Virginia is home to 544 miles of the Palachian process, more miles than any other state! And 101 of those miles are beautiful Shenandoah National Park and parallel to Skyline Drive.
The Palachian Trial in Virginia also runs parallel to the famous Blue Ridge Parkway, passes through the Mount Rogers National Recreation Area in the George Washington & Jefferson National Forests, and ends in Damascus, known as Trail Town USA, where the trail leads straight down the main street.
Related Read: Must Have Equipment For Hiking
Here is your guide to the Palachian Process in Virginia
Would you like to hike parts of the Palachian Process in Virginia? Here is your guide to the different sections of the trail.
Virginia’s northern end of the Palachian Trail
The best time to hike this part, 54 miles, is spring and September through early November, which makes it the perfect time to see the fall foliage. Begin your hike on the Virginia-West Virginia border in Clarke County. Many backpackers think this part of the AT is perfect for the spring break!
Tips along the way::
»Sky Meadows State Park in Fauquier County is a popular access point to the Palachian Trail. Primitive campsites are also available!
“The G. Richard Thompson Wildlife Sanctuary in Fauquier County is the best place to see wildlife. The trail stretches across the entire upper part of the area and runs for about 11 km.
Shenandoah National Park’s Palachian Trail
The best time to hike this part, 101 miles, is spring and September through October. The trail is well graded, well maintained, and gentle for the less experienced hiker. The parks close in early November through March, and the snow blocks Skyline Drive from motorists. Although cross-country skiers and snowshoe hikers are welcome!
Tips along the way::
“Shenandoah National Park has two lodges, Skyland and Big Meadows, as well as numerous campsites, roadsides, and camp shops along Skyline Drive that conform to AT. Backcountry permits are required if you will be camping in the park along the way.
Virginia’s central part of the Palachian Trail
The best time to hike this part, 225 miles, is spring and September through October. The trail gets harder the further south you go, with many 2,000 to 3,000 foot climbs crossing ridges and valleys. The trail follows the Blue Ridge Parkway to Roanoke.
Tips along the way:
“Bedford County’s George Washington & Jefferson National Forest has many primitive campsites.
“Peaks of Otter in Bedford County has the Peaks of Otter Lodge and many campsites.
Virginia’s southern end of the Palachian Trail
The best time to hike the southern end of the Palachian Process in Virginia (166 miles) is May through October. The AT travels west through the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests from Roanoke County to Pearisburg, Giles County. According to the Palachian Trail Conference, this part of the AT is the most remote and least traveled. By the time you reach Damascus, you will likely be ready for civilization again or you can start your hike on either the Virginia Creeper Trail or the Daniel Boone Wilderness Trail.
Tips along the way:
“The Big Walker Lookout is a 100 foot tower from which you can see the spectacular scenery.
The Mount Rogers National Recreation Area has many campsites and Mount Rogers, the highest peak in Virginia, and the Mount Rogers Scenic Byway.
»Grayson Highlands State Park offers access to the AT and numerous campgrounds, overlooks, and wild ponies.
»Damascus is an ideal place to start or end your AT hike. Free parking is available and shuttles can be arranged for easy walks.
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