The Mount Pleasant National Scenic Area is located in Amherst County, VA. It features two great loops that both start at Hog Camp Gap. These loops can be done separately in individual day trips or combined to form a one night backpacking trip.
If doing the hike as an overnighter, start with the Mount Pleasant Loop on the Henry Lanum Trail. This 5.5 mile loop goes over Pompey Mountain and includes a spur trail to the Mt. Pleasant summit.
After returning to Hog Camp Gap, take the Old Hotel Trail south to begin the Cold Mountain Loop. This 5.8 mile loop includes the Cow Camp Gap Appalachian Trail shelter. After arriving back at the AT, go north towards Hog Camp Gap. There are some beautiful open meadows in the saddle of Cold Mountain.
If your first day needs to be the shorter day, simply start with the Cold Mountain Loop and then add the Mount Pleasant Loop onto day 2.
The recommended map for this hike is PATC's Map 13 - Tye River to James River.
Directions: From US Route 60, go north on Coffeytown Road (SR 634) for roughly 1.6 miles. Turn right onto Wiggins Spring Road (SR 755). After 2.7 miles, parking for Hog Camp Gap will be on your left. There is additional parking along the road.
Hog Camp Gap has a big open field right along the AT and beside Wiggins Spring Road. It is great for camping, especially if you arrive after dark.