The Counts Cabin trail, located in Dickenson County’s portion of the Jefferson National Forest, atop Pine Mountain, is an 1.8 mile long trail which connects to the longer 22.8 mile Pine Mountain State Scenic Trail. This is an old forest road turned hiking trail that leads to the top of Pine Mountain between Natural Bridge Ledge and Skeet Rock Knob. There is a nice camping spot here under a rock shelter just a couple hundred yards up the trail. If you’re looking for Counts Cabin, the rock shelter is it. Many a hiker has taken shelter at Counts Cabin to rest up for the next day’s adventure.

There is a relatively large parking lot at the trailhead on the junction of SR611 and FR2071.   To find the parking area, from Clintwood in northwestern Dickenson County, go 2.5 miles north on VA 631 to Isom. Then go northeast on VA 611 about 4 miles to the parking area.

The trail is marked with blue blazes and begins at the gate on the west side of the parking lot. It is double track trail and easy to navigate. The area is isolated so bring water, layered clothing and a first aid kit. There are snakes, bears and other wildlife so be aware.