woodstock tower observation site

As above. Saw 3 generation family doing the walk to & climb up the tower so it can't be too tough. The drive up is on a curvy, partly paved road. I Would not suggest taking a vehicle with low clearance on the road. Parking is limited at the top. Maybe 8-10 cars at two places to park.

We wanted to check out some of the surrounding areas near JMU and found this little gem by chance. The drive up is no joke - major switchbacks that reminded me of roads around the Bryce Canyon, but exciting nonetheless. The tower wasn't as clearly marked as I hoped it would be, but once we located it, it was an easy walk and worth it for the incredible views.

Drive to top of mountain and then easy hike and great views! Drive down the other side of the mountain and take a tour of Fort Valley which is very pleasant and untouched.

This old fire observation tower seems to have been rebuilt many times. It's presently a steel tower that gets you up above the tree line via a fire-escape sort of stairway.Unless it's early spring or late fall (or someone gets in there and does some heave pruning) you're not likely to see more than one bend of the 'seven bends of the river' that is soon to be a new park there... still, it's a nice view.Met a man and boy using the spot for lunch. Very polite and friendly... just the sort of encounter you'd like in the middle of nowhere. So that was an unexpected add benefit.Be advised that there are no facilities, a very basic trail, and big staircase (~four floors) at the end but, as a disabled vet who uses a cane, I did not find it very challenging - which is good.Windy road for access may be a nail-biter for some... but mind your pace and you'll really enjoy it.

The drive up to this tower is a bit intimidating and scary, but the view is spectacular and worth the trip.

Driving up the tiny one and a half lane road was definitely fun to get up to the watchtower. The hiked was less than a half mile from the parking. The views from up top were excellent.

OMG, OMG, OMG, the view is beyond spectacular. The drive up to the top is long and takes you up a snake shaped road which adds to the drama. Once on top you have trails, a picnic spot, parking and the tower of fear I call it because it is all metal, and I'm terrified of heights. it was so worth it. A must see if you are within an hour of there.

A nice tower to get the view of Shenandoah Valley. The drive on the Woodstock Road is a bit tricky. Once get up to the trail head, it is a easy walk to the tower.