- Highlights: Sherando Lake, White Rock Falls, views
- Distance: 9.5 mile loop
- Elevation Change 1,755 feet
- Trail Surface: Dirt, several rocky sections, nearly 1 mile on paved roads through the campground
- Difficulty Level: Strenuous
- Trailhead Parking: White Rock Gap parking area, Blue Ridge Parkway, mile post 18.5
- Trail Markings: yellow and blue blazes, sign posts at junctions
- Website: AllTrails and Hiking Upward
- Beer Pairings: Three Notched Brewing—Totally Pine IPA and Emperor of Clouds DIPA
Trail Map:
The Hike:
This hike packs in a lot in just under ten miles: a waterfalls, mountain views, two lakes, and a ridge line. We hiked over Labor Day weekend so the water levels in the falls were a bit low and peak foliage is still weeks away—but this was still a great hike. Several years ago, we hiked a smaller loop to White Rock Falls. This longer hike visits Upper and Lower Sherando Lakes. There are several trail junctions and multiple trails on this hike. We recommend downloading the AllTrail map of this hike.
White Rock Falls:
This is a loop, so either direction will work. We opted to hike clockwise. Cross the BRP to reach the yellow-blazed White Rock Falls Trail. After a stream crossing, the trail becomes very steep. Look for a post on the right marking the short spur trail to the falls. Pass a huge rock outcropping as you make your way down to the falls.
About .3 miles after the falls are several overlooks with nice views to the east. The trail levels out as you reach the Blue Ridge Parkway and the Slacks Overlook with a nice view to the west. At the far end of the parking lot, follow the short connector trail to reach the blue-blazed Slacks Overlook Trail.
Slacks Overlook & Torry Ridge Trails:
The next 2.5 miles on the Slacks and Torry Ridge trails is a mostly level hike along the ridge. The best time for views on this part of the hike is fall foliage season or after the leaves are down. Bear right at the junction following the sign to Overlook Rock and Sherando Lake. The trail begins a very steep—and very rocky—descent to the lake. Bear left at the junction with the Dam Trail and continue descending down to the lake.
Sherando Lake:
Follow the Lakeside Trail as it passes beside the lake. Sherando Lake Recreation Area is known as the jewel of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The lake, campground, and trails were built by the Civilian Conservation Corps during the mid 1930s. Just past the beach, the trail becomes a bit confusing as it winds along the park road through the campground.
We hiked up the wooden steps for a view of the upper lake and then joined the yellow-blazed White Rock Gap Trail. The trail gradually climbs as you ascend to the Blue Ridge Parkway and the White Rock Gap parking area.
Hike Photos:
Beer Pairing:
Three Notched Brewery and Craft Kitchen north of Wintergreen is about 20 minutes from the trailhead. Located in the former Wild Wolf Brewery, Three Notched has over ten taps of craft beer, cider, craft cocktails, and non-alcohol options. The craft kitchen serves up a variety of tasty food options, they have plenty of indoor and outdoor seating, and dogs are welcome outside.
Pete was driving, so Kathy didn’t hesitate to order a pint of Emperor of the Clouds (9.0% ABV • 20 IBU), a hazy double IPA. Brewed with Citra and Strata hops, the Emperor has the tropical notes she likes. Pete loves his west-coast IPAs and Totally Pine (7% ABV • 70 IBU) has subtle pine flavors balanced by bitter West Coast hops. Totally Pine is a collaboration with Deschutes Brewery which is another reason to add this beer to your must-try list. Hoppy trails!
Hike and drink responsibly. Never drink and drive. Stay safe, be responsible, and leave no trace.