LOCATION: Skyline drive (mm 94.0)
TRAIL DISTANCE: 3.4 miles
TRAIL HEAD/ DIRECTIONS: Riprap Parking
TRAIL TYPE: Loop
TRAIL GRADE:  MODERATE (2)
TRAIL PARKING: 10 Spots or Less
KEY WORDS: ages 10+ , summit views
TRAIL INFO
What’s to like about the trail:  Family hike with a view!
Why go for a hike on this trail:  Big vista views of the Shenandoah Valley , small rock outcrops and short distance hike!
Best time to go for a hike on this trail:  spring, fall

Summary:   
Optimal entrance to this hike is the swift run gap entrance of shenandoah national park off route 33.
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Your adventure begins off skyline drive , mile marker (mm) 90 at the Riprap parking lot. From the lot, hang a right and hop on the Appalachian trail (white marker) head north until the intersection with the Riprap trail. The at trail has small elevation gain until the intersection with the Riprap trail. make a left and join the Riprap trail.. This trail is actually a 10 mile loop and but for your purposes today, it will be your route to Chimney Rock. The Riprap trail is well marked and used enough that its well managed too. Your adventure continues on the Riprap and is navigationally easy but the terrain becomes more about roots, small rocks and the ups and downs of the trail topography. A good pair of trail shoes are your best friend here especially during wetter periods in the spring and summer months. As you make your way, the forest happily encroaches the trail making it narrow for one hiker, but rest assure your first rock outcrop is here! the Calvary rocks are a small outcrop with westerly views, the outcrop is a great pitstop for a bit of water. Continue from here to chimney rock (0.3 miles) for a larger outcrop, bigger views and a great place to sit about and enjoy the surroundings.  To return to your car, retrace your steps.
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HIKE ON!
GEAR RECOMMENDATIONS

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  • SHENANDOAH NATIONAL PARK PARK FEE : $30.00​
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