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 Reporter |
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 2 of 30 Submit your own review 
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.
Reviewed by clf on 8/17/2008 I really liked the rocks, as I studied geology. Great stuff!!! The view was nice, too. Didn't quite make it up to the very top of old rag, but made it through the first group of rocks at the top. I plan on going back and trying again soon. Started raining when I went, and was kind of late, so turned back.
Reviewed by Brittany on 8/16/2008 We ride Nethers to Weakley Hollow on our horses. It's a nice gravel fire trail the whole way. Going up we take a couple of breaks for the horses' sake. Streams along the way for drinking. Just one steel bridge with no sides. For the hikers... enjoy the views and take a picture of Junior. He has been to the shelter many times, but he is getting wiser. I'm sure you will see him on his rock in the middle of the day. His owner lives next to the parking lot and has no problems letting his dog hike up the trails instead of on the road. So leave him be and give him a pat, he is a sweetheart!
Reviewed by Matt on 8/15/2008 I've hiked Old Rag three times this summer, once in July and twice in August. I plan on making it a third time out this month for good measure. How much do I like it? July was my first ever trip and it was so awesome I can't wait to get back for more! The view is breathtaking and the climb up the rock scramble is one of the most enjoyable excursions I've experienced. Wear good socks (wool) and shoes (sturdy- protection against rocks needed) and bring plenty of water (100oz camelbak is ideal). Snacks and Nuun hydration tabs are suggested. From experience I recommend Ridge Trail up & Weakley down, or Ridge both ways. Weakley fire road is anticlimactic but OK. I found the rock scramble much harder going down than coming up, fun either way 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 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||