This hike is great for a sunrise or sunset and feels similar to hiking the grassy balds of North Carolina. For a shorter route, you could simply park at the AT trailhead and hike south on the AT. You will enter the meadow at about 1 mile and hike along the meadows for 0.5 miles, making for an out and back hike of 3 miles. Also, Sarah's warning about the road shouldn't be ignored...the gravel road to the parking lot is pretty rough, but just drive slow to avoid scraping the bottom of your car.
4.0
Lake Moomaw is one of the most beautiful places I've been in Virginia. Be sure to double check that you have everything you need before driving out to the lake because there aren't any stores around. This lake is quite secluded and you probably wont encounter many people on the trail...a truly hidden gem.
5.0
Christina and the other reviewers aren't joking about the bear spray-I was hiking in a group of three and saw a grizzly cub about 20 feet off the trail even though there were many other hikers around. These two lakes are a peaceful, fairly flat short hike with great views. For nice reflection photos, go in the early morning for good lighting and still waters. Don't forget to check out the small side trail to the portage between these two lakes-it is quite interesting to see.
4.0
Arguably the most crowded hike in the Tetons. It is recommended to take the Jenny Lake shuttle at least one way ($9/person) to cut off the 2 miles of trail around Jenny Lake. Try hiking past Inspiration Point into Cascade Canyon to get away from some of the crowds and for some jaw-dropping views.
4.0
Yes-it is a lot of stairs...but the trail is short enough it shouldn't be an issue for the average person. There are platforms and a few benches to rest on after every 50 stairs or so if needed. The parking lot can get quite crowded and it may be difficult to find a parking space during the summer at mid-day. If you're lucky and the sun is in the right spot (around noon in the summer), you'll see a beautiful double rainbow over the falls.
4.0
Located near the middle of the park, this hike allows you to see 360 views of the entire park and the Tetons 75 miles away in the distance. In mid-June there was still snow covering parts of the trail near the top, but the snow is compacted and easily passable due to the amount of traffic on the trail. The wind at the top is relentless and it will be cold at the summit regardless of how warm it is at the base of the mountain. Arrive early because the trailhead lot can fill up quickly. Carry bear spray.
4.0
This is the perfect hike to get away from some of the crowds in Yellowstone. There are about 15-16 switchbacks winding up the mountain, but you'll be at the top before you know it with 360 degree views of the park. The trail at the top is all loose rocky talus, so wearing boots is a good idea. A light jacket would also be useful since it can get very windy at the top. For a wildflower-lined trail hike Bunsen Peak in June or July. Don't forget your bear spray!
5.0
Don't let the crowds and cars parked along the road scare you away. With a little patience you can see the beauty of the Grand Prismatic Spring too-and you'll likely never forget it. Since it's so easily accessible-be prepared for large groups of tourists. It would be best to go really early or late in the day. The place can get windy and there were windblown hats all over the springs, so hold on to your hats. Also, respect the boardwalks and signs...resist the urge to touch the hot springs so future visitors can enjoy the thermal features just like you.
5.0
Obviously Old Faithful is a must-see when visiting Yellowstone. Because of that-there will likely be at least 1,000 other people watching the eruption with you (if you're there during the summer). To avoid some of the crowds, take a short hike up to Observation Point to watch Old Faithful erupt from atop a hill. Remember to always stay on the boardwalks and never touch the thermal features.
4.0
As others have said-combining this waterfall with the Rose River Falls hike makes for a nice loop. But if only wanting a short hike, Dark Hollow Falls alone will suffice. Keep in mind the trail is quite steep, so you'll have to hike back up as far as you come down. I've spotted bears more than once in the stream to the right of the trail just a short distance down the trail from the parking lot.
4.0
The trail is short, but interesting because of the mini rock scramble it takes to get to the summit. The views from here are outstanding any time of year, but it is especially a treat to hike up during peak fall colors.
5.0
The hike is fairly well-known and can get quite crowded, but the views are simply stunning! The trail is very steep the whole way up to the summit, but the trail is short enough that you'll be at the summit before you get too tired. This is the perfect spot to view a sunset from.
4.0
As other reviews have hinted at...hiking here feels more like being in the Scottish Highlands than in Virginia. The wild ponies are definitely a plus, just please resist the urge to feed them. There are many places to pitch a tent if wanting to turn this hike into a backpacking trip. Though the summit of Mt. Rogers is forested, this is one of only a few mountains in Virginia with high enough elevations to have a spruce-fir forest, making the trail to the summit quite enchanting.
5.0
The hike can get quite steep if hiking from the Sunset Field Overlook on the Blue Ridge Parkway. But it's short enough that it is not too strenuous. Well worth the trip to see this waterfall. For long exposures the early morning hours would be best for photographs.
4.0
If driving the Blue Ridge Parkway, this waterfall is worth a short side trip. It isn't too difficult to walk down to the falls. It would be best to visit either during winter or right after a rain to have higher water levels because the falls can become more of a small trickle in the summer.
4.0
This is a nice, gradually-climbing hike to a small outcrop. The view from the outcrop is partially obstructed by trees, but is still a nice view. The hike can also be done going south on the Appalachian Trail from Rt. 42. From this direction it passes through meadows, crosses streams, and also has a shelter for camping. Round trip distance from Rt. 42 would be 8.2 miles.
4.0
This is a nice hike, but the views aren't so great. Best to go in winter when leaves aren't on the trees. It is nice, however, when the mountain laurel are in bloom. Could be combined with the Wind Rock hike if you take the spur trail to the Appalachian Trail.
3.0
Nice write up! This is a beautiful waterfall that provides more solitude than other waterfalls in Shenandoah. Water levels might be low during the summer, and be on the lookout for bears. For a longer hike, combine Rose River Falls with Dark Hollow Falls.
4.0
The trailhead for Sharp Top is actually to the left of the Nature Center-but it is clearly marked. It's a difficult hike for such a short mileage-most of it is very steep and there are 100+ stairs near the top of the mountain. The 360 degree views are great for both sunrises and sunsets. The short spur to Buzzard's Roost is also worth it if you have the time.
4.0
Though a short and easy walk through the woods, Roaring Run is definitely a place to add to your list. Within 100 yards or so of the parking lot you'll start seeing bigger and taller rock slides. As you work your way up the trail crossing 5 or 6 bridges, the drops get larger and larger until you reach the main falls, which wont disappoint. Early morning light is optimal for long exposure photography here.
4.0
This hike is much less crowded and will offer more solitude than Sharp Top nearby. Can be done either as a shuttle hike or an out and back hike. Views to the east are great, especially at sunrise.
4.0
Great spot with beautiful views accessed via minimal effort. As others have said-perfect for sunset photography!
4.0
One of my favorites in Virginia-there's nothing else quite like it. It takes a lot of time and mental focus to ascend all the boulders, but the view at the top (and the exercise) is definitely worth it. For an added bonus, check out the nearby Cave Mountain Lake for a swim or to camp.
5.0
This waterfall is a well-kept secret. The Appalachian Trail passes within 0.1 miles of the falls so if you want to turn exploring this waterfall into a hike, there's options for that too!
4.0
Community
Mobile Apps
© 2024 The Outbound Collective - Terms of Use - Privacy Policy