The
view from Raven Rocks is
one of the best in the area. Although the distance is only
5.5 miles with a vertical gain of 1,530ft, as you can see from
the elevation profile, there are three strenuous ascents on
this out and back hike. Raven Rocks is also a popular area with rock climbers, as it can be accessed by a road 0.4 miles from
the east.
Make sure to wear sturdy footwear, as the hike that remains entirely on the white blazed Appalachian Trail,
is very rocky.
Begin the hike by heading north on the white
blazed Appalachian Trail, as it crosses over the first ridge,
then making several steep switchback descents before reaching a small run in 0.8 miles. 100 yards past
the run cross over an unblazed trail and remain on the Appalachian
Trail.
After ascending the next ridge come to a nice view of the
Winchester Valley to the west, before descending and arriving at the Raven
Rocks Hollow stream in 1.2 miles from the last run.
Climb the final ascent of 0.4 miles, passing a sign marking the Virginia, West Virginia border, then reaching Raven Rocks where
you will find fantastic
views towards the south west and the Shenandoah Valley.
During spring and fall, the Raven Rocks 100ft wall is a
favorite spot with local rock climbers. To return retrace your route 2.7 miles back to the parking
area at VA679 and Rt7.
Overall this is a great little out and back hike that is perfect for the shorter days in the winter.
Interactive Hike Map BelowPrintable
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Hiker
Reviews For The Raven Rocks Hike (5 Most Recent)
This was my first time at Raven Rocks and I have to admit it was a really nice hike. Though hikers may not cover a great deal of mileage, the hike is very bumpy and nearly the entire duration of the hike is "up-and-down." The view from the top was crystal clear and there were many scenic points that offered good views. All in all, it is a good hike, though there needs to be more parking available!
By:
Suz
Rating:
Date of Hike: Sunday, November 16, 2008
Great place for a late fall hike. Lots of leaves on the ground make it a little bit slippery, but still enjoyable. The dog only had trouble with a few of the rock crossings. When we arrived around noon, there was plenty of parking. Took us about 3 hrs 45 min to complete at a leisurely pace. Would like to come back in spring.
By:
Zanne
Rating:
Date of Hike: Sunday, November 02, 2008
I rated this a great hike for a couple of reasons. As previously mentioned, living in Sterling and finding a hike where you feel like you're AWAY from the world is GREAT in itself. The view was spectacular with the autumn leaves and well worth anyone taking the hike. Lots of rocks so yes, wear good ankle support if you can. Did the hike in 3 hours which included lunch so it's very do-able on an afternoon with time to spare!
By:
WyEast
Rating:
Date of Hike: Sunday, November 02, 2008
I hiked this on what must have been the best day for foliage of the year, so the view from the Rocks was gorgeous. I got a late start and hit the trail head around 9:30. But I only saw a group of 3 plus dog on the way up. I had the overlook to myself for a nice lunch break. The way down, though, I must have passed at least 30 people, and the crowdedness is why I give the hike only 3 stars, despite the nice view. It was a good workout, and an easy quick hike. The multiple ascent/descents made the hike pretty fun and varied. There was a fair bit of trash at the overlook that had fallen down between the rocks. Please be courteous and pack out your trash!
By:
Jeff
Rating:
Date of Hike: Sunday, October 26, 2008
The description is quite accurate, I had a pretty large group on this hike with people of varying abilities, but our actual hiking time was just under four hours, with extra thrown in for lunch on the beautiful overlook.
The trail was easy to keep and wasn't strenuous, although those with no experience may have difficulty with some of the rises and need to rest. The overlook is right after the state line and impossible to miss, it's pretty much as advertised. Take a camera and boots.
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