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The grueling bike ride or hike to the top of Pinnacle Mountain is not for the faint of heart, but the panoramic view from the fire tower and fast ride down is completely worth it.
Pinnacle Mountain is a long, grinding climb to the top. The singletrack winds up 1,500 feet of elevation for nearly 5 miles with few downhill sections. Once at the top, take a rest and climb the fire tower that overlooks the Downtown Johnson City area, Elizabethton, Erwin, and the rest of the Buffalo Mountain Range. The fun, flowy ride down makes the tough grind up the mountain completely worth it.
Access the trail off Interstate 26 Exit 32. Pinnacle Mountain Trailhead and parking lot is .2 miles northwest from the exit (just follow the signs). There is a wooden hut with bathrooms as well as an area to picnic. The trail is also shared with a few number of hikers.
The trail itself is well-marked, decently maintained, and features several switchbacks and berms. The view from the top of the fire tower is one of the best in the area.