes over millions of years shaped the dolomite formations and underground cave structures throughout the area. These natural forces created the landscape that visitors see today.

The name comes from the Pinnacle, a distinctive dolomite rock formation that towers above Big Cedar Creek and anchors the local landscape identity.

Marked hiking trails are open year-round from sunrise to sunset, with parking available at the entrance area. A suspension footbridge provides access across a creek and connects different sections of the preserve.

The preserve is home to the Big Cedar Creek millipede, a species found only in this location and a few nearby areas. This endemic creature exists nowhere else in the world.

Location: Virginia

GPS coordinates: 36.95900,-82.05200

Latest update: December 14, 2025 11:05