The Appalachian Trail's Best Side Trips in Virginia

The Appalachian Trail is an astonishing 2,198 miles long. Easily one of the most famous hiking paths in the world, the start of the Appalachian Trail begins at Springer Mountain in Georgia and ends at Mount Katahdin in Maine. 


Virginia is home to more than 500 miles of the Appalachian Trail, nearly a quarter of its entirety. The Appalachian Trail in Virginia offers hikers a unique and unforgettable experience with beautiful scenery, challenging terrain, and a rich history. 


Here are our picks for the Appalachian Trails’ best sections and side trips in Virginia. Whether you’re thru-hiking the entire thing, or just want to get a taste of what the trail is all about, these hikes are for you. 

Calf Mountain via Appalachian Trail

  • Length: 2.9 miles
  • Elevation gain: 620 feet
  • Distance from us: 12.9 miles


The hike to Calf Mountain via the Appalachian Trail is a popular out-and-back trail that takes an average of an hour and a half to complete. Generally considered an easy route, the trail gently makes its way up through the forest to the summit, offering views of nearby Waynesboro and the surrounding mountains. 


Humpback Mountain & Humpback Rocks via Appalachian Trail & Albright Loop

  • Length: 12.7 miles
  • Elevation gain: 2,782 feet
  • Distance from us: 15.8 miles


The Humpback Rocks are massive greenstone outcroppings that stand out from the surrounding mountains. This hike, while challenging, is a great way to experience what life on the Appalachian Trail looks like, and you’re more than likely to run into some thru-hikers on this route. If you’re not wanting to tackle the whole loop, there are plenty of shorter routes to the rocks and the summit. 

Scott Mountain via Appalachian Trail

  • Length: 5.8 miles
  • Elevation gain: 1,030 feet 
  • Distance from us: 7.1 miles 


Scott Mountain is another great destination for anyone wanting to explore the Appalachian Trail and Shenandoah National Park. This out-and-back trail is rated as moderately challenging, with a consistent incline and plenty of rocks and greenery to navigate. It’s important to remember that the summit of Scott Mountain is on private property, so be sure to stay on the Appalachian Trail. 

Find Your Own Way

The Appalachian Trail is maintained, preserved, and managed by the Appalachian Trail Conservancy. One of the ways they do this is by providing an interactive map that allows you to plan trips and stay up-to-date on trail conditions. This map  is a valuable tool for anyone planning a trip along the Appalachian Trail.

Start at Misty Mountain Camp Resort

Located just minutes from the Appalachian Trail and Shenandoah National Park, the Misty Mountain Camp Resort is an ideal choice if you’re looking for a comfortable base camp as you start your own Appalachian adventure. With plenty of cabins, RV hookups, and tent sites spread over 50 acres, the Misty Mountain Camp Resort is as comfortable as it is conveniently located.