Sharp Top’s B25 Bomber Crash Site: Overview

History: On February 2, 1943, a B-25D Mitchell Bomber (aircraft 129828) from Columbia Army Air Base crashed into Sharp Top Mountain, Virginia, during a low-level nighttime training mission, tragically killing young five airmen.

Length: 3.5 miles

Elevation Gain: 1,500 feet

Difficulty: Challenging

Hiking Time: 2 to 3.5 hours

Route Type: Out-and-back

In honor of the young men’s sacrifice, a memorial was erected at the crash site on February 2, 2001, ensuring their legacy is remembered and their bravery never forgotten.

Directions and Parking

The hike towards the B25 bomber crash site begins along the Sharp Top Trail.

The Sharp Top Trailhead is located across the street from the Peaks of Otter Visitor Center off the Blue Ridge Parkway (milepost 86).

The trailhead has a big parking lot that can hold about 20-30 vehicles.

Amenities at the trailhead include the Sharp Top Store, restrooms, and drinking water – available seasonally.

If the Sharp Top Trailhead parking area is full, you can park at the visitor center. Just be careful crossing the road!

Distance to Sharp Top Trailhead from nearby cities/towns:

• Bedford, VA: About 10 miles (20 minutes’ drive)
• Roanoke, VA: About 30 miles (50 minute’s drive)
• Lynchburg, VA: About 35 miles (50 minutes’ drive)
• Blacksburg, VA: About 70 miles (1 hour and 15 minutes’ drive)
• Charlottesville, VA: About 100 miles (1 hour and 40 minutes’ drive)

Tips for Hiking to the B25 Bomber Crash Site

Finding the site is relatively easy – it’s just a short but steep detour near Sharp Top’s summit. Adding about 0.5 miles to your hike to Sharp Top, this side trail isn’t officially marked, and the path may not be as well-maintained as the main trail.

My husband and I hiked to the crash site during the fall, so the trail was tricky to follow due to it being covered by leaves. But we still found the plane without too much difficulty!

Prepare for a Steep Ascent: The detour to the crash site adds about 0.5 miles, but the trail is steep and rugged. Ensure you’re in good physical condition and ready for a challenging climb.

Wear Proper Footwear: Sturdy, supportive hiking shoes (or boots) with good traction are essential, as the trail is quite rocky and uneven, especially near the crash site.

Check the Weather: Weather conditions can change quickly in the mountains. Check the forecast before your hike and be prepared for sudden rain or temperature drops.

Bring Water and Snacks: Stay hydrated, especially during the ascent. Pack plenty of water and energy-boosting snacks for the hike!

Know Your Limits: If you’re not used to steep, strenuous hikes, you may want to think twice before tackling this trek. The hike to Sharp Top’s summit is already a challenging ascent, and there will be more elevation gain when returning from the crash site which makes the climb even more demanding. It’s important to consider your fitness level and be prepared for the additional effort required to navigate this steep hike.

Bring a Map or GPS: While the trail to the crash site is not too hard to find, it’s not officially marked. Having a map or GPS will help guide you and ensure you stay on track.

Seasonal Considerations: In the fall and winter, the trail can be covered with leaves or snow, making it harder to navigate. Keep an eye on the ground and watch your footing.

Have a Companion: It’s always safer to hike with a buddy, especially on less-maintained trails. Having someone with you ensures help is available in case of an emergency.

Be Bear Aware: Black bears are active within Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains. Follow these guidelines to avoid any negative interactions with a black bear.

Tell Family/Friends Your Plans: Let your family and friends know your plans before heading out, including your intended route and estimated return time. Since the trail to the crash site lacks official markers, it’s easy to lose your way. If someone is aware of your general location, it will help search-and-rescue teams find you more quickly. But let’s hope that doesn’t happen!

Leave No Trace: Please be respectful when visiting the site and refrain from disturbing or removing any remnants of the plane. The wreckage serves as a solemn tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of the young men.

How to Find the Bomber Crash Site: Step-by-step Directions

Sharp Top Trail

Start your hike from the Sharp Top Trailhead parking area.

Follow the Sharp Top Trail – it’s a steep ascent so pace yourself and take breaks as needed.

You will eventually come to an intersection with a trail sign pointing in two directions – one way to Sharp Top and the other to Buzzard’s Roost.

Follow the side trail

At this intersection, take a right as if you are going towards Buzzard’s Roost.

Now, look towards your left. There should be a side trail in this area near the trail sign. The side trail should be easy to spot if it’s not covered in leaves or snow.

Follow this trail down the mountain. Be careful as it is steep and there are no official trail markers!

B25 bomber crash site

In just under 0.25 miles, you will encounter the first piece of the wreckage – the plane’s engine.

Continue a little further along the trail, and you’ll come across the rest of the crash site, where more remnants of the plane can still be found scattered throughout the area.

As you continue down the trail, the final landmark you’ll encounter is a memorial plaque set into a rock.

This plaque was dedicated on February 2, 2001, marking the 58th anniversary of the B25 bomber crash. It serves as a tribute to those who lost their lives in the crash.

Visit Sharp Top’s summit and Buzzard’s Roost

Retrace your steps back up the mountain toward the trail junction. If you haven’t yet visited the summit of Sharp Top or Buzzard’s Roost, it’s worth taking the time to check them out!

If you’ve already been to both, simply follow the Sharp Top Trail back down to the parking area.

Congrats, you did it! 🥳

Discover More Hikes Near Sharp Top

1. Harkening Hill and Johnson Farm (Peaks of Otter)

The Harkening Hill loop trail winds through lush forests, leading to a summit with peaceful views of the surrounding landscape. Along the way, you can explore the historic Johnson Farm, a preserved homestead showcasing Appalachian life in the 19th century.

• Trailhead Location
• Length: 4 miles
• Elevation Gain: 900 feet
• Difficulty: Moderately challenging
• Route Type: Loop
• Hiking Time: 2 to 3 hours
• Pet-friendly? Yes, must be on leash
• Trail Map

2. Flat Top Mountain (Peaks of Otter)

Flat Top, part of the Peaks of Otter, offers a rewarding hike to breathtaking panoramic views. The trail winds through hardwood forests, showcasing vibrant wildflowers in spring and stunning foliage in fall.

• Trailhead Location
• Length: 4.5 miles
• Elevation Gain: 1,700 feet
• Difficulty: Challenging
• Route Type: Out-and-back
• Hiking Time: 2.5 to 4 hours
• Pet-friendly? Yes, must be on leash
• Trail Map

3. Fallingwater Cascades (Peaks of Otter)

Fallingwater Cascades features a picturesque loop trail leading to a stunning waterfall. Surrounded by lush forest, it’s a peaceful retreat for nature lovers.

• Trailhead Location
• Length: 1.5 miles
• Elevation Gain: 450 feet
• Difficulty: Moderately challenging
• Route Type: Loop
• Hiking Time: 1 to 1.5 hours
• Pet-friendly? Yes, must be on leash
• Trail Map

4. Apple Orchard Falls

Apple Orchard Falls offers a scenic hike to a majestic 200-foot cascade. The trail winds through vibrant forests, offering beautiful views and seasonal wildflowers.

• Trailhead Location
• Length: 2.6 miles
• Elevation Gain: 1,000 feet
• Difficulty: Challenging
• Route Type: Out-and-back
• Hiking Time: 1.5 to 2.5 hours
• Pet-friendly? Yes, must be on leash
• Trail Map

5. Devil’s Marbleyard

Devil’s Marbleyard is a unique hiking destination featuring a massive boulder field surrounded by rugged mountain scenery. This adventurous trail rewards climbers with stunning panoramic views.

• Trailhead Location
• Length: 3.5 miles
• Elevation Gain: 1,400 feet
• Difficulty: Challenging
• Route Type: Out-and-back
• Hiking Time: 2.5 to 3.5 hours
• Pet-friendly? Yes, must be on leash
• Trail Map

6. Hay Rock

Hay Rock offers a scenic hike along the Appalachian Trail, featuring sweeping views of Carvins Cove and the Roanoke Valley. The trail is perfect for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.

• Trailhead Location
• Length: 8 miles
• Elevation Gain: 1,500 feet
• Difficulty: Moderately challenging
• Route Type: Out-and-back
• Hiking Time: 4 to 5 hours
• Pet-friendly? Yes, must be on leash
• Trail Map

7. McAfee Knob

McAfee Knob, one of Virginia’s most iconic hikes, features a stunning rock overhang with panoramic views of the Catawba Valley. It’s a must-see spot on the Appalachian Trail.

• Trailhead Location
• Length: 8 miles
• Elevation Gain: 1,800 feet
• Difficulty: Challenging
• Route Type: Out-and-back
• Hiking Time: 4 to 6 hours
• Pet-friendly? Yes, must be on leash
• Trail Map

Conclusion

Visiting the B25 bomber crash site on Sharp Top Mountain offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance. While the hike itself rewards you with stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the true impact of the journey lies in the opportunity to reflect on the brave young airmen who lost their lives there during World War II.

This solemn yet powerful site serves as a reminder of the past, and it’s a place to honor their sacrifice while connecting with history. If you decide to visit, take a moment to appreciate the significance of the site and follow Leave No Trace principles to help preserve this hidden gem for future generations.

If this guide inspires you to find Sharp Top’s B25 bomber crash site, I’d love to hear about your adventure. Leave a comment and share your experience!