Best Hikes in George Washington National Forest, VA

Default image for Humpback Rocks Hike, a 4.1-mile trail in Afton, VA (US)

4.1 mi
6.6 km

Hard Loop

Humpback Rocks Hike

3.91

Afton, Virginia

Created By:

HikingUpward

Default image for Signal Knob Hike, a 10.0-mile trail in Fort Valley, VA (US)

10 mi
16.1 km

Hard Loop

Signal Knob Hike

3.82

Fort Valley, Virginia

Created By:

HikingUpward

Default image for Three Ridges Hike, a 13.2-mile trail in White Rock, VA (US)

13.2 mi
21.2 km

Strenuous Loop

Three Ridges Hike

4.3

White Rock, Virginia

Created By:

HikingUpward

Default image for Kennedy Peak Hike, a 6.8-mile trail in Luray, VA (US)

6.8 mi
10.9 km

Moderate Out-and-Back

Kennedy Peak Hike

3.8

Luray, Virginia

Created By:

HikingUpward

Default image for Crabtree Falls & Spy Rock Hike, a 13.1-mile trail in Tyro, VA (US)

13.1 mi
21.1 km

Hard Out-and-Back

Crabtree Falls & Spy Rock Hike

4.18

Tyro, Virginia

Created By:

HikingUpward

Default image for Strickler Knob Hike, a 5.4-mile trail in New Market, VA (US)

5.4 mi
8.7 km

Hard Out-and-Back

Strickler Knob Hike

4.32

New Market, Virginia

Created By:

HikingUpward

Default image for Halfmoon Mountain Loop, a 8.9-mile trail in Wardensville, WV (US)

8.9 mi
14.3 km

Hard Loop

Halfmoon Mountain Loop

5.0

Wardensville, West Virginia

Created By:

David Miller (Admin)

Default image for High Knob Tower Hike, a 2.6-mile trail in Brandywine, WV (US)

2.6 mi
4.2 km

Easy Out-and-Back

High Knob Tower Hike

5.0

Brandywine, West Virginia

Created By:

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Default image for The Priest Hike, a 8.4-mile trail in Tyro, VA (US)

8.4 mi
13.5 km

Strenuous Out-and-Back

The Priest Hike

3.93

Tyro, Virginia

Created By:

HikingUpward

Default image for Eagle Rock Hike, a 7.1-mile trail in Wardensville, WV (US)

7.1 mi
11.4 km

Moderate Out-and-Back

Eagle Rock Hike

3.71

Wardensville, West Virginia

Created By:

HikingUpward

Default image for Duncan Knob Hike, a 3.5-mile trail in Mount Jackson, VA (US)

3.5 mi
5.6 km

Moderate Out-and-Back

Duncan Knob Hike

3.84

Mount Jackson, Virginia

Created By:

HikingUpward

Default image for Tibbet Knob Hike, a 3.2-mile trail in Edinburg, VA (US)

3.2 mi
5.1 km

Hard Out-and-Back

Tibbet Knob Hike

4.17

Edinburg, Virginia

Created By:

HikingUpward

Key Takeaways

George Washington National Forest offers a vast, accessible natural escape in Ashby, Virginia, ideal for hiking, camping, and exploring diverse landscapes.

Visitors can enjoy a range of outdoor activities such as scenic drives along Skyline Drive, exploring historical sites, and participating in seasonal hunting and fishing opportunities.

Planning is essential, considering varying terrain, potential permits needed for certain activities, and the importance of Leave No Trace principles to preserve the forest's beauty.

About George Washington National Forest

Explore the diverse hiking trails of George Washington National Forest near Ashby, VA, offering experiences for all skill levels. From the easy and scenic 0.6-mile Massanutten Storybook Trail with its panoramic views of the Shenandoah Valley, Shenandoah National Park, and nearby mountains, to challenging multi-day backpacking loops, adventure awaits. Be sure to check trail conditions and pack accordingly for creek crossings, steep ascents, and potential hazards.

Discover iconic hikes within George Washington National Forest, including the strenuous Halfmoon Mountain Loop in West Virginia and the Anthill and Slate Lick Hike near Singers Glen, VA. Whether you're seeking breathtaking vistas from Halfmoon Lookout or a challenging climb on the Anthill Trail, these routes showcase the rugged beauty of the region. Remember to check for trail closures, bring plenty of water, and be aware of potential wildlife encounters during your adventure.