Green Space

The crest of Valley Mountain is the highest point at Sunset Mountain Village and is valued for its incredible views and fascinating history. We collaborated with the Civil War Preservation Trust and the Rich Mountain Battlefield Foundation to place this three-acre landmark under the protection of a conservation easement, forever preserving its valuable character.

Known locally as “The Knob”, this mountain peak is a place where many Sunset Mountain Village homeowners go to enjoy sunrises and sunsets, to marvel at the millions of stars visible in the night sky, or to simply bask in the land’s peaceful energy. SME, Inc. is excited about protecting this amazing peak as green space and delighted at what the conservation effort means to Sunset Mountain Village, its eco-friendly homeowners, and all who appreciate scenic and historic preservation. In addition to the sheer natural beauty of “The Knob”, ample parking and soon-to-be added natural stone seating provide visitors with an incredible experience.

SMV: Eco friendly, earth friendly, green space, west virginia civil war, robert e lee, robert e. lee, green living, green lifestyle community In addition to its beauty, the Peak of Valley Mountain is historically significant. Early in the Civil War, General Robert E. Lee received his first assignment, the Cheat Mountain Campaign, which was to be headquartered at Valley Mountain. On August 6, 1861 he arrived with his staff and a battalion of Virginia Calvary commanded by his son, Major William Henry Fitzhugh Lee. Lee planned to attack the Federal Army, stationed 33 miles northeast at Cheat Fort Summit. His plan led him to The Knob, which offered him a fantastic vantage point with long-range views. A letter from Lee to his wife on August 9th, 1861, describes his observations over three days….

With so many other historic places lost to time and development, The Knob has been preserved so that the distant echoes of this story may continue to ring. In fact, little has changed since Lee sat here, pen in hand, observing and describing Cheat Fort Summit, the Tygart’s River Valley, the Mingo Flats, Mingo Knob and Elk, Point and Rich Mountains. Today, our residents enjoy remembering the past as well as making new memories in this special place.

These are just a few of the ways our homeowners enjoy The Knob:
Watching sunrise and sunset Star gazing/watching meteor showers Kite flying Yoga/meditation Admiring fall foliage Painting landscapes Photographing landscapes and families/friends/dogs Weddings		Picnics Sledding in winter Wine and cheese gatherings Reading, writing & reflection Proposing Identifying wildflowers Observing wildlife—deer, turkey, hawks & eagles Counting fireflies