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Such a hard hike if you do the loop but so rewarding! If you do the loop - 9.7 miles - it's roughly 4.5 - 6 hours depending on how fast you're going. Lots of rock scrambling on the first half and then downhill the rest. I would not do this unless you have at least 2-3 water bottles per person. $30 for a national park day pass and you need to buy the $2 per person old Rag pass before hiking. Do it the day before - there's no service in the area. Also no food or potable water. So be aware, you need to bring snacks and plenty of water with you.
We came to Shenandoah National Park solely to climb Old Rag Mountain. While you definitely have to dedicate your day to this more strenuous, approx 9 mile hike, it was 100% worth it. Planning your hike in advance is necessary because they now use a permit system to gain access to Old Rag. Tickets become available (I believe) 30 days in advance and are a nominal $1/person to reserve. Our hike was on a low-volume day, so we didn't experience any crowding. But I'd imagine this definitely helps reduce congestion on busier days. When getting to Old Rag Mountain, if you're using Google Maps, make sure to put in "Old Rag Mountain Parking" versus "Old Rag Mountain" because maps ended up taking us to a different entrance versus the main entrance for the hike. As I said, this hike is definitely strenuous, but it is still so enjoyable and so worth it. You'll encounter some steep climbs on the way up. While the Rock Scramble is fun (and definitely one of my favorite parts of the hike), it can definitely be tricky to get around at times, and I definitely needed the help of my hiking partners at times to make it up some of the rocks. Getting to the summit was the best experience. You feel above the clouds here, and the view is absolutely incredible and beautiful. We packed a lunch and took the time to just sit and enjoy the magnificence of nature - it was so peaceful and relaxing just looking it out and taking it all in. As I said, it was not crowded while we were there, but everyone up there was speaking quietly if at all, really allowing you to take it all in. You'll have blue trail markers in paint on either the trees or the rocks the whole way, so just make sure to always look for the next blue, and you'll be fine. If you've gone too far and haven't seen a blue in a while, keep in mind you mind have stumbled off the path. Make sure you pack PLENTY of water and food (we brought snacks and a lunch) to keep yourself going on this hike - you will definitely need it. Overall, I've been to 1/3 of the national parks, and this hike sits in my top 3 hikes thus far. If you have the time and energy to devote to it, I completely recommend taking this challenge.
Old Rag is the hike to go to in Shenandoah it will take you at least 5 hours to do. They require reservations and it is only a $1. I recommend going in the morning and during the weekday. The trail can get quite crowded and there is only so much parking and the tickets doesn't guarantee a parking spot. This hike is tough and I don't recommend it for beginners. There are about 4-6 rock scrambles and you are going up a hill. The hike can be anywhere from 7-9 miles and once you get to the summit there are many viewing areas. The hike was clear and clearly marked. This is a must do hike while you are in VA, something for the bucket list.
The ~8.7 mile hike to the peak of Old Rag Mountain was definitely a 5/5 experience. The elevation gain is about 2400 feet, but it's gradual and steady so it didn't make me feel like I'm doing too much all at once. Additionally, the last mile and half is a fun, yet challenging rock scramble, which is not common in nearby trails. Hiking up to the peak requires you to take the Ridge Trail which has icy blue markers on the trees and rocks. To come back down to the parking lot, you can take an easier route - about 2 miles of downhill on a normal looking hiking trail and then 2.5 miles on "Weakley Hollow Fire Road" which has yellow markers on the trees. Definitely bring plenty of water, food, and snacks for this hike. If you're not the best with rock scrambling, definitely go with other people who can pull you up to avoid serious injuries. If possible, make sure to wear shoes with very good grip because some of these rocks are really slippery. I would have fell if I didn't have my friends giving me a boost or pulling me up when I was slipping. Overall, my friends and I had a lot of fun on the trail going up to Old Rag Mountain! There are so many breathtaking photo opportunities throughout the hike, so we stopped a few times to take pictures before we finally made it to the peak. The best part is that there are even better views on the peak, and if you're adventurous, you can climb up the many boulders on top. Because it's regulated by Shenandoah National Park and the government, the trail is paved really well and for the most part, it's pretty safe (the rock scramble is a different story...) However, this also means that there are lots of other groups hiking the trail. So if you're not a fan of seeing a lot of people during your hike, then Old Rag might not be for you. Additionally, you'll need to purchase a National Park Pass to park on the lot. Otherwise, you have to pay a hefty parking fee of $30 or something. Make sure to reserve your tickets (it's like $1 per person) in advance because they do sell out occasionally.
Best hike in Shenandoah NP. Access to trailhead outside the park near Sperryville but there is a fee station and 2 parking lots. Now also need to reserve in advance for $1 per person. We went on a weekday and encountered altogether no more than 2 dozen people on the trail. The loop trail is about 10 miles with the first half being a steep uphill followed by the famous rock scramble and after the summit mostly a fire road down. Newly painted blue blazes so no chance of getting lost. Took us about 6.5 hours at regular pace but we didn't spend a lot of time at the summit. Good workout!
Such a fun though strenuous hike! Old Rag is a 9+ mile trail located about an hour outside of Charlottesville and is part of Shenandoah National Park, so bring your national park pass or prepare to pay a decent parking fee. They have a lot at the trailhead that was only about halfway full when we arrived around 10:30 on a Monday, but could easily see why their overflow lot is needed on the weekend. The early part of the trail is your typical hiking trail over a dirt/rocky uphill path with some steep areas. The real fun starts a couple of miles in when the hike becomes more of a rock scramble, where you'll need to hoist yourself up, lower yourself into, and climb around various rock structures. Since it's more difficult, there can be a bit of back up as people figure out how to get past certain tricky spots, but things were smooth for us with the smaller weekday crowd. At the top (and several points along the way), you're rewarded with an incredible view of the mountains. The trail back down is fairly similar to the earlier part of the trail --- no more rock scrambling, just a dirt pathway. There is a shelter that includes a privy along that second half of the journey if nature calls. Several miles of the trek back are over the fire road, which is a less exciting gravel road that I was honestly grateful for since it was easier for tired legs. The last mile of the trail is uphill since they have moved the trailhead in the past few years, so mentally prepare yourself for one last burst of cardio.
Definitely not for the faint of heart. I've hiked Old Rag a few times times with friends and family, and each time feels like the first time. There's lots of rock scrambling and amazing views. For a 9.5 - 10 mile hike, ensure that you have snacks to refuel. It feels very rewarding, yet calming to eat lunch on one of the false summits. I would not try this hike with kids, so leave them home. Grab your girl and/or guy friends, and get to hiking!
I still love this trail, even though a few things have changed that is annoying: - you need a permit per person, so you have to sign up in advance and pay $1 - there's more parking, but that also means a lot of people...but I guess that's what the permit system is for - there's a mile added for those entering from the new parking lot entrance - the trail can get traffic-y for the harder rock scramble parts There are at least 4-6 parts where you'll have to climb slightly, so be on your rock scramble and climbing game and have good grippy shoes! Even without the "climbing" parts, there's still a ton of rock scrambles so definitely wear good shows and be in that rock scramble mindset. The summit/top in my opinion isn't the best view. It's the parts where it's mostly rock. Just stop and eat your snack and enjoy the view when you feel like you're high enough with a good view. Going down is and feels longer than the time going up. So don't give up bc the way down is super easy but super long. Last, def bring a first aid kit just in case. I've seen 6 people injured on this trail (total) and it's worth bringing.
Hiked Old Rag today - and let me just start off by saying, Shenandoah in the autumn season is simply breathtaking. This was my first time hiking Old Rag, and I would say that it definitely is one of the top hikes I have done thus far because of the variety of challenges. As many others have done, I pored over blogs prior to going, and was a bit anxious about the difficulty level during the rock scrambles; however - it ended up more fun than anything. I hope that this review will quell some anxieties and make it more straightforward! Fair warning, as previously mentioned, it is a popular hike and does get quite busy if you end up coming here anytime past 7:30/8A, especially on weekends. HIKE: - Overall difficulty: moderate during the ascent; mild-moderately challenging during the rock scrambles/bouldering. - My Strava app logged a total of 10.6 miles round trip, however the official Shenandoah maps report 8.8 miles. - You hike in a clockwise fashion, with some switchbacks in the first 4 miles. - You ascend approximately 2,500 ft in the first 4 miles up till the summit. - Follow the blue blazes along the trail closely. They are clearly demarcated, though the more adventurous spirits may also find beautiful vistas on roads less travelled (we accidentally found a false summit). There are several of flatter, rest spots along the way up with vistas should you like to take water break or refuel. - You start the scramble around mile 2.8, and continue until mile 4 (summit). Contrary to most reviews, being vertically challenged (me!) doesn't necessarily mean it will be harder - you just have to be more aware of your available holds and environment. Also, you don't need a whole lot of upper body strength; again, just being smart with your environment. With that being said, very small children may need assistance from the vertical descent of at one point featuring a drop of approximately 6 ft. - You end by descending down a fire road on Weakley Hollow (gravel, rocks). It's gorgeous in its own right, and ends up by a picturesque running stream. - The official park map suggests you to go back up the Ridge Trail for an additional ~1.2 miles to ultimately end at the parking lot. My sister and I just crossed the second chain link fence with many other hikers onto Nethers Road (~0.4 miles) to end at the parking lot. PARKING: - Parking at Old Rag fills up early! The official lot near the trail head was almost full when we arrived at 6:50AM. It is free! - To find the parking lot, type in: "Old Rag Mountain Fee and Information Station" in Google maps. It is located on Nethers Road. - There is an overflow lot approximately 0.8 miles east of the trailhead. - Some private houses will allow parking on their land for fees $10-20. FEES: - Visitors are expected to have a park pass (day, Shenandoah, Interagency). When we arrived at 6:50A, I was surprised that the fee station was already open and people lining up to purchase passes. If you already have a pass, you also line up to "report" how many people are in your party and to show them your pass. It's pretty quick. - As mentioned, parking in the official lot is free. AMENITIES: - There is 1 porta potty in the official Old Rag lot, and two more park toilets (like a porta potty but just with brick walls, honestly). They are located near the fee station, close to trail head. - No running water to wash hands, so bring hand sanitizer. ADVICE: - Get here early not only for prime parking, but also to avoid bottle necks at the scramble. (My friend had hiked the day prior and just by starting off around 8A, there was point in time where he waited 50 minutes for a portion of the scramble...!!!). Luckily, we began our hike around 7A and had essentially no bottle necking frustrations. - Hiking shoes with traction are recommended, but my sister hiked in her regular Nike running shoes. There were some parts that were slippery, but she made it just fine. - Most folks are hiking clockwise, though we did see some hikers coming up from the counterclockwise direction. I wasn't there to see it personally, but I imagine that this also adds to the bottle necking effect later during the day. - If coming in from out of town, I recommend staying in Culpeper, VA - it is 30 minutes from the trailhead. (The road is pitch dark in the morning, but just drive slowly and load your GPS beforehand as you WILL lose service!) - Bring plenty of water, snacks, and sun protection. If hiking during fall, dress in layers. PERSONAL STATS: My sister and I completed the hike in 3.5 hours total, with 15-20 minutes of rest time at the top of the summit to enjoy snacks, view, and of course, indulge in photos! Overall, I would highly recommend this trail for those wanting a bit of adventure! Have fun and stay safe!
Hiking Old Rag on a 95 degree day make sure to bring ample water. The hike was challenging, but not undoable. If this is your first hike with rock scramble, it may not be for you. But if you have experience, this is a great hike. We did the circuit, which is 9.4 miles round trip. The way up, had a steady incline. Pretty easy for the first 2.5-3 miles. Keep in mind, you are still climbing a mountain! Once you get to the rock scramble, for someone who is 5'0 I found some parts challenging since there was nothing to grip on some parts and the step up was way above my waist. I had to have my husband give me a boost in two spots, while I flung forward to grab on to something and hope that I didn't fall. Luckily In each place I was able to use my upper body to pull myself up. Also, don't bypass the comments about bringing gloves like we did. Our hands were pretty sore/tore up after the rock scramble. You are using your whole body to get up on these boulders. The rocks are very jagged and pointy, not smooth like we have experienced on other hikes. All together it was a great hike with great views.
5 years ago
One of the best hiking spots I've ever been to for sure! If you're planning on going, go on a weekday and PLEASE wear hiking shoes/shoes with traction. It was incredibly frustrating to see groups of people struggling and creating bottleneck issues because they weren't prepared. This isn't a trail for those who have underlying health issues or for children/elderly as it's not a normal hiking trail. There are rock scrambles about 2 miles in and you have to literally rock climb in some areas (especially if you're on the smaller side). There are also a couple of false summits so don't think you've reached the top until you literally see the sign that says "Old Rag Summit". The view is so so worth the struggle though! Make sure you start with enough time to finish it before sunset though or it does get a little rough finding your way back (keep your eyes on the blue blazes). We started a little late so we found ourselves walking back in the dark, but it only took us 4 hours to complete as we were booking it down once we were on flatter land. read more
11 years ago
One of the best hiking trails EVER! (Especially near DC) I think this hike can be too strenuous for kids and elders. Maybe too strenuous even for middle-age adults, if you're out of shape... Tips: 1. Pack lunch (i usually get a wegmans sub on my way to the mountain) 2. Wear hiking boots 3. Cut your toenails the night before (the first time I did this hike a couple years ago, 2 of my toenails fell out after the hike!!!) 4. Definitely take gloves for the rock scramble near the top of the mountain 5. Take plenty of water (duh!) 6. Wear pants long enough to cover your knees or if wearing shorts, take light knee pads 7. Pack a hat / visor 8. Pack toilet paper (especially women; there's a portable john at the parking lot and only 1 outhouse on the way down the mountain 9. Pack hiking poles, if you have them 10. Pack small hand sanitizer read more
The rock scramble was definitely my favorite part. Sometimes you have to boost yourself over a boulder, sometimes you have to squeeze yourself in a tiny crevice between two rocks. A little bit of a challenge, but you feel a sweet sense of success after making it past each obstacle. The ascent had some switchbacks but the scenery was prettier and prettier as you hiked up (we took Ridge Trail, which ascends for 1.6 miles to the first false summit, then comes the rock scramble for 1.1 miles to the summit). The view from the summit is breathtaking. Going down, we took Weakley Hollow Fire Road and we actually saw a black bear no more than 5 feet from the trail. He was just sitting there, looking at us. I recommend not descending past sunset; we were walking down around 6pm and we saw the bear just after the sun had set and the skies were getting dark. After awhile, it was completely dark and we had to use a flashlight. Even with the light, we stumbled at one point wondering which route got us back. It was definitely an adrenaline rush from seeing the bear to (almost) getting lost. All in all, it was a good hike. I wish we could have gotten there in the morning; we started hiking around 2:45pm and ended at 7:30pm. We made pretty good time but hiking in the dark wasn't the best experience. I did really enjoy the views - so picturesque! A second time, I came with a group of friends for a sunrise hike in early April. We arrived at around 4:30 in the morning and hiked up just in time to see the sunrise. It's definitely a lot more challenging in the dark (although we had headlamps). I can't imagine doing this alone in the dark. Luckily, as we were approaching the rock scramble portion, the faintest rays of sunlight were starting to peek through the horizon so we didn't do the entire rock scramble in darkness. We made it back to the parking lot by 9:30 am, just as hordes of people were just making their way up. I felt like it should have been 2pm, not 9:30am. We saw an Eastern Spotted Skunk, a fairly rare and secretive creature, on the switchbacks, and a family of deer on Weakley Hollow Fire Road. Bring water and snacks! And if you bring any food, remember to bring it in a closed container so it doesn't attract wildlife. There are no trash cans or restrooms during the hike, so go to the restroom before you start the hike (port-a-potties at the parking lot) and take your trash down the mountain (trash receptacle at the parking lot). read more
What better way to cure an all night Shenandoah camping - bonfire - beer and moonshine induced hangover from hell then a "leisurely" seven mile hike and climb? Yeah, wasn't exactly my first choice either. But there I was, peering up at Old Rag mountain and wondering what the hell I got myself into. Loading up on any fluid I could find that didn't start with Miller, Bud or Coors we began our ascent. My thought process went something like this ... hmm, this is cake! Eh, this isn't too bad. Damn you Mike! My toe hurts. My head hurts. Wait, my legs hurt now. FU Mike! What the hell are we doing on this mountain? Should I fake a twisted ankle?! Oh GOD. OK, so it wasn't that bad ... I mean, we're all still alive today. And I actually enjoyed it in my own masochistic weekend warrior kind of way. But despite what some folks say, this isn't an easy walk in the park by any stretch. If you're idea of a strenuous hike is walking the trails at Great Falls park and jumping a few boulders, this will kick your ass. Up, up and up ... and then the "rock scramble" which is pretty much rock climbing. Those afraid of heights or ruining their french pedicure need not apply. But is the pain all worth it? Absolutely. Some of the most fantastic views you'll see in the area. I can only imagine the view this time of year when the leaves change color. Check the pics! read more
Favorite hike in the area. Has a good mix of trail, switchbacks, scrambling, and climbing... and of course, great views! I just wish instead of having to take the fire road down, there was one of those awesome concrete bobsled things or a slide down to the bottom. Generally, about halfway down the fire road I just want to be back at the car. Don't forget to pack a sandwich for the top of the mountain. I recommend a Shnack wrap from Sheetz. Breaded chicken, tomatoes, onions, bbq sauce, cheddar cheese. Optional.... but it tastes great at the top let me tell you. read more
10 years ago
Finally had a chance to do this hike! We had a perfect day in terms of weather...60 and sunny. Definitely dress in layers because it can get quite windy at parts. If you are very scared of heights some of the rock scramble parts may not be very fun for you. However I loved it! It was a very challenging hike, about 4 miles to the top with the last mile being all rock climbing and scrambling. I personally think that makes hiking more fun than just switchbacks.... there is a giant loop so we took the fire road on the way back which is a trail and gravel road. It's less challenging but longer (6 miles) and a bit more boring... the scenery doesn't change too much. If you are doing the main trail on the way up make sure you're prepared to get on some rocks! I'd recommend long pants, maybe gloves, and plenty of water and snacks. Have fun! There are plenty of hikes out there but this one was so worth the effort when you got the view at the top. read more
10 years ago
Since there are already hundreds of reviews here, I'll keep mine short and simple. This is my favorite hike spot in the VA/MD/West Virginia area so far because of the elevation and spectacular views at the top. I've been to pretty much all of the major trails in VA/MD/West Virginia/Southern PA since 2006, so that's how I came to my conclusion. I went on this hike in March 2009 before it became popular. Back then, they just had a cardboard sign to point the location for Old Rag. Since it has gotten popular over the past few years, it is no longer a hidden gem that it once used to be, so be prepared to "wait in line" to get through some sections. If you want some peace, come a little later or earlier. I would suggest going clockwise to the peak and then go back on that same route, counterclockwise, because the Weakley Hollow fire road back is a plain gravel road that seems to go on forever. read more
Great hike/rock scramble. On weekends be prepared for lines - literally. The rocks are a challenge and lines form. Im surprised people say children can do it. I would not want anybody below a teenager trying with me due to the scrabbling on the rocks. Basically would be impossible. Go! (Arrive by 8 am for parking in peak times ). Hike took us 6.5 hours. read more
11 years ago
9 years ago
It is the most difficult, fun, and popular hike in Shenandoah National Park. It is legitimately strenuous. In addition to the 9.1 miles and 2,380 feet elevation change, there is intermittent rock scrambling for an hour as you approach the summit. I have done shorter rock scrambling, in terms of time, for 25 minutes that was more strenuous because it was continuous. There are natural breaks (e.g. short, flat stretches in between rock scrambling) to catch your breath. The parking lot for the trailhead is on Nethers Road. It is a 0.8 mile walk from the parking lot to the start of the trailhead. Most people do the trail in a clockwise direction on the Ridge Trail. It takes about 90 minutes of hiking on switchbacks before you get to the beginning of the rock scrambling. The switchbacks are covered by trees and shade. It feels like walking through a forest. At first, I foolishly thought the rock scrambling was going to be really easy and exaggerated. I quickly faced reality when I got to the sections with the real rock scrambling. I can only describe it as nature's obstacle course. At different sections of the rock scrambling, I had to sit down and "lead with my butt" whenever I felt the ground below a rock was a little too high because I did not really know how stable some of the rocks were, go under or squeeze between rocks, and throw my book bag ahead because I could not afford to have the bag pull me backwards as I needed the full momentum and force of my body pushing up to the path or rock above. Despite the challenging rock scrambling, I never felt like I was in danger. None of it was near an edge or steep slope. I could have definitely hurt myself if I was reckless but nothing would have been life threatening. In addition to the fun of rock scrambling and completing the natural obstacle course, you are also rewarded with stunning views of the valley at the summit. There is a large clearing and big rocks to sit on to relax, rest a bit, and soak in the gorgeous views of the valley, mountains, and the rock path you hiked up. Of course, it is a great spot to enjoy a snack or lunch. From the summit, you take the Saddle trail to start the descent back towards the beginning of the trail head. It is a gradual decline. On the Ridge Trail, you follow blue markers. Obviously, you want to ensure you are following those markers so you do not go off trail and encounter a rock scramble that actually is dangerous or near an edge. Similarly, follow the blue markers when you descend on the Saddle Trail. I went off trail once because I was following someone who looked like they knew where they were going. If you are walking somewhere where there has not been a lot of wear and tear from others walking and hitting a lot of branches, it is a good indication you went the wrong way. The path on the Saddle Ridge is pretty wide and have a lot of footprints. The Saddle Trail eventually connects to the Fire Trail. It is relatively flat. You will continually ask yourself when that trail will end because there is nothing exciting to see and you will be tired at that point. The full loop of the hike, including from and back to the parking lot, is 9.1 miles. Of course, definitely have enough water for the hike. You will absolutely need it. I had 2 liters of water on me but it was not overly hot or humid. It is heavy to carry on the way up but you will feel as light as a feather on the way down. I drank about half a liter in the first 90 minutes to hydrate and lighten the load on my back a little. I consumed a liter during the rock scramble. The last half liter was more than enough on the hike down. Again, the rock scramble is legitimately difficult. In my opinion, it is manageable for someone relatively physical fit. If you have serious concerns whether you can make it but still want to see the summit, you can do the hike from the counterclockwise direction. Walk up the Fire Trail to the Saddle Trail then turn around and return the same way. It is an extra mile of hiking but you skip out on the strenuous rock scrambling. Of course, I totally recommend the rock scrambling if you are capable. Old Rag is one of the most fun hikes I have ever done. I only spent about 10 minutes to enjoy the summit so it only took me 5 hours to complete the hike. As another recommendation, have written, physical instructions or a screenshot on how to get to the Old Rag Parking Lot with you. I had terrible cell service at the parking lot and the surrounding area. As such, Google Maps did not work for me. If you are planning a trip to Shenandoah National Park and looking for recommendations, feel free to message me for my itinerary. You can also find the electronic copy through the link my profile. read more
Omg!! My body is going to be SORE tomorrow but what a view and what a workout! Over 4 miles up, over 5 miles down. It's essentially a loop and you do at least get a very easy downhill course on your way back down to the parking lot. It is misleading so every time you think you have reached the summit, you probably still have a little bit to go! Not the easiest of hikes so don't recommend to newbies but if you are up for the challenge with a little hop-skipping and scramble rocking, go for it! Had a very beautiful day for a hike and well worth the $20 parking fee. Just another great U.S. National Park! read more
This hike took us 5.5 hours to complete. Make sure you bring plenty of water! And snack! We went in the middle of October and this hike gets really crowded! We probably spent 1/2 hour just waiting for people to get through! Also when you park you should definitely try to park at the parking lot for the hike and not the private lot. Save your self extra 10$! The private lot might tell you the Park's lot is full so they would like you to park at their lot. Do your self a favor and drive down another second to confirm for your self anyway (you can always swing back to the private lot!) read more
10 years ago
4 years ago
This was an amazing hike. I went yesterday with a friend (we're both 22) and it kicked our butts. I saw plenty of children and older folks on the route from Saddle Trail to the summit, but wouldn't recommend the rock scramble for them. We went up the summit, down the rock scramble, and did the fire road loop back to the car. When I do it again I would do the summit, down the rock scramble and then back up it again because the fire roads are so long and tedious and we were so tired by that point that we just wanted to be back at the car. Would definitely recommend going on a weekday if you can. We took a ton of breaks and the entire hike ended up taking us a little less than 7 hours. According to my fitbit, it was 25,000 steps, 264 flights of stairs, burned 3188 calories, and was around 11 miles (due to the parking lot and walking around at the overlooks). Hiking boots are a must, and are especially helpful for the rock scramble. I would recommend bringing gloves for the rock scramble. I brought my fingerless kayaking gloves and they worked perfectly, and was told by many people without gloves that they wish they had brought some as the scramble can really make your palms sore. Be prepared to do a lot of mental math/spatial configuration to figure out how to climb through. Best part of the hike! Will definitely be back! Some essentials we brought: A LOT of water. Get a camelbak/hydration pack A small/flat backpack so the rock scramble is easier (hydration pack is ideal) Lots of snacks/lunch Toilet paper Pants/capris for the rock scramble or at least bring knee pads read more
11 years ago
Beautiful views. Get up there on a weekday if you can - way less people and more private at the top. I wish I had more time to hang out there!! The hike itself is difficult. A lot of elevation quick and very rocky in some parts. If you've hiked before, you can do it. Just keep in mind you'll need a little extra time. Wish I lived closer so I could come more often!! read more
8 years ago
Much harder than I expected, though lives up to its reputation! The rock scramble is a lot of fun, but recommendations to go on "off" days are spot on. I can imagine the waits on a weekend to be long for some of the narrow points. Unbelievable views. read more
12 years ago
Do it. I have been living in Virginia for 4 months for work and have been wanting to do this hike since I got here. I knew I would regret it if I left and didnt get a chance to hike Old Rag so finally went this weekend with my boyfriend. If you can, get there before 8 am, we got there at 9 and there were a lot of people already. Everyone was really nice letting us pass them on the hike ( we were timing our miles) until we got to the rock scramble. There was traffic getting through the rocks and although it was nice to be able to watch the people in front of you maneuver over and around the rocks to give you an idea of how to or not to do it, It would have been a lot better without the people traffic. Which is why if I were to do it again or have any recommendations, GO EARLY! Other than that it was perfect, challenging yet not too difficult to stop you from getting to the summit ( which was absolutely beautiful). There were all ages on the hike, children to early 60s. Also, to make life easier we took the Saddle Trail back down..a little longer but a much easier trail and quiet! It was a little break on the downhill muscles. It ended up taking us 4 hours total with the people traffic. If you are debating this hike at all, please just do it, you wont regret it! read more
I think that this is my favorite hike at Shenandoah! I would definitely recommend either going with someone who has gone before or with a group, if you're looking to conquer something together to bond or just to grow as a group this hike entails all from your typical hike up a mountain, to climbing rocks and being 6 years old again! It's not your usual boring hike where you go up, get a decent view of the mountaintop and hike back down. The first 3-4 miles may be like that up but towards the top, you actually have to climb, maneuver and hoist yourself up certain stones to complete the hike, almost got you up there like spider-man! Plenty of scenic views for wonderful group photos and great trail shots during the fall time, there are about 2-3 times you actually think you've made it to the top, but you realize you can go higher, lol. It's definitely a lot more rigorous than your typical hike so make sure to bring plenty of water and like my cousin (for those who have fast metabolisms) some tee pee for a possible nature dookie. Yes, keep in mind that this hike could take anywhere from 5-7 hours! Yes that's right, this 9 mile hike can last the entire morning or afternoon (depending on the group you go with) I went with 2 other friends and it took us about alittle under 5 hours and have gone with an entire group (think 10 people) and that took us about 7-8 hours. So if you eat breakfast and you normally pass some bile a few hours later, just prepare yourself to be a true nature explorer like Russell and maybe even bring a shovel with that tee pee (from the movie UP)! A snack for when you get to the top of the mountain wouldn't be bad too, on my way to old rag, I always stop by bodos bagels in Charlottesville which I have already reviewed! I grab an extra bagel breakfast sandwich for my reward at the top! It's good energy for the 3-4 hour hike back down the mountain. The view at the very top is breath taking, especially in the fall. Bring a blanket if you're going on a colder day and if you got game, plan to get there near sunset (just prepare yourself to bring some flashlights and bravery for possible black bear encounters!) Lastly, I would try to get there early, parking is pretty limited and the people who own the land right next to the free parking area charge about $10 just to park on their land which is a bummer because you have to pay to hike the mountain as well. The lot tends to fill up by 9-10 am so to be safe, I would get there round 8-830! Hope you enjoy this hike as much as I do! read more
16 years ago
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9 years ago
Amazing hike. Not too tough, but definitely not easy. Once you get to the top of the mountain, you get to crawl through and climb up rocks to get a true mountain climbing experience (for novices). Get to the trail early as this is a very popular spot. Start early, and have lunch at the top of the mountain to amazing views. Again, this trail has amazing views! read more
17 years ago
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14 years ago
Tough 8 mile circuit hike with a LOT of rock scrambling. Best advice is to get there as early as possible to avoid the crowds. By the time you get to the summit, sure you'll have a few bumps, bruises, and scrapes, and your legs may feel like jelly but the views are well worth it and now you'll be able to say you climbed an honest to goodness mountain. read more
10 years ago
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Robertson, VA 22743
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Old Rag Mountain - hiking - Updated May 2026
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