Virginia is home to 544 miles of the Appalachian Trail

That's more miles than any other state! Whether hiking through a small section of untamed wilderness or conquering the entire Appalachian Trail, create your own perspective and discover the endless beauty that is Virginia.

101 miles of the A.T. lie in the beautiful Shenandoah National Park and parallel 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.

Learn more about Virginia's sections of the A.T. below and if you're looking for more side trails or day hike, check out hiking in Virginia.

Shenandoah National Park and the A.T.

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!

Key Points:

Length: 101 miles
Best Time to Hike: Spring; September-October
Key Sites: Skyland, Big Meadows

Virginia's Northern Portion of the A.T.

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!

Key Points:

Length: 54 miles
Best Time to Hike: Spring; September-Early November
Key Sites: Sky Meadows State Park, G. Richard Thompson Wildlife Management Area, Bears Den Trail Center

Virginia's Central Portion of the A.T.

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.

Key Points:

Length: 225 miles
Best Time to Hike: Spring; September-October
Key Sites: George Washington & Jefferson National Forest, Peaks of Otter, Blue Ridge Parkway

Virginia's Southern Portion of the A.T.

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.

Key Points:

Length: 166 miles
Best Time to Hike: May-October
Key Sites: Big Walker Lookout, Mount Rogers National Recreation Area, Mount Rogers Scenic Byway Grayson Highlands State Park, Damascus

What does the Appalachian Trail in Virginia mean to you?

We asked dozens of AT hikers about their experience on the trail in Virginia, and they didn't hold back. With so much to say about the spectacular beauty and unforgettable experiences they found, it's hard to pick one. Watch the video for their favorites (hint: Grayson Highlands is pretty awesome).