Big Schloss facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Big Schloss |
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| Highest point | |
| Elevation | 2,964 ft (903 m) |
| Geography | |
 Big Schloss
Location in Virginia
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| Parent range | Ridge and Valley Appalachians |
| Topo map | USGS Wardensville, Wolf Gap, Woodstock |
| Climbing | |
| Easiest route | Hike |
Big Schloss is a cool mountain peak in the Ridge and Valley Appalachians. It stands tall at about 2,964 feet (903 meters) high. You can find this peak in the George Washington National Forest. It sits right on the border between Virginia and West Virginia in the United States.
Big Schloss is famous for its amazing views. It has a big, rocky top made of white sandstone. From here, you can see far into the beautiful Trout Run Valley in West Virginia. You can also spot Little Schloss Mountain in Virginia.
What's in a Name?
Did you know Big Schloss got its name from early German settlers? They lived in this area many years ago. The word "Schloss" means "castle" in German. The settlers thought the rocky top of the mountain looked like a castle. So, they called it Big Schloss, or "Big Castle"! German was a common language spoken here for a long time.
Hiking to the Top
Many fun hiking trails lead up to Big Schloss. One popular way to start is from Wolf Gap. You can take the Mill Mountain trail from there. Another option is a longer loop hike that begins from FDR Route 92.
The trails to Big Schloss are taken care of by the Potomac Appalachian Trail Club. This group works hard to keep the paths clear and safe for hikers. To reach the very top, there's a special bridge. This bridge helps you get onto the rocky "castle" part of the mountain. In 2010, the old bridge was replaced with new stairs and handrails to make it even safer.
