Old Rag

For unmatched views, hike and scramble to the summit of Old Rag, the park's most popular hike.

Plan Around Old Rag

A good stop is not just something to read about. Once it belongs on the day, move into a saved trip and build the route around it.

Add to trip View park guide

Use this detail page to confirm that the stop is worth it, then carry that decision into a trip draft while the park context is still fresh.

Old Rag Details

Old Rag is the park's most popular hike, topping out at the 3,268 foot summit with incredible views of the surrounding mountains and wilderness. However, it is a challenging and potentially hazardous hike with some rock scrambling involved. This hike begins from the Old Rag Fee Station parking lot. To get there: From Sperryville, follow Route 211 to Route 522 and follow it south for 0.8 mile. Turn right on Route 231, follow 8 miles, turn right onto Route 601 and follow signs to the parking area, approximately 3 miles. From Madison, Route 29 Business and turn onto Route 231 and follow it for 12.8 miles. Turn left onto Route 602. Follow signs for the parking area. Old Rag parking is approximately 3 miles from the turn onto Route 602. Walk along the road for 0.8 miles to reach the start of the trail. From the Ridge Trail trailhead, follow the blue-blazed Ridge Trail up and over the summit of Old Rag. The first 2 miles will lead you along a steeply ascending wooded trail. After 2 miles, you'll climb across a ridge top for 1.5 miles - this is the scrambling part of the hike and may involve using both hands and feet. Along your way several viewpoints will tempt you but the summit offers the reward of a 360-degree vista. Return via the Saddle Trail past the Old Rag Shelter (where there is a privy) to Weakley Hollow Fire Road. You'll turn right here and follow the fire road for 3.4 miles through the woods and back to the Ridge Trail trailhead. On weekends, Old Rag can be crowded and hikers may have to wait to pass some of the narrow areas on the route; it is best hiked during weekdays. Always stay on trail - both to protect yourself and the unique and endangered plants that live here. Although this loop is the most popular route, there are several options for reaching the summit so be sure to plan ahead and bring a map in addition to the essentials: food, water, flashlight, and extra layers.

Difficulty

High

Distance

9 miles

Estimated time

7-8 hours

Region

N/A