Cole Mountain Loop

Vesuvius, Virginia

4.8/5
based on 9 reviews

Details

Distance

5.89 miles

Elevation Gain

1280 ft

Route Type

Loop

Description

Added by Sarah Gooch

A moderate hike that leads to spectacular views of large, open meadows at the summit.

The large open meadow at the summit of Cole Mountain is a unique and breathtaking experience that is worth the 5.8 mile hike. Cole Mountain is frequently referred to as Cold Mountain, but the official name listed by the United States Geological Survey is the former. This hike is in the George Washington National Forest and starts a few miles north of Route 60 in Central Virginia.

The parking area is near the end of the trail (there are signs marking the Appalachian Trail), but you should begin the hike about 0.2 miles north, on the blue-blazed Hotel Trail. The Hotel Trail will take you past a campsite (after 1.3 miles) and a shelter with a nearby campsite and stream (after 3 miles). The trail is easy to navigate, as long as you follow the signs and look for the blue blazes. When you reach the trail junction about a half mile after the passing the shelter, be sure to turn left towards the Appalachian Trail. Shortly thereafter, turn right upon reaching the intersection with the Appalachian Trail.

Follow the white blazes for the next mile, passing two viewpoints of the surrounding mountains. When the trees open up, you will be greeted with large open meadows on the saddle and the summit of Cole Mountain. This is a great area for a picnic; a favorite spot for hikers to stop and enjoy the view is a standalone tree near the end of the meadow. Continue along the bald summit until you reenter the trees, then follow the Appalachian Trail for 0.6 miles down to the parking area.

If you’re looking to extend your hike, you can combine this with the nearby Mount Pleasant hike, which provides equally stunning mountain views with comparable distance and level of difficulty. Also worth noting, the final 2 miles of the drive to the parking area is on a rocky, unmaintained road. Use caution and consider taking a high clearance vehicle if possible.

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Features

Hiking
Scenic

Cole Mountain Loop Reviews

Done in March 2020 with two senior Weimaraners. Loved every minute of this hike. It was the perfect length and level of difficulty for all of us. Great views. Would definitely do again. 2 hr 15 mins active hiking.

The road is unpaved and rutted, but fine if you take your time. Took the family yesterday with perfect cool, temps and it was great. Moderate uphills, flowing streams, and views for miles once you reach the bald. It is reminiscent of the Road highlands and a perfect place for a picnic.

The open field at the summit reminded me of the Roan Highlands area of NC. Its rare that you get such wide open views, so put this one on your list!

If you just do the trail straight up it only takes about 20 minutes to get to the open meadow. Perfect for sunrises, sunset and camping

The first and last portion of the hike are very plush, green and nicely shaded in the summer. When you reach the field at the top it's with golden hues and beautiful close to 360 views. I would definitely recommend checking this out!

This is a great spot to watch the sunset and is a really easy hike. You can quickly hike out to the summit or do the longer loop. If you do the longer loop you can find some campsites as well. Also you'll find apple trees above the bald!

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Mount Pleasant Loop

Photograph Statons Creek Falls

Hike to Wigwam Falls

Swim at Panther Falls

Spy Rock via Cash Hollow

Camp near Crabtree Meadows in GWNF