Where do you park for Old Rag trail?

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.

Is it hard to hike Old Rag?

Old Rag is the toughest but the most rewarding hike in Shenandoah National Park. Some people say it’s the best hike in the mid-Atlantic region. 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.

Why is it called Old Rag?

Old Rag Granite was named for Old Rag Mountain due to it’s prominence at this location. Old Rag is short for Old Raggedy, which is a term that refers to the irregular serrated outline of the mountain ridge.

Can dogs do Old Rag?

Dogs are not allowed on Old Rag’s hiking trails, so we figured someone brought a dog up anyhow, and then abandoned him when he could no longer follow along the rock scramble.

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.

How much does it cost to hike Old Rag?

The Old Rag hike at Shenandoah National Park makes many lists, including Outside Online, which ranked the hike among the 25 best hikes in the world….Old Rag: What to Know Before You Tackle This Bucket List Hike.

Trail Stats
Duration 5.5-6.5 hours
Terrain Mostly dirt, rock & gravel trails, plus intense rock scrambles
Dog-Friendly No
Fee $30 per vehicle (good for seven days)

Can you carry a gun in Shenandoah National Park?

As of February 22, 2010, federal law allows people who can legally possess firearms under applicable federal, state, and local laws, to legally possess firearms in this park.

How did Old Rag get its name?

Old Rag Granite was named for Old Rag Mountain due to it’s prominence at this location. Old Rag is short for Old Raggedy, which is a term that refers to the irregular serrated outline of the mountain ridge. Old Rag Granite is about 1.2 billion years old.