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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

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!

Have been coming to this spot since I was a kid and it never gets old. The hike is the perfect length and is well worth the view. I've also done a few of the climbs here too which are a blast in the spring, summer and fall. Easy enough for anyone looking for a good intro to some local climbing.

This is definitely my favorite hike in this area, its challenging enough to get a good workout and offers some of the best views around here. It gets pretty busy on weekends so be sure to arrive early. I've stuck to weekdays and have mostly had the entire trail and overlook to myself.

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