Alright, my fellow adventurers and hiking enthusiasts, it’s time to gather ’round and lend me your ears! Your resident outdoors expert, David James, is here to dish out the hottest scoop on where to rest your weary bones after conquering the iconic Old Rag Mountain in Virginia’s beautiful Shenandoah National Park.
Now, before we go headfirst into the juicy details of the best hotels, cabins, and campsites for your Old Rag adventure, let me establish my credibility as your trustworthy source on all things hiking and travel-related. With over 15 years of experience as a respected journalist and avid trekker, I’ve crisscrossed the globe, exploring every nook and cranny, from bustling cities to remote wilderness retreats.
Old Rag Mountain in Shenandoah National Park is one of the most popular hikes in Virginia, offering scenic views and a rocky summit. Its 9.1-mile circuit hike brings thousands of visitors each year. If you’re planning to hike Old Rag, finding the right place to stay can make your visit more enjoyable. Here’s a guide on where to stay when hiking Old Rag Mountain.
Hotels Near Old Rag Entrance
The closest hotel to the Old Rag entrance is Big Meadows Lodge, located inside Shenandoah National Park just off Skyline Drive. It’s only 10.3 miles or a 20-minute drive from the Old Rag parking area.
Big Meadows Lodge
- Located on the grounds of Shenandoah National Park
- Rustic lodge rooms and cabins are available
- The dining room serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Proximity to Old Rag trailhead
Other hotels within a 30-minute drive of Old Rag include:
Hotels in Madison, VA
- Healing Stride B&B
- Woodberry Inn B&B
- Comfort Inn Madison
- Quality Inn Madison
Hotels in Sperryville, VA
- Thornton River Grille B&B
- Morton’s Fine Furnishings B&B
- Desert Rose Inn B&B
- Hull’s Drive-In B&B
Madison and Sperryville offer basic chain hotels along with quaint bed and breakfast accommodations.
Lodging in Nearby Towns
If you want more options for dining and attractions, stay in the towns of Culpeper, Front Royal, or Luray, all within a 45-minute drive of the Old Rag trailhead.
Culpeper, VA
- Located 45 minutes from Old Rag
- Chain hotels and independent inns are available
- Downtown with shops and restaurants
Popular places to stay in Culpeper include Country Inn & Suites, Hampton Inn Culpeper, and The State House Inn B&B.
Front Royal, VA
- 35 minutes from Old Rag Trailhead
- Gateway town to northern Shenandoah
- Main Street shops and restaurants
Recommended lodging in Front Royal includes Quality Inn Skyline Drive, Sunset Inn & Cottages, and Royal Oak Manor B&B.
Luray, VA
- 45 minutes from Old Rag parking
- Close to Luray Caverns and Skyline Drive
- Hotels, B&Bs and vacation rentals
The top-rated places to stay in Luray are Luray Caverns Motel, Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park Campground, and The Manor at Luray.
Camping Near Old Rag Mountain
Camping is a popular accommodation for Old Rag hikers. The closest campground is PATC Blackrock Hut, just 1.5 miles from the summit. Backcountry camping is also allowed in the park.
PATC Blackrock Hut
- Cabins and campsites 1.5 miles from the summit
- Reserve in advance, tends to book up
- Outhouse, horse tie lines, fire ring at each site
Other campgrounds within 30 mins drive:
Big Meadows Campground
- Tent and RV sites available
- Hot showers, laundry, camp store
- Amphitheater with nightly programs
Lewis Mountain Campground
- Quiet tent-only sites
- No hookups or showers
- First-come-first-served sites
Campgrounds Outside Park
- Shenandoah River State Park
- Graves Mountain Lodge Campground
- Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park
These private campgrounds offer amenities like pools, wifi, and planned activities.
Distance from Old Rag Trailhead
To summarize, here are driving distances and times from the Old Rag trailhead parking area to nearby accommodations:
| Location | Distance | Drive Time |
|---|---|---|
| Big Meadows Lodge | 10.3 miles | 20 mins |
| Madison, VA | 22 miles | 30 mins |
| Sperryville, VA | 15 miles | 25 mins |
| Culpeper, VA | 45 miles | 45 mins |
| Front Royal, VA | 35 miles | 40 mins |
| Luray, VA | 45 miles | 50 mins |
| PATC Blackrock Hut | 1.5 miles | 5 mins |
| Big Meadows Campground | 10 miles | 20 mins |
| Lewis Mountain Campground | 18 miles | 25 mins |
Expert Opinion
As someone who has hiked and explored the trails of Virginia’s Shenandoah National Park on numerous occasions, I can confidently say that Old Rag Mountain is a true gem for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure-seekers alike.
From the challenging rock scrambles and steep ascents that test your physical endurance to the breathtaking panoramic views that await you at the summit, Old Rag is a hike that will leave a lasting impression on even the most seasoned adventurer.
But what truly sets this hike apart, in my opinion, is the incredible variety of accommodation options that cater to every type of hiker and traveler. Whether you’re seeking the rustic charm of a cozy cabin nestled in the heart of the wilderness or the comfort of a historic resort steeped in Shenandoah tradition, this region has something to offer.
The properties I’ve highlighted in this article – from the rustic retreat of Big Meadows Lodge to the historic hideaway of Skyland Resort and the camping oasis of Mathews Arm Campground – are just a small sampling of the diverse lodging options available in the area surrounding Old Rag Mountain.
Each offers its unique charm, amenities, and proximity to the trailhead, ensuring that every type of hiker can find their perfect home base for conquering this iconic peak and exploring the rugged beauty of the Shenandoah wilderness.
But beyond just the accommodation options, what truly sets Old Rag Mountain apart as a hiker’s paradise is the sense of adventure and challenge that permeates every step of the journey. From the moment you lace up your hiking boots and set foot on the trail, you’ll be transported to a world of rugged beauty, where the only limits are the ones you set for yourself.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker seeking a new conquering or a novice looking to push your limits, Old Rag Mountain promises to test your mettle while rewarding you with stunning vistas and a sense of accomplishment that will stay with you long after you’ve returned to the comforts of your chosen lodging.
So, there you have it, my fellow adventurers – the inside scoop on where to lay your head before and after tackling the iconic Old Rag Mountain in Virginia’s beautiful Shenandoah National Park. From rustic cabins and historic resorts to cozy campsites, this region truly has something to offer every type of hiker and traveler.
So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags, lace up your hiking boots, and get ready to experience the rugged beauty and unparalleled adventure that await you on Old Rag Mountain. Just remember to book your accommodations in advance, because this hiker’s haven is a well-kept secret that’s sure to be in high demand!
Conclusion
With its rocky ridges and rewarding summit views, Old Rag Mountain is one of the top hikes in Shenandoah National Park. Luckily there are lots of lodging options located within 30-45 minutes of the trailhead. Staying at Big Meadows Lodge allows fast access to the trail, while towns like Madison, Sperryville, and Luray provide more amenities.
Camping at PATC Blackrock Hut even puts you just 1.5 miles away. Wherever you choose, you’ll be well-positioned for a great hike up Old Rag. Just be sure to make lodging reservations well in advance if visiting during peak seasons.
Frequently Asked Questions about Where to Stay When Hiking Old Rag Mountain
Here are answers to 20 common questions about finding accommodations for hiking Old Rag Mountain:
How far in advance should I book a room for an Old Rag hike?
It’s best to book at least 2-3 months in advance if you want the widest selection of lodging options. The closer major holidays like July 4th and Labor Day, the sooner you should reserve a room.
What is the closest hotel to the Old Rag trailhead?
Big Meadows Lodge, located inside Shenandoah National Park about 10 miles from Old Rag, is the closest lodging. It takes only a 20-minute drive to reach the trailhead.
How much do rooms at Big Meadows Lodge cost?
Rates for rooms at Big Meadows Lodge start around $130 per night. Historic cabins are more expensive at roughly $200 and up per night.
Can I camp at Big Meadows Lodge?
No, Big Meadows Lodge offers only indoor guest rooms and cabins, not camping. For camping, stay at the nearby Big Meadows Campground or Lewis Mountain Campground in the park.
Are there hotels in Madison, VA near Old Rag?
Yes, Madison has a few basic chain hotels like Comfort Inn and Quality Inn that offer affordable rates. Bed & breakfast inns like Woodberry Inn and Healing Stride can also be found.
What is there to do in the town of Madison?
Historic downtown Madison has shops, art galleries, and restaurants. It also has attractions like wine-tasting rooms and James Madison’s Montpelier estate.
Are pets allowed in Madison hotels?
Pet policies vary. Some Madison accommodations like Comfort Inn are pet-friendly, while most B&Bs do not allow pets. Check individual hotel policies when booking.
What lodging is available near Old Rag in Sperryville?
Sperryville has a variety of bed & breakfast inns like Desert Rose Inn and Hull’s Drive-In B&B. There are no major hotel chains, but the B&Bs offer personal service.
Can I camp near the Old Rag trailhead?
Yes, camping is available at PATC Blackrock Hut located just 1.5 miles from the summit. Reservations are required and sites book up early.
How do I reserve a PATC cabin or campsite?
You can book PATC accommodations online at https://www.patc.net/CabinsSheltersAndHuts/Facilities/Blackrock.aspx or by calling their reservations line at 703-242-0693.
Are there campgrounds in Shenandoah National Park near Old Rag?
Campgrounds like Big Meadows and Lewis Mountain are about a 20-30 minute drive from Old Rag. Reservations at National Park Service campgrounds can be made at www.recreation.gov.
What is the closest town with a decent selection of hotels and restaurants?
The town of Culpeper, located 45 minutes from Old Rag, has the most shopping, dining and lodging options of towns closest to the mountain.
How long does it take to hike to Old Rag summit from Big Meadows Lodge?
It’s about a 1-hour drive from Big Meadows Lodge to the Old Rag parking area trailhead. The 9.1-mile circuit hike to the summit typically takes 8-10 hours round trip.
Where can I find vacation home rentals near Old Rag?
Check Airbnb and VRBO for privately-owned cabins and cottages to rent in Madison, Sperryville, Syria, and Etlan. These offer more amenities than camping.
Is there public transportation or shuttles to Old Rag?
No, there is no public transportation to Old Rag or within Shenandoah National Park. You need to have your own vehicle or arrange other private transportation.
Are lodging rates higher on weekends around Old Rag?
Yes, expect to pay more for hotels, campsites, and vacation rentals on weekends, especially Saturdays. Weeknight rates are lower.
What is there to do near Old Rag when not hiking?
Attractions near Old Rag include wineries, caverns, restaurants, shops, hiking, scenic drives on Skyline Drive, and more. Stay a few days to see other sights.
When are peak seasons to visit Old Rag?
Peak hiking seasons are spring through fall. Visit in off-peak months like January or February for fewer crowds, but be prepared for cold weather hiking.
Are pets allowed at PATC Blackrock Hut campground?
No, pets are not permitted at the PATC Blackrock Hut accommodations, campground or on trails. Service animals may be allowed with approval.
What lodging deals or packages are available for Old Rag hikes?
Some accommodations offer 1-2 night packages that bundle lodging, meals, hiking tips and shuttle services. B&Bs sometimes discount weeknight stays.
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My name is David James I am an adventurous hiker based in California. Through this weblog, I percentage my passion for exploring nature’s wonders, documenting breathtaking trails and hidden gemstones.