Day Hike - Old Rag (9.4 Miles)

LATE POSTING - We were rained out for backpacking

Old Rag is one of my favorite hikes on the east coast. The way up is nothing short of incredible - you will experience switchbacks, scrambles, false summits, interesting trail navigation, and absolutely amazing views. This is the iconic day hike in Shenandoah. Don't miss it. Please make sure to get a day-use ticket for $2 using the link below. Weather will be in the 80's so bring lots of water.

I've got no plans yet for food afterwards. We can discuss on the trail.

We will meet at Vienna Metro at 9AM and carpool to the trailhead. Drive time is about 1 hour and 45 mins - Please post a comment below if you are willing to drive. Carpooling saves the environment and makes friends.

## Trail Facts

• Difficulty Level: Strenuous
• Length: 9.4 Miles
• Duration: 5-6 hrs
• Elevation Gain: 2,604 Feet
• Permits: Old Rag Day Use Ticket: https://go.nps.gov/oldragticket
• Parking: Vienna Metro Station
• Dogs: Not Allowed
• Trailhead Coordinates: 38.571008, -78.293499
• AllTrails Map: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/virginia/old-rag-mountain-loop-trail?u=i&sh=rak641

Trail Details:

This hike, although challenging, is one of the most popular and spectacular hikes in Shenandoah National Park. It has been referred to as an “unforgettable” hike by many. Your climb to the peak includes many rocky switchbacks, various false peaks, and several scrambles. The descent, which will be slightly longer than your ascent, is a much more gradual grade that ends with an easy walk down a fire road. Unfortunately, dogs are not allowed on this trail.

This is a challenging hike that will take most of the day. It is highly recommended that you bring plenty of water as well as snacks and electrolytes (i.e. Gatorade). Hiking Old Rag is an adventure that should be on every Virginia hiker’s bucket list.

DAY USE TICKETS: Old Rag has become so popular that the National Park Service limits hikers via day-use tickets. The tickets are only $2, but they do sell-out. If you plan to attend this hike, please ensure you have a ticket in advance: https://www.nps.gov/shen/planyourvisit/faqs-oldrag.htm

LIABILITY NOTICE:
Please remember that this group operates under the common adventurer model. We are a group of friends and volunteers organizing trips for fun and shared experience. Participants are expected to be familiar with best hiking practices and choose hikes that align with their physical abilities and experience. Organizers and members are not liable for any injuries, loss, or damage to persons or property arising from group activities. By attending this event, you agree to assume all risks associated with the activity.​

For more information on the common adventurer model, please see Ron Watters' definition.​

If you believe you may be lost during the hike, follow the advice of the US Forest Service.
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See you on the trail!