Twin Pinnacles via Big Pinnacles Trail

To reach the Big Pinnacle Trail Head, park at the Massie Gap Day Parking area, and then follow the road west (away from Massie Gap) until you reach the trail head located on the left side of the road.  Follow the Big Pinnacles Trail for 0.4 miles until it intersects with the Twin Pinnacles Trail.  The trail to the right will lead you to the Outlooks faster.  From the junction, follow the trail 0.3 miles until you reach Big Pinnacles Outlook.  

Big Pinnacles is located on the right side of the trail but it is not as large of an outlook as Little Pinnacles (ironically enough), but it has some rocks to scramble up to get an unobstructed view of the Highlands and Wilburn Ridge to the north.  

To reach the second outlook, Little Pinnacles, follow the trail along the ridge line for another 0.1 miles, and it will be located on the right side of the trail right before the trail begins to descend.  Little Pinnacles Outlook also has a few rocks that you can scramble up to help get above some of the plants and trees for an unobstructed view to the west and southwest.  But the view from the base of the rocks is also outstanding.  This view has so many mountain ranges and valleys, which could be used to add layers and depth to your images. Little Pinnacles is an ideal location for photographing sunsets because of the views to the west and southwest.

After enjoying the amazing view follow the Twin Pinnacles Trail down the mountain for 0.3 miles until the trail splits.  If you would like to stop at the Visitor Center, turn right, but if not, turn left and continue to follow the Twin Pinnacles Trail for 0.9 mile until you reach the Big Pinnacles Trail junction. Turn right at the junction, and follow the Big Pinnacles Trail 0.4 miles back to your vehicle, completing the 2.4 mile loop. 

If you are going to be photographing the sunset, remember to bring a headlamp or flashlight for the hike back to your vehicle.  Also, if you are like me and have small kids, this is an outstanding beginner hike for them. It’s short, not too steep, and has two great vistas for them to enjoy.