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Old Rag Mountain, VA


Highlights:

1 mile rock scramble, beautiful views from peak, best hike in VA!
Near:Luray, VA
Scenery:
Distance:7 miles round trip
Elevation Gain:2200 ft
Hike Time:4 hours
Difficulty:Strenuous
Trail Condition:OK, but a few difficult spots
HikeType:Loop


Summary: Old Rag Mountain (3291ft) is the most spectacular mountain in the northern Virginia Blue Ridge. Unlike most of the mountains in the Blue Ridge, it stands alone as an outlying mountain rather than as part of a continuous chain. Old Rag is a popular hike in all seasons; on weekends it can be crowded. Old Rag's attractions include a rugged scramble over and through boulders on the Ridge Trail and spectacular views in all direction. This circuit includes two shelters with fireplaces that can be used for cooking. Camping is not permited above 2500 ft.
Trailhead: Take US 522 to SR 231, which is 0.8 mi south of Sperryville, VA and 12.7 mil north of Madison, VA. go south 8.3 mi on SR 231, cross Hughes River, and immediately rutn right (west) onto SR 602. Stary on left side of Hughes River. route number changes to 601, 707, and then 600. do not cross Hughes River. After 3.5 mi from SR 231, just beyond Nethers, VA, and SNP parking area accommodates 200 cars. Park here and walk 0.8 mi to small parking area at end of SR 600. A $5 to $8 fee will be charged for each person over 16. (Lat:38.56 Lon:-78.3)
Trail Guides for Old Rag Mountain, VA:
Circuit Hikes in Shenandoah National Park
by Potomac Appalachain Trail Club  (PATC)

A Hikers Guide to the Geology of Old Rag Mountain
by SNP (www.snpbooks.org)

Map 10
by Potomac Appalachain Trail Club (PATC)

Best Seasons: Year-Round
User Groups: Hikers,
Ranger Contact: National Park Service 1-540-999-3500
Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by Joe Cross, who has posted  56 other hikes on this site
Trail Reviews  Page 1 of 29   Submit your own review
Reviewed by srb on 5/25/2009
I had never been hiking before Old Rag and I had the most amazing time. It has the most beautiful views along the way and it was so much fun. Though it took a bit of time, it was worth it. I can't wait to go again!

Reviewed by Jessica on 4/22/2009
It was the most amazing hike I've ever been on!!!! I'm definitely gonna do it again! I love the views and climbing the boulders along the way and the rocks up top!!!!!!!!! And the summit point is definitely worth the fighting through being tired and, at points, the pain!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Reviewed by ERICTHERED on 4/7/2009
Super hike challenging many places to climb around for fun, the views are awesome, breathtaking, and like no other in virginia I love neil stinebaugh

Reviewed by Scott B. on 1/30/2009
I have hiked Old Rag seven or eight times in my life. The first when I was around six... and the last at 46 in September of 2008, 4 months after a knee replacement! It took me six hours the last time, but I made it, carrying a pack, tripod and SLR camera all the way! The rock scramble was more difficult than I had remembered, but I attribute that to still being unsure and unstable with my new knee. I hiked midweek... and was the first in the parking lot. I had maybe twenty or so people pass me going up. I didn't see anybody going down which was beautiful. I recommend this hike to anybody who enjoys a challenge, but caution those who aren't in shape. I hiked alone and would have liked a partner in some of the sketchy spots. I will return.

Reviewed by Grace on 11/30/2008
An absolutely gorgeous, fabulous hike. I actually prefer it in winter because it is less crowded. It started snowing on our way up which made it a little more difficult but it made the view stunning from the top. I'm definitely doing it again!

Reviewed by Kenny on 11/14/2008
Warning: You cannot have a dog. Drove 80 miles only to walk the anticlimatic (as one reviewer noted) fire trail (only place legal for dogs) Will try it again without the dog - looks like a great hike!

Reviewed by Whit on 9/6/2008
GREAT hike! Ran into a bear (yikes!) but just made it a better day! Have fun with this one, guaranteed to make you break a sweat climbing those rocks!

Reviewed by Viewer on 8/19/2008
This is the most beautiful climb I've ever experienced. I plan to be cremated when I die and my ashes be sent to the winds on the top of old rag mountain. I have never felt such peace and serene. My first climb was in 1969.


Notice: Traveling in the backcountry can be hazardous. You are responsible for informing yourself about these hazards and taking necessary precautions. Information on this web site comes from volunteer reporters and may contain errors or omissions. A current guidebook and proper equipment are essential for safe enjoyment of the hikes posted on this site.
Keys: Virginia Hiking, Virginia Trails, Virginia Hikes, Page County Hiking, Page County Trails, Page County Hikes

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