Along with sister hike Duncan Knob Hollow, Duncan Knob climbs Catback Mountain in the Massanutten Range offering solitude, a rock scramble, and
great views of the Massanutten Range and Shenandoah Valley.
Choose from this route along 3.6 miles out-and-back to the
Duncan Knob summit from Gap Creek, or make the longer 8.5 mile circuit
hike from Scothorn Gap. There are multiple good camp sites on both hikes, including a site at the summit with gorgeous sunset views to the southwest.
Gap Creek - Out/Back - 3.5 Miles
- Mile 0.0 - From the parking area along Crisman Hollow Rd follow the side track and blue blazed Gap Creek Trail for 100 yards to the first campsite on the left. At this point the Gap Creek Trail turns left and crosses a wooden footbridge over Gap Creek. The trail is initially rocky as it climbs Catback Mountain. Make six switchbacks in the first 1.2 miles then arrive at the intersection of the yellow blazed Scothorn Gap Trail that comes in from the right.
- Mile 1.2 - Continue climbing on the blue blazed Gap Creek trail for another 0.3 miles to Peach Orchard Gap where there is a large campsite. The white blazed Duncan Knob Overlook Trail is on the left in the saddle.
- Mile 1.5 - Turn left onto the white blazed trail then in 0.1 miles pass a campsite on the right. After the campsite the trail becomes more rocky and harder to follow. Look for rock cairns to guide you. As the trail enters the rock slide below Duncan Knob stay to the left and around the largest bolder in the field before heading uphill to the ridge. At the ridge there is a small campsite suitable for a single tent. Follow the trail right to the overlook.
- Mile 1.8 - From the overlook there are expansive views to the south of the Shenandoah Valley and west towards New Market Gap. Return back to the intersection with the Gap Creek Trail at Peach Orchard Gap.
- Mile 2.1 - Turn right downhill on the blue blazed Gap Creek Trail retracing your route back to the parking area on Crisman Hollow Rd.
- Mile 3.5 - Arrive back at the parking are on Crisman Hollow Rd.
