If you've ever wanted to hike the A.T., why not start in Virginia?

Virginia is home to 544 miles of the Appalachian Trial, more miles than any other state! And 101 of those miles lie in beautiful Shenandoah National Park and parallel to Skyline Drive.

The A.T. also parallels the famous Blue Ridge Parkway, goes through Mount Rogers National Recreation Area in George Washington & Jefferson National Forests, and ends in Damascus, known as Trail Town USA, where the trail goes right down its main thoroughfare.

Virginia's Northern End of the Appalachian Trail

Begin your hike at the border of Virginia/West Virginia in Clarke County. Many backpackers consider this portion of the A.T. perfect for spring break!

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Shenandoah National Park of the Appalachian Trail

The Trail is well-graded, well-maintained and gentle grades for less-experienced hikers. The park facilities close in early November through March, and snow shuts down Skyline Drive to motorists. Although cross-country skiers and snowshoers are welcome!

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Virginia's Central Portion of the Appalachian Trail - Blue Ridge Parkway to Roanoke

The Trail becomes more difficult the further south you travel, with many 2,000- to 3,000-foot climbs, crossing ridges and valleys. to Roanoke.

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Virginia's Southern End of the Appalachian Trail - Roanoke to Pearisburg

The A.T. travels more westerly through the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests from Roanoke County to Pearisburg in Giles County. According to the Appalachian Trail Conservancy, this portion of the A.T. is the most remote and less traveled.

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