Hike to Raven Rock
Bluemont, Virginia
Details
Distance
5 miles
Elevation Gain
1000 ft
Route Type
Out-and-Back
Description
Added by Jack Staples
This is a great hike right off of Route 7 on the Appalachian Trail that leads to a great view and some backcountry camping opportunities.
Starting at a small parking lot right off of Route 7 (wuick right onto Pine Grove Road) this hike takes you North on the Appalachian Trail in a very hilly/rocky part of the trail. Expect to gain and lose 300 feet+ multiple times! It's about 2.5 miles each way so budget at least a few hours to go out and back, or even better you can bring a tent and set up camp right behind the overlook in a well defined camp area. The sunrise views (this is an easy-facing lookout) are amazing and it's usually much less crowded than Bears Den. If you're up for a more challenging hike, this is a great place to go!
P.S. If you are interested and experienced in rock climbing, there is a great rock wall here about 70 feet tall that is frequented by rock climbers during the warmer months.
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Reviews
Close-by to another great hike, so you can knock both out in a day!
5.0
The trail was crowded but for a holiday weekend not Too bad. It’s well marked and the view at the end is a nice destination. I saw police ticketing cars parked illegally along the side of the road (the trail head spots were full) so just be careful when/where you park.
4.0
We clocked this hike at 2.6 miles out and 2.6 miles back in 4 hours and 30 minutes (including a 30 minute rest at the top). It is u and down both ways but the trek to the top took about an hour longer than the journey back. Our boys are 8 and 10 and managed the entire hike with a little whining. The views up top are really beautiful and the adventure through the forest is great. We saw deer, fox, centipedes, lizards, and a squirrel the size of a raccoon.
5.0
This hike has everything! Elevation, crossing creeks, views, length. Great hike for experienced hikers looking for a challenge
5.0
This is a nice out and back hike that can get your blood pumping. The rocky terrain and several mild inclines keep it interesting. The views at the top are nice and would be a great lunch spot. Like other people have mentioned, it is called raven ROCK for a reason, so if you have weak ankles, wear a sturdy hiking boot. Also, keep in mind that this is a popular trail on the weekend so be sure to get there early.
4.0
Made the mistake of wearing Nike Frees and almost cost myself a sprained ankle since there were so many rocks.
4.0
Good hike, decent views. Better hikes in the Shenandoah, but this is only about an hour from DC, which is nice.
3.0
This part of the AT is very rocky and there are seldom few parts of trail that is flat and smooth. You're constantly needing to watch your footing. It is also very hilly and you're consistently either going up or down an incline. Once you do get to the overlook it isn't overly crowded which is nice and there's plenty of room to sorta find your own spot to relax.
4.0
This hike was a great workout/experience. The loss & gains in elevation keep you on your feet and your heart rate up without making you feel like you're continuously going upward. The summit view is amazing and the perfect place to picnic. Parking can be a bit annoying, its a small lot and you're at risk for towing if you park along 679. I parked off highway 7 and at the time I was the only car, but returned later in the afternoon to find it populated with several cars and mine wasn't towed! So yay! would definitely recommend.
5.0
I was really excited for this trail as I love doing different sections of the AT. It was our mistake to go on a Saturday. We assumed because it was a cold November day there would be less people. Wrong. The trail was hugely crowded. We were always in sight of other hikers. Once to the top, there were probably 20 others. In addition to the crowds, it was more rocky than other sections I've done. So rocky that it made it hard to look up. This trail is a good workout. Lots of steep incline which I enjoyed. The views are quiet beautiful as well. If you're like me, and like to hike to get away from all the hustle and bustle of life, avoid this trail on the weekend!
3.0
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Nearby
Hike to Bears Den Overlook
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Hike to Hollow Brook Falls
Hike to the Piedmont Overlook
Camp at Sky Meadows State Park
Trail Run the AT in the G.R. Thompson
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