Powell Valley Overlook
36.9130806, -8236696299
Norton, VA 24273
Powell Valley Overlook offers one of the most scenic views in Virginia. The Overlook is located at Little Stone Gap, a significant wind gap in the High K**b Massif and landform ( along the northbound side of the Country Music Highway, Route 23 ). The view is one of a grand geological wonder, as the majestic Powell Valley of Wise Cou
nty, Va., narrows by headward erosion into a great inverted V-shaped valley surrounded by towering mountain walls. Mountains visible left of the Overlook mark the lofty edge of the sprawling High K**b Massif, remnant highcountry of the High K**b Landform ( * ). Mountains visible right of the Overlook form the northwestern flank of the HKL, which can be followed all the way to Cumberland Gap National Historical Park ( and beyond ). The Valley here marks the northeastern most breach in the core of this ancient mountain landform, being continuous with the Powell River Valley of Lee County, Va., and northern Tennessee. Miles of great calcareous cliffs, visible ringing the Valley, add rugged majesty to this spectacular setting.
*It is 14.6 air miles from Powell Valley Overlook ESE to the union of Wise, Scott, and Russell counties on the other side of the massif.
