Awesome hike. I wouldn't say it's "hard" but "moderate" is fair, mostly for the distance I guess. The trail is not flat or even, so don't expect that. There are easier shorter trails in the area if you need them. VERY close to Bear Chase which makes a great post hike drink and meal! read more

Great hike, go on a weekday morning. Otherwise there is way too many hikers on the trail.

Great hike, bring some good bug spray! Overall though nothing bad to say about ravens rock !

I haven't hiked since August 2019 (so over 2 years) but I do walk about 5-7 miles daily. But wow, this was a pretty great yet challenging hike! I am not the most fit, so some of that uphill definitely got to me since it was so steep for awhile. The direction towards the overpass and all the views was definitely more difficult (more uphill) than the way back. The views were pretty nice but I wasn't overly impressed. One nice perk is that we were able to cross the Virginia and West Virginia state line, so I can add WV to my list of states visited now! The trail there and back is about 6 miles long. It took my friends and me 1.5 hours each way, with about one hour to enjoy lunch at the top and take pictures. Please bring a nice pair of running shoes. The whole path is basically made out of rocks. I had a few incidences where I wasn't careful and almost slipped multiple times. I find that going downhill was the most difficult since there are loose rocks or slippery dirt paths. The path was pretty much a rollercoaster - some pretty intense uphill followed by some downhills - kind of shaped like "ww". Overall, would recommend this path for hiking! I don't really know what beginner or advance level hiking paths are, but I was definitely tired at the end. There's no shame in taking breaks in between! Note, there are no public bathrooms so I don't recommend chugging too much water but definitely bring some to take a few sips here and there. read more

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This was on the way home so stopped here on a Saturday afternoon to get some exercise in. Great place to hike with the hills, rocks, trees, and slopes. It's definitely not for beginners so bring your water bottles, proper footwear, and your stamina. Also get there early or late afternoon cause parking can be a you know what. There's some breweries/wineries/eats nearby to reward yourself after you trek here. And perfect to bring your pet to join you; if they are up to it! read more

Raven Rocks Hike - Don't get lost - Hiking Near Me - Bluemont, Virginia

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Awesome hike! A little challenging for the average hiker but all in all it was amazing for me and my buddies. The view was well worth the climb. Will definitely be coming back read more

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This hike was so much fun! About 6 mile round trip from the parking lot to the view and back (not a loop). Where do I begin? Parking lot: It is small however a larger parking lot is across the divided highway by the trail head to the Appalachian trail heading to the south. There is lots of parking there. There is NO bathroom or porta potty available to either. Food: Lots of food nearby (bar and brewery) however the trailhead is a bit far from the center of town. Getting there: It is very easy to miss the trailhead because while on the highway, you have to turn right onto route 679 and then look right to see the trail head. This trail is the Appalachian trail so it is very well marked with a 2inch by 4inch white mark on trees and rocks. This trail consists of what Appalachian trail hikers call "PUDs" or "pointless ups and downs." You will definitely feel your lungs breathing heavy on multiple occasions however there always is a leveled area afterwards where you can catch your breath. I would say that this trail is rated medium to hard. Not an easy walk in the park, it is where a lot of people come to train. There are two stream crossings. Come prepared and have fun! read more

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This is a great, challenging hike. Here's what to know: - Good shoes are a must. There are many steep rocky spots along the trail. I wouldn't go during rain or right after a rain unless you are experienced. - Bring water. I didn't notice a water fountain at the beginning of the hike. While it's well-shaded, the trail is constantly going up and down hill, so you might need more water than you think. - If you take a small dog or young child, you may need to carry them at certain points as their paws/ little feet might slip when crossing over some of the more rocky areas. - Know it's going to be a challenge. And there is absolutely nothing wrong with taking breaks and/or turning around if you/your dog/child/partner is exhausted. You'll still have a great time. - A walking stick would be useful given the steepness of some of the hills. - It's not a quick hike for most people and it can be very busy. - Since it's often busy, parking may be a problem. Apparently, they do tow in the "No parking" zone beside the small lot... so be mindful. Maybe carpool if you can! Have a great time! read more

Raven Rocks Hike - Hiking Near Me - Bluemont, Virginia

Came on a weekend morning, parking lot is pretty small so it was full but got parking. Saw a decent number of people but trail not crowded by any means. Terrain goes up and down, rocky and leafy, good hike, good views at the top although all the fall colors are gone and trees are mostly dead. Took an hour up and an hour down. read more

Great moderate level there and back hike. Lots of ups and downs as you traverse the valley. The views up top aren't fantastic but nevertheless a scenic view. It was roughly 5 miles. Not too crowded when we arrived but on our way back it was really crowded. read more

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I'm not a fan of out-and-back hikes, but I love the view at the top. * Amazing view at the overlook * Even amount of up and downhill so that the way to and back is pretty balanced * Trail running questionable...there are a lot of small rocks on the path * Great hike to do on sunny/hot day, because most of the trail is covered by trees. * Parking is pretty scarce though and you just park in a small area near the trailhead * Pay attention to the turn, or you might miss the trailhead! * One of the more secluded hikes, not too many people here. * No trail/entrance fee read more

Raven Rocks Hike - the view at the top - Hiking Near Me - Bluemont, Virginia

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Raven rocks has a beautiful overlook when you get to the top and is a very pretty trail. The hike is well marked, even having markings on rocks and trees when you have to cross over streams and trees..... however. I severely underestimated this hike and it was such a struggle. This hike had me begging to be done. There were steep inclines and we'd be going down to go back up again. Honestly my legs were giving out I thought I was dying. It also had rained the night before so it was very slippery and me and my friend were praying to be done . The pictures and view turned out great but for the 4 hours total of complete torture and back aches it wasn't all that worth it. Great for experienced hikers who love workout hikes but this hike was worse than leg day! In conclusion. I am never doing this again. Have fun! read more

What a great hike! Parking was a little dicey (we parked at the lot across RT 7) but otherwise easy to get to starting point. Hike itself was strenuous (inclines, rocks, etc) so be aware if you have knee/joint issues. Also, bring water! Views were worth the effort. Do not recommend for small children and pets. read more

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Steep and rocky! Great hike though. It's a super good workout. I went with my man and we went this past weekend, the traffic despite COVID was still pretty moderate. Not too crowded but we went at 8 am, the crowd started to increase around 9:30 am so if you want to avoid that, I'd recommend going early. The full round trip hike is only 6 miles but man, does it feel like more!! If you're scared of heights, don't try this one- or do, but Never! Look! Down! View once you reach the top is really nice and super cool that during the hike you pass the VA/WV state line. read more

Raven Rocks Hike - View at top - Hiking Near Me - Bluemont, Virginia

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I think this is a great hike if you're already in the area or have already done a lot of hiking in Virginia and want to see something new-- but otherwise there are definitely better hikes in Virginia. Pros: It was shady the entire way The ups and downs were really balanced so every time I thought I was getting really tired we happened to get to flat ground for awhile. (My 60 year old dad was less impressed-- it was a pretty difficult day for him.) The view at the top is good We passed a good number of people but generally were alone. It's free! Cons: Supposedly they tow people parked illegally at the entrance, but several people were definitely parked illegally and there didn't seem to be a problem. Not the BEST views from the top, and very few views along the way. Not much scenery generally, just a serene woodsy walk. read more

Raven Rocks Hike - Summit - Hiking Near Me - Bluemont, Virginia

If you can't get there before 8am, don't bother! Unless you like crowds. The parking situation gets insane towards the afternoon. Great 3 hour hike. Great to do alone or with a group. Wineries nearby when you finish! read more

The high ratings for this hike are surprising. It is definitely a work out because the trail is very rocky and requires constant going up and down. I kept wondering why it was necessary to go up and down so many times when the goal is to reach the top. My phone said I had gone up 90 flight of stairs when I was done! My main complaint with this hike is that it is both strenuous and boring at the same time. The scene is very monotonous (woods, rocks, and leaves) for 1.7 hours until you get to the top. If you just like being in the woods, that's fine. But don't expect to see any interesting views on the way. The view at the top is typical of what you would see in the region. Nice but nothing amazing. This would be a better hike if it was half as long. read more

Fuck this hike! Every goddamn step is agony! Steps shouldn't hurt that much. Ahhhhhhhhhh!!!!

Came out here from DC, about an hour drive but this hike was well worth it. After you park just off route 7, it only takes about 7 minutes on the trail until you're entirely immersed in the forrest; with no sounds of cars or views of the highway. The hike itself goes up and down three separate hills, the third of which has a knob with a great overlook, this is the destination for most day hikers. There is a lot of elevation change throughout, I think net you rise about 1500 feet. My party did it in about 3.5 hours with about 20 minutes spent at the knob, but we're certainly above average speed hikers. The trail itself is a bit rocky at points, I'd definitely recommend shoes with ankle support if you're less experienced, it's easy to roll your ankle here. I saw a fair amount of people with kids, and a lot of dogs, so the trail isn't killer challenging, but it's nothing to scoff at. It's also super cool that this trail is part of the Appalachian Trail, or AT, a 2100 mile trail that spans between Maine and Georgia. Being closer to DC than anything in Shenandoah, this is a great day trip hike. read more

This hike was such a winner! Not too far from DC, a nice length (5.5 out and back), a spectacular overlook, and pleasantly challenging. It never hurts when a trail is conveniently located near so many wineries either. There are some trails in the area that have seasonal overlooks, with great views through the bare fall/winter trees, but completely obstructed views in the summer. Once or twice, I've gone way past an overlook and turnaround point, because it looked like the rest of the trail. Well, you won't need to worry about that problem with this one! The turnaround point is impossible to miss because it's breathtaking and totally unobstructed. It's also the perfect place to stop and enjoy your lunch, Clif bar, or GORP. We met a lot of friendly hikers along the way, often with cute dogs in tow - another plus. Thanks to some of these folks, we heard that it's very important to park your car in the lot - not by the side of the road. It seems that the local police are quick to ticket or tow, so that may be something to bear in mind. This trail is well worth the trip! read more

Awesome hike - definitely a new favorite! Passed about 15 backpackers & 3 on-leash dogs at 11 AM on a Tuesday (just the right amount of crowded). About an hour away from DC/Arlington. 3 hours round trip w/ minimal & short breaks. 5.5 miles with a lot of rocky elevation gain made it a challenging but rewarding hike (my mom & I are avid runners and this was a good workout in our books). Dog friendly according to our 50 pound high-energy mutt. Well-marked trail - follow the white blaze. Great overlook at the top. Not many overlooks throughout but beautiful with the spring greenery. Not recommend for kids under 10 (or really for any kids). Very small parking lot so I imagine it fills up quickly on the weekends/nice days. Near some great wineries if you want to make a day out of it! Stopped at a super cute market for sandwiches on the way home but can't remember the name. About 5 minutes East on Route 7. Great selection of beer, wine, pies, desserts & sandwiches. read more

Another day, another great hike. This one though was very different. Like Arin says, it does go up and down bringing balance to the extremely long hike. Somehow, I failed to note it was an 11 mile round trip hike! We started out good and strong. very shady. Lots of rocks. Be careful. Watch where you step. Crossed two creeks. I think over three mountains! It's not just one mountain...you clearly cross creeks and start back up another mountain. 10 min to the top and BAM!!!! A torential rain fell upon us like none other! The whole forest was dark as night! Seriously. It was amazing!!!!!!!! It did cool off our sweaty bodies and gave us a second wind though. The rain was monsterous. As the rain was stopping we stepped out onto the cliff's edge! Fog from the rain and hot Earth coming out of the tree lines. You could track the storm across WV from the cliffs. Again, Amazing!!! Shot some pic....ate some cheetos and cashews, and started back to the start line. Obviously, after the rains it was a sloppy mess! The water also weighted down our apparal and hiking sacks. A lot different from coming in. Wet and soggy we trudged on...and on....and on....seriously another 10 min to the finish line where we parked, that rain started again. Pelting us! Dark again was the forest..We jumped in the car and drove off. So- Wildlife? We saw a bumblebee, that stung me 3 times. (WTH), a black snake I almost stepped on! A Millipede, a Centepede, a fluffy catapillar, a big black beetle... We may have made it there and back, but on this day ladies and gentlemen, Water Won! read more

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Nice hike that was closer to me than Shenandoah so I decided to use this trail to break in my new trekking poles. I used to be one of those elitists who raised their nose at people who used trekking poles. Uh, yeah, not anymore. There were countless times when they kept me from falling on this extremely rocky trail. Was quite busy as expected, but fortunately I passed everyone (~ 17 hikers) on my way back down from the top, which I was lucky enough to have all to myself for 20 minutes. Just get here really early (I started 6:30am). read more

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We hiked around noon on a Saturday and it was moderately crowded. Beware that it is difficult to find parking and the overflow lot is across a busy four lane highway. Not a single person we passed was wearing a mask which made us feel uncomfortable. The hike was about 4 miles and took us about 1.5 hours and includes lots of rocky and scrambly areas. The view at the end was stunning! read more

Awesome hike .... Yesterday weather was a mixture of sun and downpours or rain . Trail had a lot of ups and downs but we kept up a good pace and made to the overlook in about 2 1/2 hrs . It was beautiful. I would definitely recommend this trail read more

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5 stars due to proximity to our house! We live in Purcellville and I'm pretty sure this is the closest hiking trail to us. We took our toddler with us who does awesome on trails but didn't realize this was a more rocky/ steep climb than most trails in the area so just be ready for that. read more

Raven Rocks Hike - Hiking Near Me - Bluemont, Virginia

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Beautiful hiking scenery trails are very well-maintained if you're not a hiker this is the beginner of hiking for you you can see all of Winchester valley read more

Came here from Northern Virginia and it was amazing. The parking was the trickiest part of the hike, because it is very limited especially on a nice day. Other than that there are beautiful overlooks and miles of forest (about 5.5). Once you get to the top you experience the most incredible view stretching miles into the distance. read more

Raven Rocks Hike - View from the top - Hiking Near Me - Bluemont, Virginia

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Really great trail!! About a 5k into Raven Rock, and then another 5k back to the car. Cross many creeks and great look out places.

A nice challenging hike with lots of rock scrambling. My low-ish rating comes from the parking situation - the trailhead has a very small parking lot and a police officer wouldn't let us park along the side of the quiet road. Instead, hikers are directed to park in the overflow lot on the other side of Route 7, forcing pedestrians to cross 4 lanes of 70+ MPH traffic to get back to the trailhead. There are no signs to warn drivers that pedestrians are crossing there, and the visibility is poor. This is a very dangerous situation for pedestrians and even more annoying that the police are forcing people to cross there. read more

A fun, relatively short (5 miles or so) out-and-back trail. (Part of the Appalachian Trail.) The views through the trees and especially at the 'end' (of this particular trail) are excellent. It's mostly narrow (although generally two-person abreast), well-marked trails, over rocky terrain. read more

5 stars mainly because this particular hike has some great walls to climb on. Plus we have a secret little area somewhat away from the masses that gather on the outlook post AND we still have the views. The hike is a perfect combination of switchbacks - not to difficult but difficult enough to get your heart rate up and make you go "why did I eat that (whole) pizza last night!" haha. Great views for being such a short drive from the metro area. Come prepared people. Bring plenty of water, layer up and wear proper footwear. This trail is extremely rocky with some parts being sandy with loose gravel. The views are beautiful and a great place to lounge for lunch or in a hammock! Which is what I did most of the afternoon - well deserved rest if I don't say so myself. Looks like a great place for a one nighter camping trip too. Maybe too heavy with foot traffic but I'm sure if you search you can find a quiet spot tucked away from the main trail. Beautiful and would definitely recommend this one. read more

Raven Rocks Hike - Water, check. Camera, check. Rapewhistle, check. Beautiful view, double check. - Hiking Near Me - Bluemont, Virginia

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Fun, but strenuous! Trail was well-marked, and terrain was varying (leafy; rocky; stream beds). Nice view from the top. My sister's miniature pinscher made it, so you can too! read more

Raven Rocks Hike - My pup enjoyed crossing the streams. - Hiking Near Me - Bluemont, Virginia

This is a good either starter hike if you're just getting into more challenging terrain and hills or if you're a more experienced hiker, it could be almost a quick trail run. Nice mix of terrain, a break away from civilization, and I personally enjoyed the ups and downs. Did not find the hike to be challenging with it being such a short distance. This is coming from someone who thinks 20 miles is a nice day hike though. I did not find it overly rocky either and did it in low tops and forgot to bring socks. All in all, a nice day hike on the AT and looks like it would make for a great introductory backpacking destination. The view at the top is quite nice for a lunch or just a stop and sit and spell, ponder existence. There are definitely more scenic and more challenging hikes in the area but if you are just looking for a good nature fix, it'll do the trick. A quick note for summertime hikers, the hike will make you sweat, even if you are in good shape and the overlook doesn't have much shade. Do not skimp on bringing water. The parking area off 679 is SMALL. We were in the overflow off 7. Yeah, you better be able to play Frogger when crossing the highway and the directions how to get there from that lot aren't entirely clear. We started heading up to Bears Den before we realized we were going the wrong way. read more

This hike was a bit of a workout that I recommend checking out! About a 6 mile hike in total that took about 3 1/2 hours-including the stop at the top. The trail is pretty rocky with many ups and downs and is well marked. There is a beautiful view at the top that I would love to see when the leaves change color. We passed quite a few other groups/hikers on the trail, but nothing too crazy-just enough to make it feel like we weren't isolated in the woods. read more

Hike wasn't too difficult, parking was though. Nice for a shady cool day. However, the view at the top was not spectacular. Overall, nice trail. read more