Old Rag has been on my hiking list for a long time, and good reason. It’s one of the most iconic hikes in Shenandoah National Park, and once you’ve done it, you understand why. Tucked near Etlan, Virginia, Old Rag Mountain offers 360-degree summit views and a 9.4-mile loop that’s equal parts grit, scramble, and awe.

But let me be clear, this trail is not a walk in the woods. It’s got some serious rock scrambles that require hands, feet, and maybe even a little bravery. But if you’re up for the challenge, the reward is incredible.

The Trail at a Glance

Distance: 9.4 miles
Time: 7–8 hours
Difficulty: Hard
Elevation Gain: Over 2,000 feet
Route: Ridge Trail → Summit → Saddle Trail → Weakley Hollow Fire Road

You’ll start your climb on the Ridge Trail, and that’s where the rock scramble begins. It’s steep, technical, and in some spots, you’ll be squeezing through boulders or hauling yourself over ledges. From the summit, you’ll loop back down via the Saddle Trail and Fire Road, which are far more relaxed.

Let’s Talk About That Scramble

I’m not going to sugarcoat it, those rock scrambles are no joke. I went solo and started feeling a little overwhelmed about halfway in. Luckily, a kind couple showed up and let me tag along through the trickier sections. If you’re not super confident with scrambles, this is one hike where going with a buddy is a solid idea.

That said, standing on that summit? Wind in your face, mountains in every direction? 100% worth it.

What to Pack & Prepare

This is one of those hikes where your gear matters. Here’s what I recommend:

Small Pack – Keep it light and snug-fitting. You’ll want both hands free.

• Water – Bring more than you think you’ll need. Seriously
• Snacks – High-energy, packable food like nuts, dried fruit, jerky, or trail bars.
• Footwear – Hiking boots with solid grip. Don’t skimp on traction.
• Sun Protection – Parts of this trail are fully exposed.

A Few Things to Know

• No Dogs Allowed – This one’s for the humans only. The rock scrambles just aren’t safe for pups.
• Tickets Required – You need to purchase a day-use ticket in advance. It helps manage crowd size and preserve the trail.
• Start Early – Parking fills up fast and the trail gets busy, especially on weekends. I recommend hitting the trailhead before 8 AM.
• Leave No Trace – Pack it in, pack it out. Let’s keep this trail wild and beautiful.

Old Rag isn’t a trail I’d do every weekend, it’s a beast. But it’s also the kind of hike that sticks with you. You’ll feel it in your legs the next day and in your memory for a long time after that.

If you’ve done Old Rag, I’d love to hear how it went for you. Share your thoughts or tips in the comments, and let me know if you tackled it solo or with a crew.