Old Rag Mountain Loop

The Old Rag Mountain Loop is a ~10 mile loop with 2,480ft elevation gain culminating in beautiful panoramic views of the Shenendoah Valley. It is one of the most exciting hikes in all of Virginia and the East Coast, filled with beautiful views and fantastic rock scrambles.

There are two routes. The Summit Ridge Trail is fairly strenuous with steep hiking and rock scrambles. The second route follows the Weekly Hollow Fire Road most of the way and so is less strenuous with much less scrambling. Both lead to the top of Old Rag Mountain.

The trail is used primarily for hiking, running, camping and backpacking. It is best from April through November and is busiested during the summer and fall months. Although dogs are allowed, there are fairly steep sections and gaps that most dogs will have difficulty traversing. Parking is available for a fee at a National Park Serivce lot located near the base of the trail. It is recommended that you pack plenty of water, snacks, and an extra layer or two as the top can be windy and/or chilly.

This hike is one of the most popular hikes in the Shenandoah National Park. It is a challening hike with lots of wooded trail and switchbacks followed by rock scrambling and beautiful views.