The Department of Conservation and Recreation and Department of Forestry dedicated this state natural area preserve in April of 2008.  At the crest of the mountain, within the Natural Area Preserve, are the Great Channels of Virginia, impressive formations of 400-million-year-old sandstone outcroppings. Geologists conclude that the Channels were likely formed while the high elevation sandstone cap was under the influence of permafrost and ice wedging during the last ice age. These forces shattered and enlarged joints in the sandstone caprock.

The 721-acre Channels Natural Area Preserve is part of a 4,836 acre State Forest that was purchased by the Virginia Department of Forestry from The Nature Conservancy in March 2008.

VISITATION:
This natural area preserve is owned by the Virginia Department of Forestry and open sunrise to sunset. Please contact the Abingdon office of the Virginia Department of Forestry for addtional information