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The Peak, Shenandoah National Park, VA


Highlights:

strenuous, bushwacking, great view
Near:Luray, VA
Scenery:
Distance:9.25 miles round trip
Elevation Gain:2800 ft
Hike Time:6.5 hours
Difficulty:Strenuous
Trail Condition:Bush wacking
HikeType:Out and Back


Summary:  The Mt. Marshall trial is well maintained, easy to follow route. There are a couple of small creek crossings along the way that offer a great place to filter some H2O if needed. Continue straight once you reach the Bluff Trailhead, approx. mile 3. A short while later you'll reach the Jordan run trail head. Approx. 50 yds beyond, with no trail marker, begins the ascent of The Peak. Remember to stop and look around during the climb. The trail offers spectacular views back to North and South Marshall, as well as the valley. Good route finding skills are a must. This trail is no longer maintained. You may still see some blazes, but don't count on them. Some good ol' bushwacking is necessary to get you to the top. The underbrush clears out as you near the peak, and the views continue to get better. You may get a sense of what the first people to come here experianced, and what kept them here... The Peak is well worth the climb.
Trailhead: Go to parking area on Skyline Drive just past MP 12, about 50 yds north of Jenkins Gap Overlook. Hike south down Skyline Drive a short way to the Mt. Marshall trailhead. (Lat:38.76 Lon:-78.17)
Trail Guides for The Peak, Shenandoah National Park, VA:
Map 9
by Potomac Appalachain Trail Club (PATC)

Best Seasons: Year-Round
User Groups: Hikers, Dogs,
Ranger Contact: US Forest Service 1-540-999-3500
Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by Joe Cross, who has posted  56 other hikes on this site
Trail Reviews  Submit your own review
Reviewed by JBG on 8/16/2006
The Shenandoah National Park contact is the PARK service. Not the Forest Service. Also, please be aware that there is a fee to enter the park. :o)

Reviewed by Gabriel Elias on 4/11/2006
I did not make it all the way-- too cold! However, this trail in particular is a beauty. Great combo for seasoned hikers. Note that you can turn back (wimp out like we did) at the Shenandoah trails so do not hesitate getting out of the car. This may sound obvious but after going uphill... well, downhill is a breeze. Check out the radio stations also. It adds to the mood cruising up and down the Skyline Drive. Luray is a trip... Nice town. Go to the Chinese restaurant (not on the trail but maybe it should be)!

Reviewed by Mike on 4/24/2005
Good hike, took us about 7 hours. Great views and the bush-whacking was not nearly as bad as I expected. We made the mistake of desending down the northern face of The Peak; this was far too steep and combined with many loose rocks made for rough going. Otherwise a great day's hike.


Notice: Traveling in the backcountry can be hazardous. You are responsible for informing yourself about these hazards and taking necessary precautions. Information on this web site comes from volunteer reporters and may contain errors or omissions. A current guidebook and proper equipment are essential for safe enjoyment of the hikes posted on this site.
Keys: Virginia Hiking, Virginia Trails, Virginia Hikes, Page County Hiking, Page County Trails, Page County Hikes

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