Rich Hole Addition
Approximate Size: 9908 acres
Location: Alleghany and Bath Counties, Virginia in the James River and Warm Springs Districts
Topos: Longdale Furnace, Millboro, Nimrod Hall
Rich Hole addition contains mountain ridges with parallel drainages in a contorted arrangement, with spur ridges and associated small drainages falling from the major ridge. Elevations range from about 1200 feet near the Cowpasture River to over 3300 feet on the top of Mill Mountain. Slopes vary from moderate to very steep and are dissected by numerous small and moderately sized streams.
Due to its location adjacent to the Rich Hole Wilderness, consideration should be considered wilderness protection.
Because of the rugged nature of Mill Ridge, there is only one, little used trail in the area. The White Rocks Tower Trail parallels the Rich Hole Wilderness boundary to the crest of Mill Mountain and then follows the ridge to FDR 333. Hunting is the primary recreational activity of the area. Mill Mountain's rugged terrain and remote location help to foster a healthy bear population. This area may contain 2376 acres of possible old growth present mainly along the long ridge line.
To limit user conflicts the proposed study area should exclude the White Rocks Tower Trail. FDR 362 (Orebank Road) she be excluded from the wilderness boundary to ensure that this road remain available as hunter access. Also, the Bubbling Springs Recreation Area, a small picnic and camping site on Pads Creek Road should also be excluded from the boundary of this area.