Apple Orchard Mountain facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Apple Orchard Mountain |
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Apple Orchard Mountain in the top center with the distinctive FAA Radome on the summit.
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| Highest point | |
| Elevation | 4,224 ft (1,287 m) |
| Prominence | 2,835 ft (864 m) |
| Geography | |
 Apple Orchard Mountain
Location in Virginia
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| Parent range | Blue Ridge Mountains |
| Topo map | USGS Arnold Valley |
| Climbing | |
| Easiest route | Hike |
Apple Orchard Mountain is a tall peak in the Blue Ridge Mountains in Virginia. It's a special place because it's the highest point in two different counties. It's also the highest spot you'll find along the famous Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia.
This mountain stands out a lot from the land around it. You can often see it from far away. That's because there's a special FAA radar station near its top. This radar helps airplanes fly safely.
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About Apple Orchard Mountain
Apple Orchard Mountain is part of the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains. These mountains are known for their misty, blue appearance. The mountain is located inside the Jefferson National Forest. This forest is a large area of protected land. It's a great place for nature and outdoor activities.
Where is Apple Orchard Mountain?
This mountain sits right on the border of two counties in Virginia. These are Bedford County and Botetourt County. Because of its location, it's the highest point in both of these areas. This makes it a "county highpoint" for both.
What Makes it Special?
Apple Orchard Mountain is important for a few reasons:
- Highest Point on the Parkway: It's the highest spot along the Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia. The Parkway is a scenic road that winds through the mountains.
- Stands Out: It's the most "prominent" mountain in Virginia. This means it rises very sharply from the land around it. It looks very impressive compared to other mountains nearby.
- FAA Radar: Near the top, there's a radar station. This station is run by the Federal Aviation Administration. It helps air traffic controllers track planes. This makes the mountain easy to spot from a distance.
Exploring the Summit
The very top, or summit, of Apple Orchard Mountain is open. This means there aren't many trees blocking the view. This makes it a great spot to see far across the landscape. Many people enjoy hiking to the summit. It's a popular trail for those who love the outdoors.
