Best trails in Afton
4.7(3,647 reviews)
Looking for the best hiking trails in Afton? Whether you're getting ready to hike, bike, trail run, or explore other outdoor activities, AllTrails has 6 scenic trails in the Afton area. Enjoy hand-curated trail maps, along with reviews and photos from nature lovers like you.
Check out some trails with historic sights or adventure through the nature areas surrounding Afton that are perfect for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts at any skill level.
Top trails
1
(2427)
•Hard
•4.5 mi
•Est. 2h 57m
Although only 2.25 miles long, the Blue Ridge Tunnel Trail has plenty of wow factor. After nearly 20 years of effort by Nelson County, the rail trail passes through a 4,700-foot tunnel bored through the Blue Ridge Mountains of central Virginia, originally constructed between 1850 and 1858. Spanning nearly a mile long, it was the longest tunnel in America at the time of its completion. As the tunnel isn’t lit, visitors should bring a headlamp or flashlight for the experience.
The eastern...
2
(337)
•Moderate
•5.8 mi
•Est. 2h 45m
The summit of Scott Mountain is private. Please respect the property owners request and stay on the Appalachian Trail when using this route. This hike starts at Rockfish Gap off the Blue Ridge Parkway and hikes north on the Appalachian Trail to McCormick Gap.
To head back to the trailhead, retrace foot steps back to Rockfish Gap.
3
(56)
•Moderate
•105.0 mi
•Est. Multi-day
A truly amazing drive with views on both sides. The Appalachian Trail parallels the road in many spots and lots of other short trails to views, summits, and waterfalls are easily accessible from parking areas along the road.
Expect breathtaking views and animals large and small. There is a restaurant with a view at Skyland to stop at.
5
(679)
•Moderate
•9.7 mi
•Est. 4h 28m
The Appalachian Trail from Rockfish Gap to Paul Wolfe Shelter features a mix of ups and downs, with some level ridge lines. The trail meanders through the woods. As you approach the Paul Wolfe Shelter, you'll find a covered porch and a picnic table, making it a great place to rest. The trail also includes a few small stream crossings. As you continue, you'll encounter an outcropping that offers stunning views of the valley below.
Trail reviews for Afton
This is definitely a unique hike. Make sure to take a light and be prepared for some puddles inside the tunnel.
Trail head is accessed walking across 64 over pass, then to the right about 150 feet after crossing over 64. Free parking because it’s outside the parks entrance. If the small lot is full there is a Howard Johnson’s motel that is closed ( permanently) that you can park and walk back up the hill. No bathrooms.
Parking: Free, Large lot
Scott Mountain via Appalachian Trail
It’s a national park you can’t go wrong
Parking: Entry fee, Free, Large lot
Skyline Drive: Waynesboro to Front Royal
Great hike out to the Paul C. Wolfe Shelter. Plenty of wet weather crossings along the AT. Lots of flowers blooming and plenty of small wildlife around. A black rat snake was patrolling the shelter grounds keeping things rodent-free. We thanked him for his service
Appalachian Trail: Rockfish Gap to Paul Wolfe Shelter
8.4 mile hike on AT starting @ Humpback Rocks & ending @ Rockfish Gap/. At intersection of Skyline Dr & Rt 64 …..very near Waynesboro
Frequently asked questions
What is the longest trail in Afton?
According to AllTrails.com, the longest trail in Afton is Rockfish Gap to Dripping Rock via Appalachian Trail [CLOSED]. This trail is estimated to be 24.0 mi long.
Which trail has the most elevation gain in Afton?
Afton: With an ascent of 66,840 ft, Blue Ridge Parkway has the most elevation gain of all of the trails in the area. The next highest ascent trail is Skyline Drive: Waynesboro to Front Royal with 9,927 ft of elevation gain.
What is the most popular and difficult trail in Afton?
The most popular and difficult trail in Afton is Blue Ridge Tunnel with a 4.7-star rating from 2,427 reviews.
Are there camping trails available in Afton?
According to AllTrails.com, there are 2 camping trails in Afton and the most popular is Appalachian Trail: Rockfish Gap to Paul Wolfe Shelter [CLOSED] with an average 4.6 star rating from 679 community reviews.
Are there running trails available in Afton?
According to AllTrails.com, there are 2 running trails in Afton and the most popular is Scott Mountain via Appalachian Trail with an average 4.4 star rating from 337 community reviews.
Are there biking trails available in Afton?
According to AllTrails.com, there are 2 biking trails in Afton and the most popular is Skyline Drive: Waynesboro to Front Royal with an average 4.9 star rating from 56 community reviews.