Best Hikes in Jefferson National Forest, VA

Default image for McAfee Knob Hike, a 7.9-mile trail in Salem, VA (US)

7.9 mi
12.7 km

Moderate Loop

McAfee Knob Hike

4.48

Salem, Virginia

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Default image for Devil's Marbleyard Hike, a 11.1-mile trail in Natural Bridge Station, VA (US)

11.1 mi
17.9 km

Hard Loop

Devil's Marbleyard Hike

3.95

Natural Bridge Station, Virginia

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Default image for Dragon's Tooth Hike, a 4.7-mile trail in Catawba, VA (US)

4.7 mi
7.6 km

Hard Loop

Dragon's Tooth Hike

4.39

Catawba, Virginia

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Default image for Devil's Bathtub Hike, a 3.2-mile trail in Norton, VA (US)

3.2 mi
5.1 km

Easy Out-and-Back

Devil's Bathtub Hike

4.33

Norton, Virginia

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Default image for Apple Orchard Falls Hike, a 5.8-mile trail in Munford, VA (US)

5.8 mi
9.3 km

Moderate Loop

Apple Orchard Falls Hike

3.75

Munford, Virginia

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Default image for The Cascades and Barney's Wall Hike, a 7.7-mile trail in Ripplemead, VA (US)

7.7 mi
12.4 km

Moderate Out-and-Back

The Cascades and Barney's Wall Hike

4.68

Ripplemead, Virginia

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Default image for Mt. Rogers and Wilburn Ridge Hike, a 21.4-mile trail in Troutdale, VA (US)

21.4 mi
34.4 km

Strenuous Loop

Mt. Rogers and Wilburn Ridge Hike

4.33

Troutdale, Virginia

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Default image for Great Channels Hike, a 5.9-mile trail in Saltville, VA (US)

5.9 mi
9.5 km

Moderate Out-and-Back

Great Channels Hike

4.5

Saltville, Virginia

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Default image for Wilbur Ridge and Pine Mountain, a 13.0-mile trail in Mouth of Wilson, VA (US)

13 mi
20.9 km

Hard Loop

Wilbur Ridge and Pine Mountain

4.86

Mouth of Wilson, Virginia

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Default image for Cove Mountain Hike, a 7.1-mile trail in Buchanan, VA (US)

7.1 mi
11.4 km

Moderate Loop

Cove Mountain Hike

3.75

Buchanan, Virginia

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Default image for Mountain Lake Wilderness Hike, a 8.8-mile trail in Newport, VA (US)

8.8 mi
14.2 km

Hard Loop

Mountain Lake Wilderness Hike

0.0

Newport, Virginia

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Default image for Carvin Cove and Hay Rock Hike, a 7.7-mile trail in Daleville, VA (US)

7.7 mi
12.4 km

Moderate Out-and-Back

Carvin Cove and Hay Rock Hike

4.07

Daleville, Virginia

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Key Takeaways

Jefferson National Forest offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, fishing, and scenic drives, attracting visitors seeking recreation and nature experiences.

Located near Roanoke, VA, the forest provides easy access to both urban amenities and vast natural landscapes, making it a convenient destination for a variety of travelers.

Visitors can explore diverse ecosystems, from lush forests and cascading waterfalls to mountain peaks and scenic overlooks, offering opportunities for exploration and photography.

About Jefferson National Forest

Explore the breathtaking beauty of Jefferson National Forest in Roanoke, Virginia, offering a diverse range of hiking experiences for all skill levels. From challenging treks along the famed Appalachian Trail to the summit of Mount Rogers, Virginia's highest point, to shorter, scenic loops, you'll discover stunning vistas, cascading waterfalls, and peaceful woodlands. Whether you're a seasoned backpacker seeking solitude or a family looking for a memorable day hike, Jefferson National Forest provides an unforgettable outdoor adventure.

Plan your hike with care, considering trail conditions and elevation changes. For a shorter excursion, the Deep Gap Spring Trail provides access to a crucial water source for longer trips, while the Devil's Bathtub offers a unique geological experience. For experienced hikers, the Hanging Rock Hike offers the same views as McAfee Knob with fewer crowds. Longer treks like the Balcony Falls loop offer remote beauty, while those setting their sights on Mount Rogers should be aware that the summit itself lacks views, making the journey and surrounding highlands the true reward. Always practice Leave No Trace principles and be prepared for varying weather conditions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.