Old Rag Mountain encompasses 200,000 acres of breathtaking wilderness, the rolling mountains, shady forests and quiet hollows of Shenandoah National Park. This is a hiker’s paradise, but where to start? The park has over 500 hiking trails, including 100 miles of the Appalachian Trail.
The top of Old Rag Mountain is the most popular hike in Shenandoah. Old Rag is so popular because of its rocky summit and difficult terrain. These long stretches of bare rock resemble the rugged peaks of Yosemite. To experience this, you need to find the right place to stay overnight to enjoy the experience. This article presents you with the best hotels, guesthouses and campsites.
Accommodations
Table Of Contents
Hotels and Motels
Hillside Motel
Hillside Motel is 10.0 miles from Old Rag Mountain Hike. Rooms start from 65. It is between the Blue Ridge and Massanutten Mountains. That is a few minutes from the Thornton Gap entrance of the Skyline Drive (Virginia.org). Enjoy the Shenandoah Valley, but they are seasonal and open between April and October each year.
Quality Inn
Quality Inn is 11.7 miles from Old Rag Mountain Hike. Each room starts from a minimum of 76. Lt is an embodiment of value, comfort, and convenience. There is proximity to Luray Singing Tower, and guest rooms offer amenities such as a flat-screen TV, air conditioning, and a refrigerator. Guests can go online with free wifi offered by the motel.
Luray Best Western features a 24-hour front desk, room service, and express check-in and check-out. It offers a pool and an on-site restaurant. It is close to Circa ’31 at the Mimslyn Inn (0.1 mi), Speakeasy Bar (0.1 mi), and Uncle Buck’s Family Restaurant (0.4 mi). These are within walking distance of Quality Inn.
Hotel Laurance
The stunning Laurance Hotel is just outside Shenandoah NP, and within walking distance of town. It is ideal for families since it offers full kitchens and more traditional hotel rooms. Many of the restaurants in town close early, so having your kitchen can be an advantage.
Village Inn
The Village Inn is one of the best hotels for families in the Shenandoah Valley. It has affordable rates, an outdoor swimming pool, a shuffleboard court, and a playground for the kids. This hotel is in a peaceful location with beautiful fields, making it an easy place to stop along your journey.
Bed and Breakfasts
Hawksbill House
This is an adults-only bed and breakfast in Luray, an old Victorian house within walking distance from downtown. It features quiet surroundings, a delicious breakfast, and comfortable rooms at Hawksbill House. Rooms also come with a desk, fridge, and coffee machine. You can also make use of the onsite hot tub.
Belle Meade Bed & Breakfast
It is 7.2 miles from downtown Sperryville and 14.4 miles from the Thornton Gap Entrance of Shenandoah National Park. Belle Meade Bed & Breakfast costs 205. You can play golf and use the swimming pool.
The Inn at Mount Vernon Farm
It has a Brief room for 305. This upscale B&B and farm is 2.5 miles from downtown Sperryville and 9.5 miles from Shenandoah National Park. Enjoy your Breakfast and stay connected to the Wi-Fi. There is free parking and air conditioning.
Vacation Rentals
Old Rag Mountain Cabin
Old Rag Cabin is near hiking trails such as Old Rag Mountain and White Oak Canyon Falls. It is on 4 secluded, wooded acres in the Blue Ridge mountains. The cabin is close to the Rose and Robinson Rivers. Enjoy hiking, fishing, scenic drives, campfires, wine tasting, civil war battlefields, apple picking, and horseback riding. It is ideal for a romantic getaway or a family vacation. The cabin is very cozy and comfortable.
Birch’s Library at Old Rag Cabins
Birch’s Library is a year-round, insulated house with rustic charm and modern amenities. The wood paneling, stonework, and open floor plan create a wonderful mountain lodge retreat. The kitchen opens to the great room with an 8-foot dining table. The large bedroom has two raised twin beds, a table, a rocker, and a wood stove. For two more people, there is a queen-size futon sofa/bed.
The cabin has heat and air conditioning, and a supplemental wall-mounted propane heater is in the hallway to the bathroom and laundry room. During the coldest months, the Great Room wood stove brings the cabin up to a comfortable temperature. Ceiling fans help keep temperatures even in winter and summer.
Campgrounds
Graves Mountain Farm Campground
The campground is next to Shenandoah National Park. There are no hookups, but they have a dump station for tenting RVs and horse camping. That is on Blue Ridge Farm by Shenandoah National Park. No reservation is required, 30 acres of camping, 1100 acre farm, and 18 miles of trails. There are two mountain streams, two fishing ponds, fly fishing, hiking, riding, biking, weekend live music at Lodge, a full restaurant, Market-Deli & Tackle corner store with camping needs, and take-out foods.
Big Meadows Campground
Big Meadows Campground is in Shenandoah National Park, providing easy access to the most popular destinations in the Park, including Big Meadows, Dark Hollow Falls, and Byrd Visitor Center. All sites include a place for a tent or RV, a fire ring, and a picnic table. All sites at Big Meadows Campground will soon be by reservation only. Visitors can still claim a first-come, first-served site.
Activities
Hiking Old Rag Mountain
The Old Rag hike is the most popular trail in Shenandoah National Park, but also the most dangerous. Every year, hikers become injured, exhausted, or dehydrated on the trail and must be rescued. This is due to the trail length and the difficulty of the terrain. The rescue often takes hours.
Other Outdoor Activities
- Fishing
- Horseback riding
- Sightseeing
- Cycling
Indoor Activities
- Elevation Sports
- Stonewall Jackson’s Headquarters
- Crack The Code Escape Room
- University Chapel & Galleries
Local Events
- Forest sun
- Red Wing Roots Music Festival
- Bluegrass Festival
- Apple Harvest Festival
Dining
Restaurants Near Old Rag Mountain
- Pollock Dining Room at Skyland
- Brookside Restaurant & Cabins
- Off the Grid
Grocery Stores and Market
- The Little Country Store
- Shoppers Value Foods
- The Corner Store
Transportation
Driving to Old Rag Mountain
right on Route 231, follow 8 miles, turn right onto Route 601, and follow signs to the Old Rag parking area, which is approximately 3 miles. Check the forecast first for a safe drive.
Public Transportation Options
There are five ways to get from Virginia to Old Rag Mountain train, bus, car, plane, or taxi. You can train from Virginia Beach to Old Rag Mountain via Newtown Rd Station, Newtown Road Station, Harbor Park Station, Norfolk, Alexandria, and Culpeper Amtrak Station in around 8h 42m (Tripadvisor.com). Alternatively, you can take a bus from Virginia Beach to Old Rag Mountain via Richmond Bus Station, Charlottesville Amtrak, West Main Street at 8th Street NW, Charlottesville City Bus Hub, and Madison.
Transportation to and from Accommodations
The most affordable way from Virginia to Old Rag Mountain costs only 46, and the quickest way takes just 3½ hours. Contact shuttles services like Nina’s Shuttle Service.
Safety and Health
Safety Tips for Hiking Old Rag Mountain
- Avoid improper footwear like flip-flops
- Always carry a flashlight or first-aid kit
- Do not set off on a hike with plenty of water
- Know your limits and do not overestimate your physical abilities. The rock scrambling at Old Rag requires knees, elbows, hands, and feet.
Health and Medical Services
Although guests are rescued whenever they have a health problem when hiking, it takes time. Understand the basics of hiking safety before you set out on your adventure.
Conclusion
In conclusion, you can have an incredible stay close to Old Rag Mountain if you choose your accommodation well. For more experience with nature, consider any of the recommended campsites. Hotels are more comfortable, but rental homes are more affordable. Plan for a successful trip.
FAQs
What is Old Rag Mountain?
Old Rag Mountain is a 3,284 feet mountain near Sperryville in Madison County, Virginia.
How difficult is the hike up Old Rag Mountain?
The Old Rag hike is strenuous, with more switchback trails and rock scrambling.
What is the best time of year to visit Old Rag Mountain?
The best time to hike Old Rag in Shenandoah National Park is during the summer, late spring, and early fall months when trail conditions are free of snow.
Are there any restrictions on camping near Old Rag Mountain?
Legal overnight camping sites are limited in the Old Rag area as camping is prohibited above 2,800′.
What should I bring with me on the hike?
Although it’s always important to be aware of the specific requirements for the hike, you should bring the following items for the Old Rag Mountain hike: sturdy hiking shoes or boots, plenty of water, snacks and meals, warm and waterproof clothing layers, a map and compass or GPS, a first aid kit, and a headlamp or flashlight in case of unexpected delays. It’s also advisable to inform someone of your planned route and expected return time.
Are there any guided tours available for hiking Old Rag Mountain?
Yes, guided tours are available for hiking Old Rag Mountain, but they are only offered on weekends.
Can I bring my dog on the hike?
Yes, dogs are allowed on the Old Rag hike but are prohibited on some trails in the area. Pets on the Ridge, Saddle, Post Office Junction to Old Rag Shelter and Ridge Access trails are prohibited.
What is the closest airport to Old Rag Mountain?
The nearest airport to Old Rag Mountain is Charlottesville (CHO).
Do I need a permit to hike Old Rag Mountain?
Yes, a permit is required to hike Old Rag Mountain in Shenandoah National Park, Virginia, between March and November. It is known as a Day Ticket and is required to access the Ridge, Saddle and Ridge Access trails. The park service issued the permit and intended to regulate the number of hikers on the trail to protect natural resources and ensure visitor safety. You can obtain the permit online or at the park’s entrance station.
Are there any wheelchair-accessible accommodations near Old Rag Mountain?
Yes, there are wheelchair-accessible accommodations near Old Rag Mountain. These include Big Meadows Lodge and Skyland Resort, which offer accessible rooms and amenities. You should contact the accommodations directly to make sure they can accommodate your specific accessibility needs.
What are the check-in and check-out times for accommodations near Old Rag Mountain?
Check-in time for accommodations near Old Rag Mountain is usually 4:00 pm, and check-out time is usually 11:00 am. However, it’s advisable to coordinate exact check-in and check-out times with the lodging provider you plan to stay at, as they may vary by facility.
Is there cell phone service in the area around Old Rag Mountain?
Cell phone reception is available in the Old Rag Mountain area, but reception can be limited in certain locations. So it’s advisable to plan accordingly and not rely solely on cell phone communication.
What is the closest town to Old Rag Mountain?
Old Rag Mountain is located near Sperryville in Madison County, Virginia.
What are the best activities to do near Old Rag Mountain besides hiking?
In addition to hiking, there are several other activities to enjoy near Old Rag Mountain. You can go horseback riding, take a scenic drive along Skyline Drive, go fishing in one of the park’s streams or lakes, or relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery. Additionally, several ranger-led programs and educational opportunities are available in the park.
