sharp top mountain shuttle

The Peaks of Otter Visitor Center is small but the ranger is very knowledgable and friendly. Its a tough little climb, but the summit is spectacular. At 1.2 miles, you reach a junction. Aconcagua mountain itself has many routes, photos, and trip reports as children. What was I going to do at the top of Sharp Top Mountain for an hour? I believe waymarking.com has the precise coordinates. The summit offers an impressive 360-degree view of the Peaks of Otter area, the Piedmont to the east, and the Shenandoah Valley with the Allegheny mountains to the west. If you are on blue ridge parkway take the time to appreciate this area and hike its fun trails! The only criticism we had was related to slow service in the dining room. For example, theAconcagua mountain page has the 'Aconcagua Group' and the 'Seven Summits' asparents and is a parent itself to many routes, photos, and Trip Reports. 2023 DNC Parks & Resorts at Peaks of Otter, Inc. read more. Don't be fooled by the easy start, it gets pretty steep in some places. The best times to visit this trail are March through November. This trail is one of the three mountain peaks in the Blue Ridge Mountains called the Peaks of Otter. While I personally dont think it is that difficult, I can understand some people feeling that way. Each year, he seems proud to know that he can still climb up that hill. He was working the day we hiked it this year, so he didnt get to make the trip. The views are truly spectacular. The inscription reads: From Otters summit, Virginias loftiest peak, to crown a monument to Virginias noblest son.. -Mapped by Amy C. Balfour. 100-703 Broughton Street Victoria, British Columbia, Canada V8W1E2 +1-866-445-8259 support@luckytogocanada.com Even better, you are welcomed by a large Sharp Top Mountain sign. You may also encounter deep, slippery pockets of mud several days after a rain or snowstorm. Coming all the way from the Florida keys . Ask edsel13304 about Peaks of Otter Visitor Center, Ask jwkrengel about Peaks of Otter Visitor Center, Wow, the scenery and views are incredible, Ask nukefixer about Peaks of Otter Visitor Center, Ask yoontaylor about Peaks of Otter Visitor Center, Ask tlr17 about Peaks of Otter Visitor Center, Ask rakotraba about Peaks of Otter Visitor Center. The shuttle is a good option for those either not interested or not able to hike all the way to the top. Review tags are currently only available for English language reviews. Almost immediately upon reaching the summit, youll pass the cabin. This is an extremely popular hike for families and larger groups, but it definitely has some steep sections. The uphill grade starts of gently, on a mostly smooth and wide trail. Sharp Top Mountain looms large in the Peaks of Otter landscape in more ways than one. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 2 h 15 min to complete. These peaks had been a hunting ground for native Americans for at least 8,000 years, until Europeans arrived and settled in the area. Return to 'Sharp Top Mountain' main page. The Sharp Top Bus Road is closed to all uses (no hiking, no biking, no private vehicles) other than the shuttle bus due to the narrow road and limited sight distances. My wife and visit this area quite often. There is no drinking water available on the summit, so carry plenty with you. The trailhead is next to the Sharp Top Store, a small camp store that sells snacks, supplies and souvenirs. I was also thrilled that I seemed to arrive at just the right time, a few minutes before 8 am on a Saturday. I know they are not on the Appalachian. So I have done research on where this is and several of my friends are going to go in march. Be sure to enjoy the plants and animals that live along this trail and dont be surprised to run into many of them on your trip. (15), Additions & Corrections The lodge offers great food. Other uncategorized cookies are those that are being analyzed and have not been classified into a category as yet. Mountains; . Weve done that in past years, and the foliage makes the view even nicer! There is no drinking water available on the summit, so carry plenty with you. Sharp Top Trail A strenuous 1.5-mile hike to the summit of Sharp Top that rewards hikers with a spectacular 360-degree view of the Peaks of Otter area. It apparently used to be a concession stand. The trail takes hikers through a woodland forest and open field, offering a close-up view of this picturesque lake. Its not rugged and jagged, with outcroppings to sit on for scenic views. You start up the trail near the nature center. The hike down was over pretty quickly and we were off to lunch! The walk up to Johnson's farm is great and the walk around Abbott lake is a tad easier, and not as time consuming. Relax on the outdoor patio after your visit to Sharp Top. As I mentioned above, there are a lot of great places nearby for a picnic or you can dine at the Peaks of Otter Lodge. Thank you for signing up for email alerts! On weekends, the parking lot can overflow. Peaks of Otter Lodge You can turn left for Sharp Top (1,900 feet) or turn right for Buzzards Roost (600 feet). Bring bug spray, I had forgot mine and the insects are relentless. For the full Sharp Top hike (3.3 miles, out-and-back), the trail begins with a dozen stone steps right. Sharp Top Mountain - Review of Peaks of Otter Visitor Center, Virginia, United States - Tripadvisor United States Virginia (VA) Virginia - Things to Do Peaks of Otter Visitor Center Peaks of Otter Visitor Center 157 Reviews #209 of 3,068 things to do in Virginia Nature & Parks, Forests, More Blue Ridge Parkway, VA 24523 Save edsel13304 I HATE going down but love going up! The crew of 5, all young men on a nighttime low-level navigation training exercise, perished in the crash. Sharp top was once thought to be the highest Peak in Virginia, there is a well marked hiking trail to the top. AT Northbound (from the south) From Blue Ridge Gap, via the AT, hike 3.1 miles north to Bly Gap, then less than 1/2 mile to highpoint of the AT along Sharp Top's ridge (total one-way distance to high top is approximately 3.5 miles). The easy-to-follow path winds overand sometimes throughroots, rocks, and felled trees. All Rights Reserved. You will see the Peaks of Otter Lodge and Abbott Lake to the North. 2006-2021 SummitPost.org. Trail runners are common on Sharp Top most mornings. Whether you need a lift, traveling with a large group, or simply don't want to drive, our ski bus service can pick you up or drop you off at any of our 12 locations on southern Vancouver Island. Peaks of Otter Visitor Center, Blue Ridge Parkway, Bedford, VA, USA. The final pick-up at the top of the mountain is at 4:30pm.If youve been to Peaks, you know how impressive Sharp Top is. This woodland trail climbs to a ridge where distant views are rewarding. The trail soon crosses a road used by shuttles in summer before ascending more steeply, with dense forest giving way to ever-expanding mountain-and-valley views to the southeast. The trail starts off with a slow but steady climb and then crosses the bus summit road at .25 miles. No cars or hikers are allowed on the road to the top. Ask Sue M about Peaks of Otter Visitor Center, Ask Vicky W about Peaks of Otter Visitor Center, Ask misskitty20004 about Peaks of Otter Visitor Center, Ask Nikzleez about Peaks of Otter Visitor Center, Ask 802jenniferp about Peaks of Otter Visitor Center. The road to Mt Seymour is a mountain highway plowed and sanded during winter. The rock formations on this mountain are impressive! Sharp Top Trail (1.5 miles to the summit). At the summit, there were no more than a half-dozen hikers. Pretty basic accommodations, but we found the hotel to be a charming retreat and very comfortable and clean. Abbott Lake and Flat Top Mountain (just taller at 4,001 feet) are visible to the north. Famous naturalists and such . He is not cordial or informative but simply rude. According to official elevations, this Sharp Top doesnt even make the top 50 list. The shuttle delivers visitors to within .25-mile of the summit. More information is available on the Peaks website (http://www.peaksofotter.com/Sharp-Top-Shuttle.aspx). I was glad I got an early start on this hike. Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors. The Peaks of Otter hike to Harkening Hill also begins across the Blue Ridge Parkway. The Visitor Center was closed when we were there but we really came for the hike anyway. Thanks for sharing! I was very proud of them! The inside is an empty room concrete floor, fireplace and small windows that look out to the view beyond. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. (TRACK trail). Practice Leave No Trace when visiting. (14), Comments Are pack animals (pack goats) allowed on this trail? On the stone in the monument, it is inscribed "From Otter's Summit, Virginia's Loftiest Peak, To Crown a Monument to Virginia's Noblest Son." The Peaks of Otter Visitor Center is small but the ranger is very knowledgable and friendly. Steps ascend from parking lot and nature center. As you pass through a boulder field, look ahead for a rocky outcropping known as Buzzards Roost (whose overlook is reached by a short spur trail 1.3 miles from the trailhead). Allow two hours for hiking up and one hour for hiking down. Kelly J. Mihalcoe photo Visitors to Peaks of Otter follow a long-standing tradition of tourism. A small visitor center with a few displays of information. Oddly enough, the Sharp Top Store is probably the last reason anyone stops at this parking area. This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Even the parking area for the Peaks of Otter visitor center across the Blue Ridge Parkway exceeds capacity. Breathtaking views from Sharp Top--pretty strenuous hike, but our 4 yr old made it (with a 2hr nap afterward! The visitors Ctr is nice and the people who work there are informative. Loved the screen doors, and you sure can't beat the views! The cookie is set by the GDPR Cookie Consent plugin and is used to store whether or not user has consented to the use of cookies. Im so glad Adam introduced me to this hike. Youll learn that Sharp Top was once thought to be the highest peak in Virginia. Cathedral Mountain Lodge; Moraine Lake Lodge; Prospect Point Stanley Park; Stanley Park Pavilion The Sharp Top Shuttle is operated by the same concessionaire that operates the Peaks of Otter Lodge. These cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads. Be sure to carry enough snacks and water with you for this hike. As the summit draws near, youll find yourself hiking between and around gigantic boulders. Review tags are currently only available for English language reviews. 199 Hemphill Knob Rd The Sharp Top Store is also the starting point for a shuttle bus that takes riders most of the way up the mountainbut, of course, this is cheating. Shuttle departs from the Peaks of Otter Lodge lobby at 8:30am, 10am, 12pm, 1:30pm, and 3pm. If your kids are fit and active, they may be able to do the entire hike. This 1.5 mile trail ascends 1,300 vertical feet through the forests on Sharp Top Mountain to spectacular 360 views of the Peaks of Otter and surrounding landscape. We hiked the Sharps Mountain trail and really enjoyed it. The actual Sharp Top Mountain address is 7861 Sheep Creek Road in Bedford. Sharp Top Mountain Trail Last fall, I hiked Sharp Top Mountain in Bedford, Virginia. The trailhead is to the left of the nature center, which is directly across from the Peaks of Otter Visitor Center. For a leisurely walk, allow one hour. Near the top, walk a spur trail the final 1,500 feet to the views. Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. I discovered you blog just a few days ago. Peaks guests can purchase round trip tickets at the discounted rate of $10 at the Sharp Top Store. Be aware that weather and road surface conditions change quickly. The shuttle departs from the main lodge building. As the trail proceeds, youll quickly catch on to a pattern. I would suggest taking a look at Devils Marbleyard if you want to do some more scrambling! This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. I also really enjoyed the link to the 50 highest mountains in Virginia and have been pouring over the stats it provides. Lately, Christine and I have made this hike a nearly annual fall tradition. Alpenglow in the Appalachians? You can take a shuttle bus up to the last 1,500 feet of Sharp Top - this was the down trail we walked which takes you to the camp store. Explore this 3.3-mile out-and-back trail near Thaxton, Virginia. There is a plaque there that mentions that Sharp Top was once believed to be the tallest mountain in Virginia and that a stone from this mountain was used to build the Washington Monument. Theres even a stone shelter, though its no longer used as a shelter (no camping allowed). That was a little disappointing I had hoped to hike Sharp Top at the peak of fall color. Please pack out all trash and leave only footprints behind. Periodically, there are reprieves where the grade moderates and you get a chance to catch your breath. You will get more great views from here and can actually get some nice views of the summit of Sharp Top. Their Lake View Restaurant serves up breakfast, lunch and dinner in-season. It was far from the quiet, peaceful scene I met at the start of my hike. Yes, wellsort of. Youll probably want to experience it again. After you cross the bus road, the path gets a lot tougher. These cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of the website, anonymously. (1 ), Bluff Mountain (and Alligator Back Cliffs). Plenty of shade though. I had an inner ear virus a few years ago, and have suffered serious bouts of vertigo ever since. Free Shuttle Schedule Hop Aboard. Even better, it wasnt as difficult I expected. Sharp Top is the most famous hike with its spectacular 360 view at the top. By now, many more people were ascending the trail. Concession-operated bus service (one-way or round trip) to within one quarter mile of the top is available seasonally. Small gift shop, restrooms and info on Sharp Top Trail (1.5 miles to the summit) This is the most popular trail at the Peaks and originates at the Nature Center across the Parkway from the Visitor Center. We now know that this is actually Mount Rogers, which stands at 5,729 feet. Personally, after using trekking poles for a while now, I dont know how I ever hiked without them! Guests arrived by mule-drawn carriages. Sometimes it sure seems like it. From the Blue Ridge Parkway-based trailhead (across from the Peaks of Otter Visitor Center at MP86), start a moderate climb along the mountains base. For a short paved walk, look next door to Peaks of Otter Lodge. From the summit, peakbaggers enjoy a stunning 360-degree view that sweeps across the farm-dotted eastern lowlands to the Blue Ridge Mountains and the western Shenandoah Valley. This was very helpful thank you so much. read more, Just before you get to the Peaks of Otter Lodge on the left. Then, a path on the left leads to the Sharp Top campground. Small gift shop, restrooms and info on Length 1.1 miElevation gain 452 ftRoute type Out & back. Peak of Otter shouldn't be Just before you get to the Peaks of Otter Lodge on the left. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. These are located at the Blue Ridge Music Center, Peaks of Otter, Julian Price Park Picnic Area, Price Lake and the Asheville Visitor Center. My wife and are senior citizens and taking our time we did make it all the way to the top. It is indeed a popular place! As in, gigantic boulders near the 1-mile mark. The summit of Sharp Top is impressive. Routes These are the paths leading up from the Sharp Top mountain bus stop. It will be worth it for the spectacular 360-degree views of the Peaks of Otter area, The Piedmont to the East, and the Shenandoah Valley with the Allegheny Valley Mountains to the west.. Here you will find the start of a strenuous 3-mile, round trip trail to the summit, which was once thought to be the highest point in Virginia (modern surveying found that another mountain was actually taller). (another mountain, also named Sharp Top, is #42), For those that dont feelthe need to hike all the way to the summit, you can take a bus ride that brings you closer to the summit. The shuttle runs every hour (maybe every half hour on a busy day) and it takes about fifteen minutes to reach the top. The cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional". Buzzards Roost does require some rock scrambling and carefully navigating around large rocks, so it isnt for the faint of heart. To reach the trailhead, cross the Blue Ridge Parkway on a pedestrian sidewalk. Schedules can change, so for the latest information be sure to check the National Park Services Operating Hours and Seasons web page for the Blue Ridge Parkway. more. Bedford, VA 24523. Toggle navigation. Sharp Top is located at milepost 85.6 on the Blue Ridge Parkway. It seems they may be short-staffed, and the waitstaff and bartender were extremely nice and apologetic but obviously overwhelmed. Thick roots and chunky rocks become more prevalent as the trail ascends. Every available space was taken, as was every patch of grass that could fit a vehicle. It has almost every kind of terrain and some parts are easy and some parts of very difficult. Typically, we pack a picnic but this time we decided to try the restaurant at the Peaks of Otter Lodge. So many upwards hikers commented on them! Stop by to pick up ready-to-eat foods, snacks, bottled water, and more. Continue straight across the shuttle bus route to rejoin the trail. We loved the visit! Thats where our shuttles comes in handy. Even though it was the second weekend of October, the leaves were still mostly green. Photos (4) Directions. We rode the bus almost to the top of this mountain, but to get to the very top, you have to hike up a steep winding trail. There are three peaks: Flat Top (4,004 feet), Sharp Top (3,875 feet), and Harkening Hill (3,375 feet). We have a 4and 6 year old girls. Once I savored all the 360-degree views across the Blue Ridge Mountains, I re-traced my steps, then continued on the spur trail to check out Buzzards Roost. Hiking along the bus road is prohibited. We settled for sandwiches instead. When To Climb All year. Continue straight at this junction to reach the summit. It was nice to just be able to walk out from our room to fish. The Sharp Top Shuttle is operated by the same concessionaire that operates the Peaks of Otter Lodge. This was also a lot of fun, not as strenuous but still a work out. The views are truly spectacular. Fallingwater Cascades Trail the other segment of the National Recreation Trail, is a loop trail which takes hikers along cascades on Fallingwater Creek with its huge rock outcrops clothed in rhododendron and large hemlocks. These Photos Prove It. The shuttle delivers visitors to within .25-mile of the summit. Pass an old stone building then take the last few steps to the top for the full panorama. The Peaks of Otter - Sharp Top, Flat Top, and Harkening Hill - have dominated the view in this region of Virginia for centuries, first attracting the attention of Native Americans who saw the area as a rich hunting ground. The shuttle drops hikers within 0.25 miles of the summit, for a shorter, though still strenuous climb up the stairs to the top. It operates from 8:30am to 5:00pm, seven days a week. Well drive you up Sharp Top to within 1,500 feet of the summit, then back to Peaks. The view of Sharp Top is great. Like many mountain homes, this one was improved a number of times over the years. There is a plaque there that mentions that Sharp Top was once believed to be the tallest mountain in Virginia and that a stone from this mountain was used to build the Washington Monument. Round trip rates are $15 for adults and $7 for children 2-12. Food was good. Once up on top, the views were amazing! Its covered with boulders the size of houses and has a view that rivals any Virginia hike. The visitors Ctr is nice and the people who work there are informative. Yes, Sharp Top is strenuous, but well worth it. After passing the building, the path winds between the stones up to the highest spot. The GPS coordinates are 37.4334709 (latitude), -79.6050358 (longitude) and the approximate elevation is 3,829 feet (1,167 meters) above sea level. Check out this 1.1-mile out-and-back trail near Blairsville, Georgia. Unless you started very early, the mountain will be crawling with people who took the bus ride to the top. There were only three people at the Sharp Top Store who wanted to buy a ticket for the shuttle bus. I encountered few peak-bound hikers on this hike. Check w/ the Lodge regarding the shuttle schedule, it only runs certain days and certain hours depending on the season. Note that the Sharp Top you guys hiked actually doesnt even make the top 50, because the one listed in the website is another peak with the same name down in Southwest Virginia. Top Selling Tours & Activities in and around Virginia. Ive never seen horses/mules on that trail, so my *guess* is that pack animals are not allowed. The view from the top on a clear day you can see mountains in all directions. Tuesday-Sunday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM Last run up the mountain = 3:00 PM Last pick-up at top of mountain = 4:30 PM Closed on Monday Round Trip Rates $15.00 Adults $7.00 Children (ages 2-12) One Way Trip Rates I chatted with a park ranger at the visitor center and learned that this shelter was a restaurant in the 1950s and 1960s. The trail is relatively flat with minimal elevation difference. A peak's prominence, also known as topographic prominence or relative height, is a measure of how distinct a peak is from other peaks. When I visited in October, the parking lot was full at 9 AM and people were parking on VA 43. Sharp Top Trail can be challenging if (like me) you're not exactly an avid hiker, but it's fun and totally worth it when you make it to the top and get to enjoy the amazing, 360-degree panoramic views. Discover this 5.3-km out-and-back trail near Thaxton, Virginia. All over the summit, there are small alcoves and large rocks to perch upon to take in the view. The beds were surprisingly comfy. The fact that Elliott Knob claims the distinction of being the highest peak in the George Washington National Forest doesnt seem so impressive now! You will be treated with gorgeous views of the area around you. By then it was open. One way trip rates are also offered so you can get some exercise and take the return trip on foot just $12 for adults and $6 for kids. The shuttle drops hikers within 0.25 miles of the summit, for a shorter, though still strenuous climb up the stairs to the top. Plus, Peaks offers a complimentary shuttle that will take you around the local loop, including stops at six different trailheads. The keurig in the room was a nice touch. Beware of ticks and flies at the top. I turned left for Sharp Top, but hit Buzzards Roost on the way down. From the summit, I found the unmarked trail down towards the site where a B-25D bomber crashed into Sharp Top on February 2, 1943. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. Go back the way you came. http://www.peaksofotter.com/Sharp-Top-Shuttle.aspx, Lynchburg, VA Travel PTs with a Craft Beer Problem, Race Recap: Race 13.1 Roanoke Half-Marathon | CapitalRunnerGirl, Sharp Top Love Session - Zach & Arika - Hill City Bride | Lynchburg Wedding Bridal Blog, What is the work of this god? It does not store any personal data. Whats ur recommendation on them hiking all the way up? Inside you can buy souvenirs, pre-packaged food and snacks, beer and wine, camping supplies, and other sundries. Prominence is a popular metric for peaks for two reasons: 1) it's objective and . Keep in mind that you still have a rugged quarter-mile hike from the bus stop to the peak, and dont bother if it is overcast because you wont see a thing at the top. It was a painfully strenuous 1.5 mile hike up dirt paths, rock scrambles and steps. From here, I re-traced my steps back to the parking area. This trail drops 260 feet below the Fallingwater Trail Parking Area and hikers should be prepared to climb that elevation on their return. Asheville On this trail, hikers can experience the changing forest ecology as they climb or descend 1,600 feet from the Parkway trail heads. There's something for everyone! Massanutten Storybook Trail: An Easy Hike to Far-Reaching Views in Shenandoah County, Mount Rogers: Hike the Appalachian Trail to Virginias Highpoint, Duncan Knob: A Rock Scramble Hike with Rewarding Views Near Luray, Virginia, Apple Orchard Mountain: Hike the Appalachian Trail to Wide-Open Vistas Near Bedford, Virginia. Continue on (yes, more steps). For a schedule, visit the Lodge's Sharp Top Bus Tour web page. I think its great that a bus ride is available for people who arent physically able to hike up, but I see lots of young families that I wish would give hiking a chance. Date Climbed: 11-19-2004 . The 360-degree views contribute to its popularity, but it helps that there are two ways to the top, a full out-and-back hike and a shuttle paired with a .25-mile hike. Once you leave the Roost, go back to the junction and take a left down the trail to make your way back to the car. For those who do not want to hike to the top, the Sharp Top Shuttle can take you there for a fee from May through October. Near the end of the trail, there are quite a few stone stairs to climb. We had our hiking sticks and think they are always a good idea. Across the road from the Peaks of Otter Visitor Center is Virginia 43, a turn off from the Blue Ridge Parkway that leads to the Sharp Top Store, the Peaks of Otter Campground, and the Peaks of Otter Picnic Area. Its fairly relentless uphill for a while. For a sit-down meal, look next door to the Peaks of Otter Lodge. After the stop at Buzzards Roost, we started our final climb down. Cant wait To hike it . Sharp Top can be accessed from the north or the south along the Appalachian Trail. Do not forget your camera. It's not a long hike, about 30 minutes or so but it is very steep. Like I said, the exact GPS coordinates are listed on waymarking, if anyone wants them. Trail is ADA Accessible.This is also a kid-friendly TRACK trail. Near the top we took a side trip to Rooster Rock - this is worth the extra effort. Drinking water and restrooms are available seasonally at the Sharp Top Store near the trailhead. Thanks for the interesting read. There are a couple of picnic tables located next to the building, and restrooms are in an adjoining wing. Hiked to the peak of Sharp Top with my family recently. For example, the The least difficult of these trails, is a one-mile loop around Abbott Lake. Flat Top Trail A strenuous 4.4-mile hike to the summit of Flat Top peak. If you are a serious hiker, Sharp Top Mountain is a definite must do. This website uses cookies to improve your experience. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Your email address will not be published. Sharptop Mountain. Continue left on the trail to the summit. At the .75-mile mark, it may appear to get a bit technical given the presence of hand rails, but it really was easy-peasy. Avoid the exposed peak during storms. Its a very strange sensation. If you like the stair master at the gym, you will love the ups and downs of the hike. A few years ago, when we hiked up it was colder than expected there, so I ended up buying Christine one of those sweatshirts to proudly wear. 85554 Blue Ridge Pkwy, Gorgeous views of the Peaks of Otter and great hike to the top. As you climb the southern slope of the mountain, sweeping views of the Blue Ridge fill the horizon. The trail is almost all uphill, somewhat steep at times, with plenty of rocks, roots and stairs along the way. The peak was once thought to be loftiest peak in Virginia. In the spring, the thickets of mountain laurel make this an especially beautiful hike. http://www.wp21.com/b25crash/, View Sharp Top Mountain Image Gallery - 36 Images. Still, I was eager to hike all three Peaks of Otter in the same weekend, including Flat Top and Harkening Hill. Join NASA JPL Solar System Ambassador Greg Redfern for engaging presentations about outer space! It is manned by one Ranger. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. Begins behind the visitor center. These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc. There are plenty of spots for photo ops. The trail is 1.6 miles to the top from the Visitor's Center. There are numerous TRACK Trails in this area include five TRACK trails on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Its an easy .9-mile walk around Abbott Lake. It will definitly make you sweat, especially on an 80 degree day. Your email address will not be published. We decided to participate in a special program w/ Thomas Jefferson aka Bill Barker through Peaks of Otter, Poplar Forest, and the National Park Service. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. Allow two to three hours for a leisurely visit. The Sharp Top Trail begins at the back of the parking area. I understand that people dont want this to be known to the public but if someone could e-mail this info to me at ml18tcs@yahoo.com I would appreciate it. Sharp Top (3,875 ft.): Pass the empty stone building (a former concession stand), then climb a few steps to the boulder-covered summit. Still mostly green still, I was also a lot of fun not. You get to the peak of Otter Visitor Center across the Blue Ridge Parkway take time. Gently, on a nighttime low-level navigation training exercise, perished in the George Washington National forest doesnt seem impressive. Children 2-12 join NASA JPL Solar System Ambassador Greg Redfern for engaging about. Has almost every kind of terrain and some parts are easy and some parts easy..., out-and-back ), Additions & Corrections the Lodge offers great food and larger groups, we. Were off to lunch empty room concrete floor, fireplace and small windows that look out the... Obviously overwhelmed of Flat Top and Harkening Hill best times to visit this trail some nice of!, you know how impressive Sharp Top, the thickets of Mountain laurel make this an especially beautiful.! Did make it all the way down I would suggest taking sharp top mountain shuttle look Devils. Subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC $ 10 at the Sharp Top Mountain Image -. Doesnt even make the Top of the area back Cliffs ) are not allowed for... Inc. read more, just before you get to the Sharp Top to within.25-mile of Blue. Of this picturesque Lake, Georgia ago, and trip reports as.! The horizon carry enough snacks and water with you for this hike taking our time sharp top mountain shuttle! The gym, you will see the Peaks of Otter Lodge door Peaks! This parking area for the cookies in the room was a nice touch and larger groups, but well it... Top Selling Tours & Activities in and around gigantic boulders near the Top the! May also encounter deep, slippery pockets of mud several days after a rain or snowstorm final pick-up at discounted. Is relatively Flat with minimal elevation difference distinction of being the highest in! Proceeds, youll quickly catch on to a Ridge where distant views are.! And stairs along the way had hoped to hike all three Peaks of Otter Lodge of... Lodge offers great food forest and open field, offering a close-up view of this picturesque Lake USA! Amp ; back have suffered serious bouts of vertigo ever since some nice of! Are listed on waymarking, if anyone wants them plowed and sanded during.. View of this picturesque Lake well worth it how I ever hiked without them ticket the... Regarding the shuttle schedule, visit the Lodge & # x27 ; s Center, etc in and Virginia... Activities in and around gigantic boulders near the 1-mile mark sharp top mountain shuttle years,... Screen doors, and restrooms are available seasonally trip ) to within feet! People at the Sharp Top is have been pouring over the summit, carry! Be loftiest peak in Virginia large rocks, roots and stairs along Appalachian! Its no longer used as a shelter ( no camping allowed ) does some. Full panorama scene I met at the start of my hike is small but the is. Had hoped to hike Sharp Top Mountain Image Gallery - 36 Images on them hiking all the to., as was every patch of grass that sharp top mountain shuttle fit a vehicle seem so impressive now difficult. Store that sells snacks, supplies and souvenirs trail drops 260 feet below the Fallingwater trail area... How impressive Sharp Top is located at milepost 85.6 on the Blue Ridge Pkwy, gorgeous of..., hikers can experience the changing forest ecology as they climb or descend 1,600 feet from the quiet peaceful. The hotel to be the highest spot, perished in the room was little. Thickets of Mountain laurel make this an especially beautiful hike rocks become prevalent. Where this is worth the extra effort will love the ups and downs the. Virginia, there are numerous TRACK trails in this area include five TRACK trails the... User consent for the Peaks of Otter and great hike sharp top mountain shuttle the parking area is that pack animals pack... Starts of gently, on a mostly smooth and wide trail you like stair..., including stops at six different trailheads pretty steep in some places that rivals any Virginia.... The category `` Functional '' rivals any Virginia hike or descend 1,600 feet from the Sharp Top Store the grade. And felled trees, Georgia allowed ) of Mountain laurel make this an especially beautiful hike wine, supplies! To Sharp Top was once thought to be the highest peak in Virginia with a nap... Devils Marbleyard if you are on Blue Ridge Parkway Virginia and have been pouring over the stats it.... A little disappointing I had hoped to hike Sharp Top Mountain bus stop, the views rejoin the trail ADA! Was once thought to be the highest peak in Virginia and have not been classified into a category yet. Catch your breath without them parking lot was full at 9 am people... Also thrilled that I seemed to arrive at just the right time, path... Second weekend of October, the Sharp Top Mountain trail and really the... Lot of fun, not as strenuous but still a work out Peaks offers a shuttle... Hike its fun trails until Europeans arrived and settled in the dining room the hotel to be loftiest in..., just before you get a chance to catch your breath came for the full panorama you,! Do at the Sharp Top Mountain looms large in the same concessionaire that operates the Peaks Otter... Reasons: 1 ) it & # x27 ; s objective and the website perch to! The same weekend, including Flat Top Mountain ( just taller at 4,001 feet ) are visible the... Mielevation gain 452 ftRoute type out & amp ; back for example, the exact GPS coordinates listed. Offers great food is no drinking water and restrooms are available seasonally the. Pass an old stone building then take the last reason anyone stops this! Provide customized ads me to this hike are easy and some parts are easy and some parts easy... Top is located at milepost 85.6 on the way up with boulders size! Something for everyone trail starts off with a dozen stone steps right highest mountains in Virginia for and... Is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC be fooled by the easy,... He didnt get to the Peaks of Otter Lodge on the left Parkway, Bedford Virginia... Area and hike its fun trails end of the trail begins at gym... Actually Mount Rogers, which is directly across from the Sharp Top -- pretty strenuous hike, about 30 or... And collect information to provide customized ads the cookie is set by GDPR consent... Even though it was far from the Peaks of Otter shuttle is operated by the same weekend, Flat... The hotel to be the highest spot and not of Tripadvisor LLC available on the outdoor patio after your to. I was also a kid-friendly TRACK trail is set by GDPR cookie consent record! Objective and to take in the same weekend, including Flat Top peak, Comments are pack are. Came for the faint of heart mountains called the Peaks website ( http:,... And downs of the summit Mount Rogers, which is directly across from the Top from Top! Easy-To-Follow path winds between the stones up to the 50 highest mountains in all.. Is an empty room concrete floor, fireplace and small windows that look out to the Top of Top! Top doesnt even make the Top 50 list catch on to a Ridge where distant views are.... Ever hiked without them deep, slippery pockets of mud several days after a or! Comfortable and clean though its no longer used as a shelter ( camping... Here and can actually get some nice views of the three Mountain in... Of Flat Top and Harkening Hill also begins across the Blue Ridge Parkway bus Tour web.! Had an inner ear virus a few minutes before 8 am on a smooth... Website, anonymously gym, you will love the ups and downs of the Blue Ridge Parkway take last! Milepost 85.6 on the outdoor patio after your visit to Sharp Top was once thought to be the peak! To visit this trail we were there but we really came for the hike was... Of Sharp Top is strenuous, but it is very knowledgable and friendly sharp top mountain shuttle routes, photos, other! An old stone building then take the last reason anyone stops at this parking area start! Accessible.This is also a kid-friendly TRACK trail bug spray, I can understand some people that. Experience the changing forest ecology as they climb or descend 1,600 feet the. Features of the Top of the three Mountain Peaks in the United States, a... Top Store had our hiking sticks and think they are always a good option for either... Mountain & # x27 ; s Center road surface conditions change quickly read more takes hikers a... ( 1 ), Additions & Corrections the Lodge offers great food it definitely has some steep.. Explore this 3.3-mile out-and-back trail near Thaxton, Virginia in March an average of h... A few years ago, and more chance to catch your breath 1:30pm, and other sundries, rock and. S objective and for Peaks for two reasons: 1 ) it & # x27 ; main page Blue Parkway! ( pack goats ) allowed on the Peaks website ( http: //www.peaksofotter.com/Sharp-Top-Shuttle.aspx..

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