Nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains near Etlan, Virginia, Old Rag Mountain is a must-visit. The terrain is rugged and has some challenging rock scrambles, but comes with breathtaking 360-degree views. The 9.4-mile loop trail is one of the most popular hikes in Shenandoah National Park.

The Trail Overview

Old Rag Mountain’s loop trail typically takes seven to eight hours to complete and offers a mix of excitement and tranquility. Here’s a breakdown of the route:

• Ridge Trail Ascend to the summit via the Ridge Trail, which features thrilling rock scrambles and stunning vistas.
• Saddle Trail and Weakley Hollow Fire Road Use these paths to loop back to the trailhead, offering a more relaxed descent after the exhilarating climb.

Rock Scrambles and Summit Views

One of the most iconic features of Old Rag Mountain is its rock scrambles. These sections require hikers to use their hands and feet to maneuver through large boulders, adding a sense of adventure to the hike. The effort is well worth it, as the summit rewards you with breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

As ventured out on my own and felt a bit overwhelmed when I went to the rock scrambles luckily for me a couple came along and was kind enough for me to tag along to get to the other side of it all. I don’t recommend doing this alone unless you are super comfortable and confident in your rock scramble abilities.

Essential Gear and Preparation

To make the most of your Old Rag Mountain adventure, it’s crucial to be well-prepared. Here are some tips:

• Hydration and Nutrition Ensure you have plenty of water and high-energy snacks to keep you fueled throughout the hike.
• Sun Protection Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun’s rays, especially during the exposed sections of the trail.
• Light Packing Pack as lightly as possible to make the rock scrambles more manageable and conserve energy.
• Footwear Wear sturdy hiking boots with good traction to handle the rocky terrain.

Plan Your Visit

Due to its popularity, Old Rag Mountain can get quite crowded, especially on weekends. To enjoy a more peaceful hike, consider the following tips:

• Timing Go early in the morning on a weekend or opt for a weekday hike to avoid the crowds.
• Entrance Fee and Parking While you still need to pay an entrance fee to access the park, parking at the National Park Service lots is free.
• Day-Use Tickets Purchase day-use tickets for Old Rag Mountain in advance to secure your spot and ensure a smooth entry.

A Few Important Notes

• No Dogs Allowed For the safety and enjoyment of all hikers, dogs are not permitted on the trail.
• Respect Nature Help preserve the beauty of Old Rag Mountain by following Leave No Trace principles and packing out all trash.

Old Rag Mountain is a challenging hike but with its rock scrambles, summit views, and the thrill of conquering a rugged trail, it’s an experience you won’t soon forget.

Ready to tackle Old Rag Mountain? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below.

Happy hiking!