I’m someone who likes to push myself, and hiking the Three Ridges Trail off the Blue Ridge Parkway was a real test, in the best way. At 13.86 miles, it’s no small feat, especially when you decide (like I did) to do the whole thing in one day.

This trail is known for its rugged beauty, steep climbs, and wide-open views. And let me tell you, it lives up to the hype.

Getting There

You can access the trail from either Waynesboro or Nellysford/Wintergreen and park at Reeds Gap. From there, you’ll head south on the white-blazed Appalachian Trail. It’s a popular spot, so I recommend going on a weekday or getting there early if it’s the weekend. I pulled in around 8:15 AM on a Saturday, and the lot was already filling up.

The Views Are Worth Every Step

There are two main overlooks that absolutely took my breath away, Hanging Rock and Chimney Rock. Hanging Rock gave me a sweeping view of the valley that made all the climbing worth it. Chimney Rock had its own kind of magic, with layers of mountain ridges stretching out as far as you could see. If you’re someone who hikes for the views, these won’t disappoint.

Trail Conditions + Difficulty

Let’s be honest: this trail is hard. There’s some rock scrambling and plenty of elevation gain. But the trail was clear and well-traveled, with no fallen trees or tricky detours. I didn’t run into any major issues.

I tackled it in one day, just over 8 hours, but I’m already planning to come back and do an overnight so I can slow down and soak in more of the experience. If you’re new to hiking or not used to longer distances, I’d recommend turning this into a backpacking trip. Take your time. Camp out. Let the trail show you what it has to offer.

Trail Shelters

There are two Appalachian Trail shelters along the route: Maupin Field and Harpers Creek. Both make great rest spots or overnight options. I stopped at Harpers Creek around midday for lunch, and it was the perfect reset. Quiet, peaceful, and surrounded by nature. Next time, I plan to camp there overnight.

What I Packed + What I Recommend

I wore my trail runners (no regrets) and carried a hydration pack, but here are a few things I’d recommend having with you:

• Hiking shoes or boots with solid grip and ankle support
• A backpack with water, snacks, extra layers, and rain gear
• Map and compass or AllTrails (just be sure to download the map ahead of time)
• Sunscreen, sunglasses, and bug spray
• First aid kit and a flashlight or headlamp with extra batteries
• A battery pack for your phone
• A whistle and bear spray, better safe than sorry

Safety Tips

I had an amazing time on this hike, but I never take safety for granted. A few tips from my own routine:

• Stick to the marked trail. Don’t shortcut or wander off-track
• Let someone know where you’re going and when you expect to return. I don’t broadcast my plans online in advance, but I always tell my partner before I head out
• Watch the weather and be ready to turn around if it shifts
• Drink plenty of water and rest when you need to
• Watch for loose rocks and slippery spots
• Be respectful of wildlife, this is their home, too

The Weather Factor

Mountain weather can flip on you fast. Even with a sunny forecast, it’s smart to dress in layers and pack for rain. Thunderstorms can roll in quickly in the Blue Ridge, so if the skies start to rumble, don’t hesitate to seek shelter.

My Experience on the Trail

I started my hike at 8:15 AM and finished around 4:30 PM. I didn’t spend a ton of time lingering at the overlooks, but I did take breaks to eat, refuel, and just be present in the space.

By the end of the day, I was sore, but it was the good kind of sore. The kind that reminds you that your body can do hard things and your mind can stay with it even when it gets tough.

If you’re looking for a hike that’ll challenge you, ground you, and leave you feeling proud and a little wild, the Three Ridges Trail delivers.

Thinking About Doing It?

If you’ve hiked the Three Ridges trail, I’d love to hear what your experience was like. And if you’re planning to do it, let me know, maybe I’ll see you out there on the ridge.