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Best hikes in Shenandoah + Northern Blue Ridge Mountains

State(s) VA
Most Recently Visited Jun 23, 2020
Hikes in this Region 24

Introduction to the Shenandoah + Northern Blue Ridge Mountains

The landscape of the northern Blue Ridge Mountains is characterized by rolling hills, wooded slopes, and deep valleys. The mountains offer breathtaking vistas, with their rugged peaks and meandering rivers carving through the valleys. The region is renowned for its vibrant fall foliage, transforming the landscape into a stunning display of colors.

The geology of the northern Blue Ridge Mountains is diverse and ancient. The mountains are primarily composed of metamorphic rocks, such as gneiss and schist, which were formed through intense heat and pressure over millions of years. These rocks provide the foundation for the rugged terrain and unique rock formations found throughout the region.

The area is home to numerous natural attractions, including waterfalls, caves, and scenic overlooks. Places like Shenandoah National Park in Virginia and the Blue Ridge Parkway offer opportunities for visitors to explore and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the region.

Shenandoah National Park, located in the state of Virginia, encompasses a stunning landscape of natural beauty and diverse ecosystems. The park is renowned for its scenic vistas, lush forests, meandering streams, and abundant wildlife. Shenandoah National Park is named after the Shenandoah River, which flows through the park.

Agencies that manage land within Shenandoah + Northern Blue Ridge Mountains

The agencies I've been to within this area include:
  • Channels Natural Area Preserve
  • George Washington National Forest
  • Grayson Highlands State Park
  • Hungry Mother State Park
  • Jefferson National Forest
  • Mount Rogers National Recreation Area
  • Shenandoah National Park

Find trip reports in Shenandoah + Northern Blue Ridge Mountains

Find the best hikes in the Shenandoah + Northern Blue Ridge Mountains, located in Virginia. The hikes listed below are from highest rating to lowest. Higher-rated hikes are generally harder, longer days with beautiful scenery and lots of solitude and follows a fun, interesting route.

Apr 28, 2017

Old Rag Mountain

Shenandoah National Park, VA
Class 2 8.7 miles 2400 gain 3-5 hrs Loop
Effort
Beauty
Personality
Solitude
Jul 04, 2018

Mount Pleasant and Cole Mountain

George Washington National Forest, VA
Class 1 12.2 miles 2600 gain 4-6 hrs Loop
Effort
Beauty
Personality
Solitude
May 19, 2016

Cedar Run and Whiteoak Canyon Loop

Shenandoah National Park, VA
Class 1 8.2 miles 2300 gain 3-5 hrs Loop
Effort
Beauty
Personality
Solitude
May 13, 2016

Rockytop and Big Run Portal Loop

Shenandoah National Park, VA
Class 1 13.4 miles 2400 gain 5-7 hrs Loop
Effort
Beauty
Personality
Solitude
Nov 06, 2016

Mount Rogers via Grayson Highlands

Grayson Highlands State Park, VA
Class 1 8.5 miles 1600 gain 3-5 hrs Out and Back
Effort
Beauty
Personality
Solitude
Jul 27, 2017

Barney's Wall via Cascade Falls

Jefferson National Forest, VA
Class 1 8.4 miles 1600 gain 3-5 hrs Out and Back
Effort
Beauty
Personality
Solitude
May 21, 2016

Riprap Loop

Shenandoah National Park, VA
Class 1 9.2 miles 2300 gain 4-6 hrs Loop
Effort
Beauty
Personality
Solitude
Jun 24, 2018

White Rock Gap and Torry Ridge Loop

George Washington National Forest, VA
Class 1 9.7 miles 1900 gain 4-6 hrs Loop
Effort
Beauty
Personality
Solitude
Jul 28, 2016

The Great Channels via Brumley Mountain Trail

Channels Natural Area Preserve, VA
Class 1 5.9 miles 1200 gain 3-5 hrs Out and Back
Effort
Beauty
Personality
Solitude
Jun 15, 2016

Dragon's Tooth

Jefferson National Forest, VA
Class 2 4.8 miles 1400 gain 2-4 hrs Out and Back
Effort
Beauty
Personality
Solitude

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