Name: Old Rag Mountain Loop - 9.4 Mi Strenuous
Start: 2024-11-20T08:30:00-05:00
End: 2024-11-20T14:30:00-05:00

MAKE SURE YOU GET YOUR DAY-USE TICKET EARLY! SNP requires everyone who hikes Old Rag to purchase a $2 day-use ticket. You can buy the ticket here: https://www.recreation.gov/ticket/10088450/ticket/10088451.

The Old Rag Mountain Loop is considered one of the best hikes in Virginia. It’s my favorite hike! Although it’s strenuous, I believe 90% of people can successfully complete it while having a lot of fun!

QUESTION:

Since this hike is rated as a strenuous hike, all hikers will need to verify their hiking experience by answering a question.

AGENDA:

We will meet at the parking lot (38.57045, -78.28659). There are now three parking areas on SR600/Nethers Rd: 1. Main lower lot (where we will meet.) 2. Upper lot for horse trailers and RV's 3. Lower overflow lot. Please bring your SNP pass so you won't have to pay a park fee.

The averagege hiking pace is 2-2.5 MPH. However, going uphill - especially on the rock scramble - the pace could be as slow as 1-1.5 MPH.

Mile 0.0 - From the main lower parking lot on SR 600 Nethers Road start up the blue blazed Ridge Trail.

Mile 0.7 - Pass the intersection of the Ridge Access Trail on the right. The trail will gradually increase in grade and make nine switch backs before reaching the first of many view points. From this first vista to the west, the Ridge Trail will become more rocky.

Mile 2.9 - Arrive at the main easterly vista on the ridge. From here the trail becomes a rock scramble. Be careful to follow the blue blazes, as there are several false trails that lead to overlooks. After passing around the minor northerly summit, the trail is less steep but still requires rock scrambling for most of the remaining 0.3 miles to the true summit where there are several points with 360° views.

Mile 4.0 - Descend south along the Ridge Trail for 0.4 miles to the intersection of the Saddle Trail and Byrd's Nest Shelter.

Mile 4.4 - Turn right descending on the blue blazed Saddle Trail. In 0.6 miles pass the Old Rag Shelter. Both shelters are available for day use only. From the Old Rag Shelter the trail widens and follows a forestry road for the 0.4 miles to the intersection of the Berry Hollow Fire road (left), Old Rag Fire Road (straight), and Weakley Hollow Fire Road (right).

Mile 5.9 - Turn right downhill on the yellow blazed Weakley Hollow Fire Road. Continue along back to the upper parking area.

Mile 8.3 - Arrive at the closed upper parking area. Turn right uphill on the ridge Access Trail.

Mile 8.7 - Turn left on the Ridge trail back towards the main parking area.

Mile 9.4 - Arrive back at the main parking area on Nethers Road.

This hike will be challenging, but enjoyable. In total I expect to gain around 2650 ft.

WHAT TO BRING:

Wear appropriate shoes, bring hiking poles if you need them. Bring plenty of water (2-3 liters) and pack snacks and lunch.

DISCLAIMER:

By signing up for these events, you agree to release organizers and Hike Like A Girl Meetup from ANY responsibility/liability.

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Old Rag Mountain Loop - 9.4 Mi Strenuous

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Old Rag Mountain Loop - 9.4 Mi Strenuous

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