Old Rag Loop--Tickets Required! (Rating: A)
Details
You must read the following NVHC Sign-in Sheet Statement/Liability Disclaimer, https://nvhc.com/signin.pdf and then answer the question that you will see when you RSVP with "I accept" to be permitted on the hike.
You must purchase a ticket from recreation.gov to do Old Rag. As of today there are plenty of tickets available, but I suggest you get yours ASAP if you plan to go. The hike is 9.5 miles and about 2500 feet. We will be doing the traditional route up the rock scramble and down the fire road. We'll hike at a moderate pace, aiming for 2.25 mph uphill, slower on the scramble, and a little faster downhill. There are several great vistas starting just over halfway up the scramble; and of course the summit has a great view where we’ll plan to have lunch.
You will need:
TICKETS! Printed out or take a screen shot. There is no signal at the Ranger Station.
Hiking boots or trail running shoes with good traction, at least 2 quarts of water, lunch.
Hiking poles are up to you, but get in the way during the rock scramble.
You might want to wear gloves suitable for the scramble.
All participants must be fit enough to do this hike, there are a few places where you'll use all four limbs.
Dogs: The Park Service does not allow dogs on the Old Rag trail.
Carpools: Meet at the Centreville Park and Ride to form carpools and leave by 7:15am. Suggested carpool fee is $8. The driving time from Centerville is 80 minutes. The leader will be at the carpool location. GPS Coordinates: 38.836038, -77.455371, https://goo.gl/maps/hc3LRG7Hsy2wMJs18
Meet at the Ranger Station by 8:45am to get checked in and start at 9:00.
Old Rag Mountain Fee and Information Station GPS: 38°34'15.2"N 78°17'37.3"W
Neither the Club nor the hike leaders are responsible for coordinating transportation to/from the trailhead. Hikers are not guaranteed to get a ride to the trailhead from the carpool location. Carpooling is organized by the participants and they participate at their own risk.
Maps:
https://www.nps.gov/shen/planyourvisit/upload/OldRag_RoadTrail.pdf
Cost:
- Tickets must be purchased for each hiker for $2 from recreation.gov.
- Although parking is free, you need to show a Park Pass or you will need to pay the entrance fee of $30/vehicle. Park Passes can be purchased at the Old Rag parking lot pay booth.