Signal Knob Springs, Fort Valley, Virginia, 22652

## Overview Signal Knob Springs are a pair of natural springs located along the popular Signal Knob Trail in the George Washington National Forest, nestled in the scenic Fort Valley of Shenandoah County, Virginia. Signal Knob itself — the northern terminus of Massanutten Mountain — served as a Confederate signal station during the Civil War, offering commanding views of the Shenandoah Valley. The trail that leads past these springs is one of the most well-known hikes in the region, and the springs have long been a welcome sight for hikers making the climb. Two distinct springs can be found along the trail. The first spring is located just past the Forest Service cabin, where water flows from a pipe and can be heard rushing from the trail. The second spring sits farther up the trail at a point where the path turns sharply to the right and begins a steep climb; here, a cement collection box channels water through a pipe. Visitors have reported that the second spring maintains a reliable flow even during hot summer temperatures, while the first spring near the cabin has been noted to be more intermittent. Both springs are on public land within the George Washington National Forest and are freely accessible — no fees or permits are required. ## Directions 1. From the town of Strasburg or I-66, head south on **Fort Valley Road (Route 678)** into the Fort Valley area of the George Washington National Forest. 2. Continue on Route 678 until you reach the **Signal Knob parking lot** on the right side of the road. 3. From the parking lot, locate the **Signal Knob Trailhead** on the right-hand side of the lot. 4. Follow the trail uphill, crossing a **wooden bridge** early on. 5. Shortly after the bridge, you will reach the **Forest Service cabin** — the **first spring** is just off the trail near this cabin. Listen for the sound of rushing water flowing from a pipe. 6. Continue up the Signal Knob Trail past the cabin. The **second spring** is located farther along the trail at a point where the path **turns sharply to the right and begins climbing steeply**. Look for a **cement collection box with a pipe** on the left side of the trail. This one is described as harder to miss. **GPS Coordinates:** 38.84237, -78.42756 (approximate trailhead/first spring area) ## What to Expect The Signal Knob Trail is a moderately strenuous out-and-back hike (approximately 10.4 miles round trip to the summit), but both springs are encountered relatively early along the route, making them accessible even for those not completing the full hike. The trail passes through mixed hardwood forest typical of the northern Shenandoah Valley, and the surrounding Fort Valley is a striking geological feature — a long, narrow valley enclosed by the ridges of Massanutten Mountain. The first spring near the Forest Service cabin flows from a pipe and is audible from the trail. Its flow has been reported as intermittent, so it may not always be running, particularly in drier seasons. The second spring, housed in a cement collection box with a pipe outlet, has been reported to flow reliably even during summer heat. The trail is well-marked and maintained, though the section beyond the second spring becomes steep and rocky. The parking lot is a standard Forest Service gravel lot with no facilities. The area is open year-round, though winter conditions can make the trail icy and more challenging. Fall foliage season is particularly spectacular in Fort Valley, drawing hikers from across the mid-Atlantic region. While these springs have historically been used by hikers as water sources, water quality has not been independently verified — visitors should use their own discretion regarding consumption.