- Make sure you are physically able to complete the hike. …
- Check the forecast, and never attempt the hike during wet or icy conditions.
- Take at least 2 quarts of water per person.
- Wear sturdy, comfortable shoes that provide good ankle support and a firm grip on the bare rock.
How difficult is it to hike Old Rag?
The Old Rag hike is
strenuous
, with lots of switchback trails and rock scrambling. The reward from the top of Old Rag is a 360° view of the Shenandoah Mountains. It’s a fun, challenging hike that is great for adults and very adventurous kids.
How long does it take to hike to the top of Old Rag?
Plan on this hike taking
at least seven hours
to complete. You will be using both upper and lower body strength due to the boulder scramble.
What should I bring to an Old Rag?
Other tips for hiking at Old Rag is to bring
a pair of hiking gloves, and wear long sleeves clothes and long pants for skin protection
. Many times you will have close contact with the rocks and sometimes on your knees. So wearing the right clothes would prevent you getting scraped by rocks.
Can I hike Old Rag alone?
Allow 4-8 hours to complete the Old Rag circuit. I did it in just under five hours, moving fairly quickly with several photo breaks and a 30-45 minute break at the summit to drink my beer and eat my Pringles.
You can hike Old Rag as a circuit (9.1 miles) or an out and back (8.2 miles)
.
What is a rock scramble?
Rock scrambling is
a method of ascending rocky faces and ridges
. It’s not rock climbing, but it’s not walking either. Rock scrambles are typically associated with trails that offer ‘non-technical’ summits as a destination.
Can dogs hike Old Rag?
Pets are prohibited on the following trails:
Limberlost Trail (mile 43) Post Office Junction to Old Rag Shelter
.
Old Rag Ridge Trail
.
Old Rag Saddle Trail
.
Where do you park at Old Rag?
Parking. Although Old Rag Mountain is within the boundaries of Shenandoah National Park, most people approach it from the Park’s eastern boundary, instead of from Skyline Drive. You are still required to pay an entrance fee, but
parking at the lots operated by the National Park Service is free
.
Where can I camp to hike Old Rag?
Old Rag Parking in
Weakley Hollow
is the best place for circuit hikers who do not plan to stay overnight. However, overnight stays are best done from Berry Hollow Parking. You can hike in and set up your camp (including properly hanging your food and scented items) before climbing Old Rag.
Do you need a reservation to hike Old Rag?
Hikers must purchase their tickets in advance via www.recreation.gov
. Tickets will not be available at the Old Rag fee station, and there is very little cell phone coverage in the area. Tickets may be purchased up to 30 days in advance and are valid for the day of arrival only.
What time does Old Rag start?
Purchase Old Rag Day-Use Ticket Online
If hiking on the weekend, the best time to arrive is by
7 a.m.
beating the crowds.
How do you scramble when hiking?
How do you start a scrambling?
- Research your route. Know what grade you’ll be tackling, and the rough route you’re taking, particularly on your first scramble.
- Pick up a good pair of boots. …
- Test handholds and foot placements before putting your full weight through them. …
- Slow and steady wins the race. …
- Down-climbing is usually tougher.
What is Hill scrambling?
Scrambling is
the territory that lies between hill-walking and rock climbing
. Scrambling requires you to ascend a mountain or a hill using your hands to climb short sections of steep ground: hence it’s definitely more than hill-walking.
Why is Shenandoah National Park closed?
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, the Shenandoah National Park is closing to all visitors.
What is a switchback in hiking?
The North American usage of the term switchback means a 180-degree bend in a road or path, and in hiking it refers to
the zigzag-like route a hiking trail often takes
. Ancient humans recognized that the best way up a steep slope is to wind up it, as evidenced in trails like the Inca Trail.
