Mary’s Rock, Virginia
Total Distance: 3.7 miles
Elevation Gain: 1,210 feet
Trail Type: Out-and-back
Difficulty: Moderate
The Hike: Looking for sweeping views and rocky summits during your visit to Shenandoah National Park? If so, put Mary’s Rock on the top of your list.
This classic hike takes guests up a winding mountain trail and leads them to a rock outcropping with stunning views of Thornton Gap and the valley below. Hiker’s will get the chance to climb up massive boulders and sit high above the neighboring mountains once at the summit. This is also ranked among the best places in the park for sunset, so plan to hike this trail later in the day if purple mountains and orange clouds are your thing.
The Details: Starting at the Panorama parking area (mile 31.6 of Skyline Drive), begin your hike by following a short connector trail towards the Appalachian Trail. Once reaching the AT, hike southbound. Follow signs up the mountain and towards Mary’s Rock. Once finished at the top, retrace your steps back to your car.
Looking for a longer or shorter hike to Mary’s Rock? Starting at the Panorama parking area is the most popular route, however you can also start your hike at Meadow Springs (2.7 miles round trip), Jewell Hollow Overlook (6 miles round trip), or Buck Hollow (9 miles round trip).
Gear: For this hike, we recommend bringing along either the Winter or Summer Day Hike Essentials, depending on the season. Micro-spikes are strongly advised in the winter.
*The information in this article is for planning purposes only. Actual trail conditions may vary depending on environmental factors. It is always advised to get the latest trail information from a park office or ranger before you begin your hike.