- Highlights: Great views, Appalachian Trail
- Distance: 2.3 miles out and back
- Elevation Change: 245 feet
- Trail Surface: Dirt with rocky sections
- Difficulty Level: Easy (rocky sections)
- Trailhead Parking: Dripping Rock, Blue Ridge Parkway MP 9.6
- Website: AllTrails https://www.alltrails.com/explore/trail/us/virginia/dripping-rock-south-via-appalachian-trail
- Beer Pairings: Stable Craft Brewing—Shenny Doah Pilsner & Robot Cowboy Hazy IPA
The Hike:
This short hike has some great views with just a little effort. The most difficult part of this hike may be finding a parking space. The Dripping Rock parking area holds 4-5 cars so arrive early or late.
Cross the parkway and follow the white-blazed Appalachian Trail south. There are some rocky sections and you also pass by some interesting rock formations. The AT passes right beside the Cedar Cliffs overlook at .5 miles. The views are to the west and northwest of the Shenandoah Valley. Sunsets and fall foliage here are as good as it gets.
Continue on the AT for another .6 miles. You will see a sign pointing to an overlook on the right. A short spur trail takes you to some nice views to the west and southwest. Sherando lake and the valley floor open up before you. Take in the great views, have a snack, and return on the spur trail. Turn left on the white-blazed AT to return to the parking area and your vehicle.
Hike Photos:
Click on an image below for an enlarged view.
Beer Pairing:
The Wintergreen area has lots of good post-hike beer options as does Waynesboro. We opted for a bit of a road trip to check out Stable Craft Brewing in Waynesboro. This farm brewery has indoor and outdoor seating, a great beer garden/patio, and is dog friendly. They also have 20 beers and cider on tap. They have an extensive food menu with a variety of salads, entree and handhelds.
Kathy loves hazy IPAs and Robot Cowboy (7% ABV) did not disappoint. This NEIPA is generously hopped with Amarillo, Citra, and Mosaic. Pete likes his pilsners and Shienny Doah (4.7% ABV • 27 IBU) delivers. It’s a refreshing beer to enjoy in the great outdoors
Hike and drink responsibly. Never drink and drive. Stay safe, be responsible, and leave no trace.