The trailhead is at Davenport Gap at point A. The Appalachian Trail proceeds west from Davenport Gap into the park. From the point of view of the overall Appalachian Trail, this is the southbound direction. Mt. Sterling Road is the park boundary for this part of the park, and the parking area is therefore just outside of the park. Immediately after getting on the trail westbound (southbound), you are in the park.
Point B is the intersection of the Appalachian Trail with the Chestnut Branch Trail, and point C is the trailhead for the Chestnut Branch Trail at the Big Creek Ranger Station.
To get to the trailhead, exit from I-40 at the Waterville Road exit at point D, cross the Pigeon River, and follow Waterville Road to Mt. Sterling Road just before the Big Creek Ranger Station. The bridge across the Pigeon River is at the end of the exit ramp from the Interstate. The Appalachian Trail crosses the Pigeon River at the same bridge. At the intersection of Waterville Road with Mt. Sterling Road, turn right and follow Mt. Sterling Road to the trailhead at Davenport Gap at point A.
