Stop 11 Foresters Trail
In this rich cove are some very fine examples of northern red oak. In general, oak species are the most important tree group in the Appalachians, providing acorns and shelter for wildlife and a variety of wood products. Northern red oak, however, also provides some of the highest quality lumber, used for making cabinets, furniture, and flooring. On a good site, northern red oak grows tall and straight and reaches maturity in 70 to 80 years. The largest northern red oak in Virginia is in Washington County and has a circumference of 24 inches and is 116 feet tall.