The Complete Guide to Hiking Old Rag in Shenandoah National Park
Looking for a bucket list hike in Virginia? Look no further than Old Rag in Shenandoah National Park. Often rated as one of the best hikes in the United States, hiking Old Rag offers amazing views and quite an interested trail with its infamous rock scramble that challenges even the seasoned hikers.
To make your day hike to Old Rag go smoothly, you’ll need to do some planning. Between the ~9 mile distance, parking lots that fill up quickly, and challenging rock scrambles, you’ll find all the details you need to hit the Old Rag trail with confidence.
Getting to the Old Rag Trailhead
The Old Rag Trailhead actually sits outside of the central part of Shenandoah National Park and will need to be approached from the eastern side of the park. This is outside of the “entrance gates” to the park, but you’ll still be required to pay the entrance fee to hike Old Rag. Let’s take a look at the details.
Old Rag Parking Area
If there’s one thing to take away, it’s to get to the Old Rag parking lots early as they do fill up quickly! I arrived around 7:30am on the Saturday of Labor Day weekend and the first parking lot – the upper lot – was almost full. From there it spills into the lower lots, but some of these add a half mile each way to your hike.
Another option is to get there after noon. Of course you’ll want to make sure to give yourself plenty of time to complete the hike during daylight hours, but this is when the early risers will be completing the hike opening up parking spots. The parking lots will likely still have “Lot Full” signs propped outside of them, but drive in and check it out. There are possibly spots available!
To get to the Old Rag trailhead, you’ll want to head to the back of the upper lot near a couple of small buildings. Here you’ll find the National Park pay station as well as the trailhead bathrooms. From there, head to your left and up the trail!
Make getting there early easy by staying at one of the best hotels near Shenandoah National Park!
Shenandoah National Park Entrance Fee
Even though the parking area for Old Rag sits outside of the central part of Shenandoah National Park, you are required to pay the Shenandoah entrance fee to hike Old Rag. There is a manned pay station at the trailhead, so take cash with you or your National Park pass. The fee is $30 per car.
Read more about what you need to know before you go to Shenandoah National Park.
Old Rag Trail Options
There are two well known routes to Old Rag, the traditional trail which will take you through the Old Rag rock scramble and the fire road. These each come with their advantages and shortcomings which we’ll dive into, but both will take you to the 3,284′ summit.
An even better option is to do the Old Rag Mountain Loop trail by going up one way and down the other. The most traditional route to Old Rag takes you clockwise up the rock scramble and down the fire road.
Summit Ridge Trail with the Infamous Boulder Scramble
Following the Summit Ridge Trail to the Old Rag summit is one of the best hikes in Shenandoah National Park. This 7 mile out and back trail will take you through the forest, up some subtle switchbacks to the infamous Old Rag rock scramble that has made this trail so popular.
I’m sure you’re wondering what the boulder scramble at Old Rag is really like, and admittedly It’s tough. It lasts for over a mile and has you lifting your full body weight up over and around boulders. At times you have to crawl under rocks or drop down into crevasses. There were even a few areas where I needed to remove my day pack to be able to fit through!
It’s not for the faint-hearted, but it is also a lot of fun and breaks up the hiking with some extra challenges and “fun”.
- Roundtrip Distance to Old Rag: 7 miles
- Trail Terrain: Challenging with a mile+ boulder scramble
- Time Needed: ~4 – 5 hours depending on your fitness and the crowds at the rock scramble
- Type of Trail: Out & back
- Elevation Gain: 2,362 feet
The Weakley Hollow Fire Road Route to Old Rag
An easier, but longer route to Old Rag is to take the Weakley Hollow Fire Road trail. You’ll follow the fire road for about 4 miles of fairly steady terrain and then turn onto Saddle Trail to start gaining more elevation as you climb to the Old Rag Summit.
This route is longer than the Summit Ridge trail, but you’ll find the ground is far more even with just small rocks to keep your eyes open for, and you’ll avoid the Old Rag boulder scramble. This is ideal for those who may not be able to pull themselves up and over boulders or squeeze through tight spaces as required on the rock scramble.
- Roundtrip Distance to Old Rag: 9.7 miles
- Trail Terrain: Slow incline on a fire road, easier to navigate, and no boulder scramble
- Time Needed: ~5 hours
- Type of Trail: Out & back
- Elevation Gain: 2,381 feet
Old Rag Mountain Loop
If you opt to do the Old Rag Mountain Loop trail, which is my recommendation, you’ll get the best of both worlds. As with the other two routes, you’ll head up from the parking lot and go clockwise. This will take you up the Summit Ridge Trail to tackle the infamous Old Rag rock scramble and then you can take the Weakley Fire Road on the way back to recover.
Not to mention loop trails are the best as you’ll have different scenery the entire journey!
- Roundtrip Distance to Old Rag: 9.5 miles
- Trail Terrain: A bit of everything from rock scrambles to fire roads
- Time Needed: ~ 4 – 6.5 hours depending on your fitness and the crowds at the rock scramble
- Type of Trail: Loop
- Elevation Gain: 2,683 feet
The Old Rag Summit
The summit of Old Rag sits at 3,284 feet and offers fabulous 360 degree views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. With many boulders sticking out of the top, you’ll be able to climb up and find a perch to relax and take in the views. If you plan ahead, you can even have lunch at the top to recharge for your hike back down.
Note that there are quite a few false summits that you’ll encounter, but don’t be fooled. You’ll know you’ve reached the top when you see a sign for Old Rag summit.
Alternate Route from Berry Hollow to Old Rag Mountain
There is another trail that will take you to Old Rag Mountain that is a bit less traveled and less strenuous. This is the Berry Hollow trail. You’ll need to park at the Berry Hollow Parking lot to access this trail. This parking lot also fills up, but not quite as quickly as the Old Rag parking area.
On this trail, you’ll start by walking up a road into the forest until you hit Post Office Junction where you’ll turn onto Weakley Fire Road and continue up to Old Rag Shelter. There you’ll turn onto Saddle Trail and follow it up past Byrds Nest to Old Rag Summit – similarly to the Weakley Fire Road trail.
At only 5.4 miles long, the Berry Hollow Trail to Old Rag is a perfect alternative for hikers looking to get to the summit with a little less effort.
- Total Distance: 5.4 miles
- Trail Terrain: Moderate most of the way, no boulder scramble
- Time Needed: 2.5 – 3.5 hours
- Type of Trail: Out & back
- Elevation Gain: 1,745 feet
Learn about the 28 best things to do in Shenandoah National Park.
Need to Know about Old Rag Mountain
The Old Rag hike is known for being one of the most difficult and picturesque hikes in Shenandoah National Park. It will take you through all kinds of terrain challenging even the seasoned hiker. Be prepared to tackle this adventurous hike with more tips and insight into what it takes to make it to the summit.
Tips for Hiking Old Rag Mountain
Hiking Old Rag can be challenging from the distance to the elevation climb and the infamous boulder scramble. These tips for hiking Old Rag in Shenandoah National Park will help you know what you’re getting into before you set out.
- Follow the blue blazes on the trail! They can be hard to find during the boulder scramble, but they will point you on your way. You’ll need to really search for some of them as they may be up and over boulders or down into crevasses and under boulders.
- Many of the blue blazes have numbers written in them, these are in case of an emergency on Old Rag. Call the Shenandoah Park Emergency Number (800-732-0911) and provide the emergency responders the closest blue blaze number.
- Beware of the false summits. There are multiple amazing viewpoints before you get to the Old Rag summit. Don’t be fooled – keep going until you get to the sign that tells you that you made it!
- There are two shelters on the trail near the summit: Byrds Nest Shelter and Old Rag Shelter. You will not encounter these before the summit if you’re coming up Summit Ridge Trail with the boulder scramble, but they are available shortly after the summit. All other routes will take you past them on the ascent.
- There are bathrooms available at the parking area for Old Rag and one up at the Old Rag Shelter. I recommend packing toilet paper just in case!
- Do not attempt this hike if the weather is less than ideal – this includes rain and ice. The rock scramble will become incredibly dangerous and potentially impassible. Additionally, hiking Old Rag in winter is not recommended if there is any inclement weather.
- Give yourself plenty of time! While this hike only took me about 4.5 hours, it can take much longer. This not only depends on your hiking abilities but also the weather and the crowds. If the trail is busy, you may get stuck waiting on the rock scramble while people maneuver their way up and around the boulders.
What to Wear for Old Rag
If you’re new to hiking, it’s worth noting that wearing the right thing can make or break your hike – particularly your shoes! Here are some key items needed in preparing for Old Rag.
- Hiking boots: With the rocky terrain and rock scrambling, you’ll need to wear shoes with serious traction! They will help keep you safe as you lower yourself into tight spaces or jump from rock to rock.
- Long pants or capris: You’ll want to protect your knees on the rock scramble! Otherwise, it is likely you’ll end up with a few bumps, bruises, and scrapes.
- Sunscreen: While much of the hike is in the shade of the forests, by the time you get to the Old Rag rock scramble and the summit you’ll be mostly exposed to the sun.
What to Pack for the Old Rag Hike
The Old Rag hike requires you pack a few things to reach the summit safely. Here are some of the most important considerations.
- 3 liters of water: This hike can take a lot out of you. Don’t skimp on the water, especially if it is summer!
- Snacks: Take something to eat at the top or whenever you need an extra boost of energy. You’ll really earn it on the Old Rag trail.
- Trekking poles: While trekking poles may be a hinderance during the rock scramble, they’ll help save your knees from all of the ups and downs on the trail.
- First aid kit: Scrambling over rocks and boulders can lead to bruises, bumps, and scrapes (or worse). Take what you need to address light wounds.
- Workout gloves: Protect your hands on the rock scramble!!
Know what to pack for a day hike with the Essential Hiking Packing List.
Frequently Asked Questions about Hiking Old Rag
You’re almost ready to conquer the Old Rag hike, but there are likely a few lingering questions. Get the answers to those questions and then gear up to scramble up the mountain to memorable views!
Can you hike Old Rag alone?
Hiking Old Rag alone is a challenge at times as some of the boulder scramble can be easier with a helping hand. However, I hiked Old Rag alone and had no problem completing it. Not to mention as a popular hike in Shenandoah National Park, you’re sure to encounter a lot of friendly hikers along the way!
How difficult is it to hike Old Rag Mountain?
The Old Rag hike is one of the toughest ones in Shenandoah National Park, but it is well worth the effort! If you are a beginner hiker, this may not be the best hike for you, but most adults in decent shape and even kids can make the hike to the Old Rag summit. Just make sure to wear the right shoes, take some food and water with you, and pace yourself. It’s not a race.
Is hiking Old Rag dangerous?
Every year there are hikers that are injured, dehydrated, and just plain exhausted from hiking Old Rag. There have even been a few deaths at Old Rag Mountain, so make sure you are able to conquer this challenging hike prior to setting out.
While rescues can be done, they take hours and can almost always be avoided with proper planning and training! If you’re in doubt, try one of the other amazing things to do in Shenandoah.
Can you hike Old Rag for sunrise?
It is possible to hike Old Rag Mountain at sunrise, but you’ll need to check the time of sunrise and then give yourself plenty of extra time to reach the summit before the sun creeps up. As it can be difficult to find the blue blazes during the day, it gets even harder in the dark. Make sure to pack a headlamp to help you navigate your way. You would also be wise to take a guide who has hiked Old Rag before so that you do not lose your way.
Most of all, if you want to try and tackle Old Rag in the dark, take your time so that you don’t get hurt along the way. It is also best to take the fire road up in the dark to avoid trying to boulder scramble in the dark. When in doubt, just stay put until daylight and then continue your climb to the summit.
Is Old Rag dog friendly?
While dogs are allowed on many of the trails in Shenandoah National Park, Old Rag is not one of them. This is likely due to the challenging rock scramble which would be incredibly difficult and unsafe for most dogs as well as the number of hikers on the trails.
Prepare for Your Trip to Shenandoah National Park
Planning a trip to Shenandoah National Park is not without its challenges. Learning when to go, what to see, how to navigate it, and where to stay are all critical elements. Don’t worry, I have you covered with the full Know Before You Go to Shenandoah National Park list!
Additionally, there are plenty of things to keep you busy around Shenandoah National Park. While hiking Old Rag may be one of the top things to do, you’ll want to plan more of your time there with full insight into the 28 Best Things to Do in Shenandoah National Park and the Must Visit Mileposts on Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park.
Plan to stay overnight at one of the amazing hotels in the area. Check out Where to Stay for Shenandoah National Park: Best Hotels & Areas.
Safe travels!
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