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Hike to Raven Rock

Bluemont, Virginia

4.3/5
based on 12 reviews

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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Features

Fitness
Rock Climbing
Camping
Photography
Backpacking
Hiking
Dog Friendly
Easy Parking
Forest
Scenic
Wildlife

Hike to Raven Rock Reviews

Good hike, decent views. Better hikes in the Shenandoah, but this is only about an hour from DC, which is nice.

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.

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.

Leave No Trace

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

Nearby

Hike to Bears Den Overlook

Hike Cool Spring Path

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