Circuit Hikes to Check Out this Summer

There's no shortage of hiking trails throughout Virginia. For those who are looking for a trail that offers ever-changing scenery and terrain, there are plenty of circuit hikes that'll take you on a looping trail of scenic views and natural wonders.

Here are our recommendations for circuit hikes around the Commonwealth. We've included hikes of varying degrees of difficulty. Remember to hike prepared and leave no trace while out in Virginia's nature. 

Old Rag Mountain

Old Rag Mountain is one of the most popular hikes in the Shenandoah National Park. The challenging hike is Recommended for experienced hikers only. A day on the Old Rag is one of Shenandoah’s premier experiences. The circuit is approximately nine miles, with significant elevation changes and rock scrambles. Hikers should allot about 7-8 hours to complete the loop.

*From March 1 – November 30, visitors to Old Rag Mountain, including hikers on the Saddle, Ridge, and Ridge Access trails, will need to obtain an Old Rag day-use ticket in advance, in addition to a Park entrance pass. Find out more information on the National Park Service Old Rag day-use ticket FAQ page.*

Strickler Knob

Strickler Knob rewards scrappy hikers with challenging rock scrambling and stunning 360-degree views of New Market Gap and the Luray Valley. The 5.5-mile moderate loop into George Washington National Forest is not maintained and not suitable for dogs or young children. 

South River Falls

The 3.3-mile circuit of South River Falls will take you to the third-highest waterfall in Shenandoah National Park. The total climb is about 1,830 feet and hikers should allow 7.5 hours to complete the loop. The hike also includes views such as settler ruins, a cemetery and more.

Mason Neck Wildlife Refuge Loop & Beach Walk

This family and pet-friendly refuge offers an easy 2.3-mile trail, covering the length and flatness of the shore along Belmont Bay. Spotting bald eagles and other wildlife make for a great hike! Pack a lunch and take a break at one of the trail’s shelters or snack on the beach. Plan for 1-3 hours for the hike along the Mason Neck National Wildlife Refuge and experience the serene undisturbed land of the refuge.

Stratford Hall

The nature trails at Stratford Hall are as varied as they are scenic, providing leisurely strolls for the amateur hiker and challenging treks for veterans. Hikers have six trails to choose from, including the Spring House Trail loop. The short and easy hike, approximately a quarter-mile, passes through a natural spring and is home to many species of wildlife, including the American Bald Eagle and the pileated woodpecker. 

Sky Meadows State Park

Sky Meadows State Park offers more than 17 miles of hiking trails that are accessible for the novice to expert hiker. The park’s long circuit trail is a moderate hike, about 8.5 miles long. Much of the loop meanders across or skirts the edges of rolling meadows and offers up to four vistas along the way. This circuit is a great hike for the entire family.

Stony Man Trail

The Stony Man Mountain Trail is one of the most scenic circuits in Shenandoah National Park. Although Stony Man is the second highest peak in the park, the grades are not difficult. The trail offers outstanding panoramas of neighboring mountains.

Limberlost Trail

Limberlost Trail, also located within Shenandoah National Park, is often enjoyed by people with mobility challenges. This circuit hike of 1.3 miles is for people of all ages and has a 5-foot-wide crushed greenstone walkway on a gentle grade with frequent benches, a boardwalk, and a bridge. The trail passes through forest and a stand of mountain laurel, which is impressive year-round but stunningly beautiful when it blooms in June.

Laurel Run Trail

In the heart of Goshen Pass, the Laurel Run Trail makes for a good hike along a beautiful small native trout stream. The trail boasts waterfalls, seasonal rhododendron, and mountain laurel displays. The beautiful scenery makes this 3-mile round trip hike most enjoyable. The moderate skill-level trail is great for the beginner hiker who is looking to get a more challenging experience out of their journey.

First Landing State Park

Take a step back in time at First Landing State Park. More than 19 miles of trails wind through the park, where English settlers established the first elective government in 1607. The South Loop trail allows hikers to explore the rich history of the area, including lagoons, large cypress trees, and rare plants.

Lewis Falls

Located within the Shenandoah National Park, Lewis Falls Trail is a 3.3-mile circuit hike from the Big Meadows amphitheater to the observation point, or two miles round trip from Skyline Drive. It boasts an 81' waterfall and picturesque streams. The hike is moderate, with steep rocky areas and different variations of terrain throughout.

Locher Tract

Locher Tract is an easy, 1-mile loop along the James River, around what used to be the site of an old family farm. The U.S. Forest Service now maintains the area for wildlife watching. While you’re trekking the loop, look for beaver, deer, herons, quail, and turkey. The trail loops past an active beaver swamp, piney woods, and grassy openings.

Humpback Rocks

Humpback Rocks, located along the Blue Ridge Parkway, features three trails that make great circuit hikes. The complete circuit includes both blue-blazed spur trails and the rerouted Appalachian Trail, which totals just under six miles. Enjoy some truly amazing panoramic views of the valley on top of the slanted rock.

Rock Castle Gorge National Recreation Trail

This trail starts easy at the entrance to the Rocky Knob campground on the Blue Ridge Parkway, then descends over three miles into the backcountry camping area at the bottom of the gorge. The strenuous and rugged trail features nearly 200 varieties of wildflowers in spring and summer months. You'll see tunnels of rhododendron and other thick mountain foliage, a splashing stream, and high open meadows. The entire loop is 10.8 miles and the elevations range from 1,700 to 3,572 feet. A few small historic structures are visible along the trail, including a Civilian Conservation Corps camp.

Roaring Run Loop Trail

Two trails lead to the falls creating a-1.5 mile loop trail at Roaring Run. Most visitors use the Streamside Trail on their way up to the falls and return via the Woodland Trail. Both trails are easy with relatively little elevation gain. On the Streamside Trail, hikers are treated to rustic stone bridges, sheer rock faces, and the sound of tumbling water as they walk alongside Roaring Run Creek. The trail junctures with the Woodland Trail just shy of Roaring Run Falls. A short spur trail will take you to the falls. 

Grayson Highlands State Park

Grayson Highlands offers five loop trails throughout the park, ranging from 0.3-1.8 miles in distance. These trails lead to panoramic vistas, scenic waterfalls, and a 200-year-old pioneer cabin. The park also offers access to the Appalachian Trail and the surrounding Jefferson National Forest.

Lake Keokee Loop

The Lake Keokee Loop Trail circles Lake Keokee, which is a popular fishing lake near Big Stone Gap. The 3.7-mile moderate loop features both land and water wildlife. You may see anglers, hunters, and various critters while on your hike. 

New to hiking in Virginia? Read up on our hiking tips for beginners.