12 O'Clock Knob Overlook overview
12 O'Clock Knob Overlook
One of the unique things about this overlook is its name, which comes from the position of the sun in the sky when viewed from this specific spot at noon. Visitors can enjoy a beautiful view of the Roanoke Valley and the surrounding mountains, including Tinker Mountain and McAfee Knob.
The overlook can be accessed by a short hike from the parking area, which is located off of Route 311. Along the trail, visitors will encounter beautiful wildflowers, wildlife, and stunning rock formations. The trail is rated as moderate to difficult, so comfortable hiking shoes and water are recommended.
In addition to the natural beauty of the area, the 12 O'Clock Knob Overlook has a rich history. During the Civil War, the overlook was used as a lookout point by Confederate soldiers. Visitors can still see remnants of these historic structures and learn about the area's role in the war.
Overall, the 12 O'Clock Knob Overlook is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Virginia. The stunning views, unique history, and natural beauty make it a perfect spot for hiking, photography, and simply taking in the breathtaking scenery of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Plan your visit down to the hour
Same weather feed Snoflo's iOS app uses -- updated continuously from NOAA / yr.no.
Next 5 days, hour by hour
Temperature line with weather symbols on top, snow + rain accumulation as columns, humidity as a dotted line.
5-day forecast table
Every 3 hours, broken out across temperature, snow, rain, humidity, and wind.
| Time | Condition | Temp (°F) | Snow (in) | Rain (in) | Humidity (%) | Wind (mps) | Wind dir |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Loading detailed forecast… | |||||||
15-day temperature & precipitation
Daily temperatures, snow, and rain projected over the next two weeks.
Plan a longer trip
The closest parks, campgrounds, fishing spots, and other landmarks so a quick visit can grow into a full day.
Responsible visitation & Leave No Trace
- Know before you go
- Check the operator's site (BLM, NPS, state agency, or private owner) for access rules, permits, and seasonal closures before driving out.
- Stay on trail
- Many points of interest sit in fragile ecosystems. Stick to marked paths to protect vegetation and prevent erosion.
- Respect wildlife
- Observe from a distance, never feed wildlife, and give nesting birds and denning mammals plenty of space.
- Pack it in, pack it out
- Take all trash, food scraps, and gear back with you. Remote sites often have no trash service.
- Leave what you find
- Don't take rocks, plants, fossils, or artifacts. Federal law protects cultural and natural resources on public land.
Set push alerts in the Snoflo app
Save 12 O'Clock Knob Overlook as a favorite, set a weather threshold (precipitation, freezing temperatures), and the iOS app will push the moment conditions cross.
About 12 O'Clock Knob Overlook
What is 12 O'Clock Knob Overlook?
A point of interest in Virginia tracked by Snoflo -- typically a scenic landmark, named summit, monument, or viewpoint.
How fresh is the weather data?
The hourly forecast updates throughout the day from NOAA / yr.no public feeds.
When is the best time to visit?
Use the 15-day temperature & precipitation outlook on this page to pick a window with comfortable temperatures and low precipitation.
How do I get there?
Tap Directions in the hero above for Google Maps driving directions, or Open in map to center the Snoflo interactive map on the spot.
Can I get alerts when conditions change?
Yes -- alerts are managed in the Snoflo iOS app. Favorite this POI, set a threshold (temperature, precipitation), and you'll get a push the moment it crosses.
Other points of interest near here
Snoflo-tracked landmarks within driving distance of 12 O'Clock Knob Overlook.