Old Rag: Virginia's favorite hike
If there's something Washingtonians aim to do, it's to climb higher – up the corporate ladder, the political spotlight, or anywhere higher than the Capitol, Washington's highest point. If you're feeling a little antsy above sea-level, fear not. Within an hour and a half of Washington lies Old Rag, Shenandoah National Park's most challenging and interesting hike. It is not for the faint of heart and requires hikers to be in some kind of athletic shape, or at least have experience in hiking.
The seven mile roundtrip loop up Old Rag Mountain ascends3,284 feet and takes about five hours, with a break at the summit for lunch. Though many Web sites will claim that it's best to start early, it's also okay to start mid-morning and ease your way up the mountain and back with plenty of daylight to spare, particularly in summer. Plan ahead in autumn when daylight hours are shorter. Make sure to bring plenty of water, bug spray, sunscreen, first-aid kit and food. In addition, wear shoes with good ankle support and strong tread for gripping the boulders at the top. Old Rag is difficult, if not dangerous, in rain, so don't attempt to ascend unless it's confirmed to be dry.
The trail begins at the lower parking lot, which is about .8 miles from the physical trailhead. The best route is to head up the steeper path via Ridge Trail and then back down the smoother Weakley Hollow Fire Road. The first two miles is a steep climb through the woods, followed by Old Rag's highlight: the rock scramble. Here, hikers climb, slide and hug themselves across granite boulders and squeeze themselves through narrow passages. The rocks are incredibly slippery and dangerous if wet, so avoid going on days that predict rain or are raining.
There are several pretend-summits that may fool you into believing you've reached the top. The rock scramble continues for a good ascent before you'll reach a sign that points you to the summit or towards the parking lot. In the descent, you'll reach Post Office Junction, the site of the former village of Old Rag which once had homes, a church and a post office before the Shenandoah National Park was created. As you continue down, you'll pass through the woods and a winding stream as well.
Old Rag costs the $10 per car entrance fee. There's nearby camping within Shenandoah and outside the park as well, and toilet facilities at the parking lot.
Posted by Rin-rin Yu
