Shenandoah National Park offers some of the best hikes on the east coast. One of the greatest attractions at Shenandoah National Park is the famous Old Rag Mountain hike. If you’re visiting Shenandoah, hiking Old Rag is a must. If you’re like many first time hikers, you’re probably wondering how long does it take to hike Old Rag Mountain? We’ve got you covered!

Preparation is key, and understanding how long it takes to hike Old Rag Mountain is one of the first steps. Before any hike, you should always gauge the total mileage and elevation gain of the trail. A 1 mile stretch of flat ground trail will take 15-20 minutes on average. But when you add elevation to the equation, that time will only increase.

The Old Rag Mountain loop trail is roughly 10-miles in length and typically heavily trafficked during the prime hiking months of June, July, and August. The elevation gain on this trail is no joke, reaching approximately 2,500 feet at the highest point of the trail.

So, How Long Does it Take to Hike Old Rag Mountain?

Like all hikes, there is no set time it takes to hike Old Rag Mountain. Your level of fitness, determination, and experience all play factors in your completion time. But, I can tell you that the three times that I’ve personally hiked Old Rag Mountain, my average completion time was around 6 hours. It’s worth noting that I always leave time at the summit to take in the magnificent views and eat a snack to refuel, so that time is factored into the total completion time. To be safe, I would suggest giving yourself 7-8 hours to complete the trail, especially before nightfall.

Learning about other’s experiences and advice is crucial before doing anything for the first time. I’d recommend checking out the reviews on All Trails for the Old Rag Mountain loop trail to get some more perspective.

Should I Hike the Old Rag Mountain Loop Trail?

Make no mistake, Old Rag Mountain is a difficult trail. Most of the trail is comprised of straight paths and switchbacks, making the elevation gain easier. However, about 3/4 of the way through the hike you’ll come to a rock scramble that requires a lot of energy exertion. Although the rock scramble is easily one of the best parts of this hike, it’s also the most difficult.

Every time you think you’ve reached the summit, you haven’t. One rock scramble leads to another, followed by one summit view leading to another. The Old Rag Mountain loop trail is unforgettable and one of my favorite hikes on the east coast. But, attempting this hike without adequate training or conditioning is not recommended. If you’re looking for a workout program specifically designed for hikers, check out this blog on how to train for hiking.

Plan Your Hike

• Be sure that you’re in shape enough to complete this hike. Not only does this trail require physical endurance due to the length, but it also requires upper and lower muscle strength to combat the elevation gain and rock scrambles.

• Proper footwear is crucial. Many of the rocks in the rock scramble are worn down and smooth due to the years and years of traffic. I would highly suggest a quality pair of hiking boots or trail runners to give you the traction you need.

• Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate! Make sure that you bring at least 2 quarts of water for the Old Rag Mountain loop trail. Water is kind of important, duh.

• Double-check the weather forecast. No one wants to hike in bad conditions. Be sure that the weather is clear of rain and especially thunder and lightning. Like most summits, Old Rag Mountain is completely exposed at the summit, and much of the rock scramble.

• Get there early! Like I said before, this trail is popular. The earlier you get there, the more parking that’ll be available, and the fewer people will be with you on the summit.

• Pets are not allowed on the Old Rag Mountain loop trail. Due to the level of difficulty and danger of this hike, pets are prohibited.

Final Thoughts

Should I hike Old Rag Mountain? How long does it take to Hike Old Rag Mountain? The answers to these questions vary depending on your level of hiking experience. Most frequent hikers are capable of conquering this mountain and able to live to tell the story. But, the number of search and rescue missions that take place every year on this single trail should be enough warning on its own. Check out this video to give yourself a better idea of the trail from start to finish.