​TRAIL GOAL PROGRAM (TGP) is to help get your mind, body and spirit trained and ready to conquer your hiking bucket list goals. The TGP identifies a series of trails with which to train and prepare, these are recommendations only.

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THE GOAL: OLD RAG MOUNTAIN

​The iconic 8.9 mile juggernaut bucket list hike. treats the hiker to a 1,760 ft. ascent, followed by a multi mile rock scramble of rock walls, crevices and boulder hopping by way of four false summits. The reward is a 360 degree view at an elevation of 3,280 ft. of the shenandoah area. Old Rag Mountain has long been the crown jewel of Shenandoah National Park, its popularity has incurred a day pass reservation, its reputation has become synonymous with injuries and medical rescues. Yet, Old Rag sits a top many bucket lists, and here we are to help answer how do you prepare for this icon.

about old rag

BEST FOR :
stamina , distance hiking, single-track 

Why this trail: The trail system is ala carte, allowing the hiker to choose distance and difficulty. trails are well marked and offers everything from meandering grassy field paths , to singletrack forested trails to lung burning ascents. sky meadows is a fantastic trail system to build stamina, break in hiking shoes and work through second and third winds.
Distance:  up to 22 Miles
Trail Rating: Difficult

Things to Know: There is an entrance fee to the State Park. The park is equipped with restroom and refreshment facilities,. This is a four season trail with recommendations for trail running, or light hiking. 

Delaplane, Virginia

Best for :
balance, core strength, rock scramble 

Why this trail: The trail has circuit a and circuit B. both circuits rock scrambles are a fantastic prelude to old rag. the rock scramble carries over large boulders, slithers through crevices and a large rock wall. be ready to use your balancing and footwork skills as you traverse this rocky playground. the trail system is perfect to train and develop your core and balance all the while improving focus and concentration.
 
Distance:  up to 7.8 Miles
Trail Rating : Difficult

Things to Know: This trail is popular, best to go on a weekday or early morning. The trail is susceptible to wet conditions and flooding as it parallels the Potomac River. The trails views of the river are outstanding! 

Great Falls,Maryland

Best For : stamina & footwork

Why this trail:: it's time to build that ever so important stamina on this ridge rambling single-track that scoots the border of va and wv . eagle rock's roller coaster style treats your feet to roots, loose rock, debris matter as it picks up speed,. the second half of eagle rock tests your stamina with a late ascent that's ready to beat up your legs. the trails climbs through mountain laurel,  small boulders on way to your summit. the summit is a rock ledge with views of the valley below.
 
Distance:  7.0 MILES
Trail Rating: strenuous

Things to know: This trail is also popular for mountain bikers and wild turkeys. be sure to bring along two water bottles, your best trail runners or the much preferred light hiking shoes. 

Dry Gap, West Virginia

BEST FOR :
stamina , breathing, pace and descent footwork

Why this trail: this misleading trail lulls you with its beautiful waterfalls sounds and old forest canopy. however bucks hollow is your final step to Old Rag, for this trail is going to have your hammies in tears, lungs burning and beat you up (in a good way). the bucks hollow trail is a favorite to continue building stamina, pattern your breathing during ascents and pacing your hikes. the trail has a fantastic descent alongside waterfalls and is great practice for your footwork, shock absorption and balance when your legs are dog tired.
 
Distance:  6.2 Miles
Trail Rating: Very Strenuous

Things to know: This trail is popular, remember at the trail split turn left to start your ascent work. the trail tops off at skyline drive and then descends rapidly with several wet spots where solid footing and balance are needed. ​

Sperryville, Virginia