Start at the west Pointy Knob Trail sign which begins with an immediate creek crossing.  Follow the blue diamonds throughout the trail across the many rocky and muddy sections.  Finish the slow trail portion where the east Pointy Knob Trail sign meets the Canaan Loop Road.  Run west on Canaan Loop Road (unimproved road) to the starting point at the west Pointy Knob Trail sign.

-GPS data shows 7.73 miles, 689 feet gain

-Alltrails data states 7.1 miles, 905 feet gain

This +-17.5 mile loop circles a large portion of the popular George Washington National Forest (Lee District). The loop comprises nice single track running through mountain laurel, easy double track hunting roads and tricky rock-studded climbs/descents. It is forested throughout but has occasional views to the valleys below, especially in winter and early spring. It is a popular area and is likely to be fairly busy on weekends. Many nice running loops are possible in the area and can be planned out using the great map from the Potomac Appalachian Trail Club (Map F, Great North Mountain).