Mill Creek

The Mill Creek area is a high-elevation valley between the crests of Pearis and Wolf Creek mountains, along which are numerous rocky outcroppings. The most prominent features are Angels Rest and Sentinel Point, which provide impressive views of Peters Mountain, Salt Pond Mountain, and the New River Valley. Steep cliffs and rocky overhangs ensure the isolation of the area, and nearly impenetrable vegetation scattered throughout adds to the sense of remoteness. On the north end of the area, a steep gorge is carved into Wolf Creek Mountain, where Mill Creek exits the valley on its way to the New River. The area includes 8 miles ot the Appalachian Trail, and the Docs Knob Shelter. Displays of wild azaleas along the AT are spectacular in the spring, and the area contains 143 acres of potential old growth.

Within this scenic area is most of the Mill Creek watershed. On the east side of the area is Mercy Branch, which is a designated special management area. The area is bisected by two high-voltage power lines. A semi-primitive core of 2,197 acres exists in the area west of the power lines. This western area meets the Forest Service standards for low road density and naturalness; conservationists maintain this area qualifies as roadless.

Approximate Size: 5,997 acres
Location: Giles County, southwest of Pearisburg, Blacksburg Ranger District
Topos: Narrows, Pearisburg .