Old Rag Mountain

What a wonderfully grounding place. The hike isn't for beginners. But this land is nostalgic for me. It's just beautiful and asks a little from the hiker before opening up the vistas.
5 8 years ago (26-04-2018)

Great location for a complete day's trek especially if you do not trek often. The initial segment is an uphill, the next section is the rock climb and it can be challenging at times and takes some effort for sure. The experience once you reach the top is worth the efforts!
5 8 years ago (30-04-2018)

The best hike in Virginia! I have probably hiked this mountain 100+ times. The views are amazing and it is one of the most family friendly hikes there is within the Shenandoah National Park area.
5 8 years ago (30-03-2018)

If you like boldering than you may be right up your alley. If you prefer more traditional hikes than you may want to look elsewhere. First off, the hike looks deceptively casual. 9 miles isn't particularly long, and if all you had to go on by were the photos people have posted you may be lulled into a false sense of security. HOWEVER what is ommited is that during the rock scramble you are often packed fairly tight so your ability to take a photo is often hampered by the people behind you. The rock scramble section is approximately .8 miles long and very dense. it requires both upper and lower body strength to successfully navigate some of the obstacles. Shimmying, climbing up cracks, crawling under bolders are some of the task that you need to complete in order to progress. There will be several false summits before you reach the actual top. Also keep in mind that this is all after hiking about 2200 ft vertical Honestly the view isn't that spectacular. I found many of the overlooks accessible by car have similar views. There is a stream near the tail end of the trail. That is quite refreshing especially during the hot and humid days of the summer. If you are so inclined to see the views you can always do the trail backwards (start at the fire road) reach the summit and double back. You can actually get to the main sitting area (many people will be taking a break here) and you'll get the best view on the mountain.
2 8 years ago (19-05-2018)

One of the best hikes in the area. it is a long one, but the views along the way are amazing. Make sure to bring enough water. There have been plenty of times of I have handed out water to first time hikers that tried to get away with carrying only 20oz water bottles Parking does fill up quick on the weekends during last spring through early fall
5 9 years ago (12-12-2017)