Once at the top, the trail runs the length of Fore Mountain. It switches from one side of the ridge to the other several times on the journey east. There are many clearings and ponds along the trail that offer good views and peaceful resting spots. Each of the clearings offer something different for the hiker to enjoy. Some are open and sunny with views to the north and south, while others are shady and cool with limited views even during leaf off. Most of these clearings would make good campsites as long as they were kept away from the ponds and a no trace ethic was practiced. This section also intersects the Dry Run Trail at mile 6. Dry Run Trail is also known as Skyline Trail and there may still be old signs at the intersection with skyline written on them.

After leaving the last wildlife clearing on the northeast end of Fore Mountain the trail turns right and winds down the side of the mountain in a series of long and fairly steep switchbacks. The trail intersects FDR 337, White Oak Flats Road, and is the beginning of a gentler descent. On a side journey south on FDR 337, about a mile or so, the hungry hiker will find red raspberries and blackberries ready to be eaten (seasonally).

From FDR 337 the trail again follows a series of switchbacks to an intermittent stream and eventually to State Route 606. You have now hiked ten miles. The last three miles to the top of the Pine Spur Ridge is a pleasant hike. Cross Smith Creek and hike up the long switchbacks with some beautiful views of McGraw Hollow, Big Lick Hollow and the Clifton Forge area. The Alleghany/Bath County line is only a few hundred yards past the ridge top. This is the end of the Fore Mountain Trail, but the path continues on as Middle Mountain Trail to Douthat Lake in Douthat State Park. After about one mile turn right into the park on the trail that will lead you to the lake and campground. From the country line to Douthat is approximately five miles.

Overall this trail is in pretty good condition. There are a couple trouble spots where tread is partially washed out and trees block the trail, but the hike offers great views and some good wildlife viewing opportunities. Since this is a thirteen mile hike that can be extended to eighteen by hiking to Douthat State Park. I recommend making it a two day hike. There are no potable sources of water along the trail so bring enough for a two day hike. If you do plan to hike it in one day it will take

Parking is available at the trail head on Smoke Bear Lane in Covington, and on SR 606 north of Clifton Forge about 1/10 mile west of FDR 587(the access road for the Clifton Forge Reservoir). Additional parking along FDR 587