No experience of the “true” Blue Ridge is complete without a trip or two to the James River Face Wilderness that lies embedded in the curves of the James River. This route follows the Appalachian Trail from the first parking area on the Blue Ridge Parkway, and first crosses over Highcock Knob for views of these mist-shrouded peaks. Passing by the Sulphur Springs Trail, continue on the AT over Hickory Stand and down the snakelike path over the ridge. Catch splendid views of the roaring James below as the path cuts through the valley and past a Forest Service Facility. The final portion of this route hugs the edge of the river on its way to a quaint footbridge across the water to arrive in Snowden, VA.