This 227 mile section of the Appalachian Trail takes the AT across the James River and parallels the Blue Ridge Parkway for about 90 miles.  You'll find some unusual rock formations from the peaks of Humpback Rocks, Three Ridges, The Priest, McAfee Knob and Dragons Tooth that offer spectacular views.

This section is much more rugged and remote compared to Shenandoah National Park to the north, but its easier as well as more accessible compared to the trail in Southwestern Virginia.  A spectacular remote wilderness can be found in the George Washington National Forest.

Memorable places along this section of the Appalachian Trail include Peters Mountain, Wind Rock, Keffer Oak, Audie Murphy Monument, Dragons Tooth, Rawies Rest, McAfee Knob, Tinker Cliffs, Hay Rock, Cove Mountain, Fork Mountain, Floyd Mountain, Black Rock, Apple Orchard Mountain, The Guillotine, Thunder Ridge Overlook, James River, Fullers Rocks, Bluff Mountain, Punchbowl Mountain, Rice Mountain, Cold Mountain, Tar Jacket Ridge, Spy Rock, The Priest, Cripple Creek, Tye River, Chimney Rocks, Three Ridges, Hanging Rock, Cedar Cliffs and Humpback Mountain.

Use the links above to explore different sections of the AT in Central Virginia (links under construction).

We recommend purchasing any of the following books for those looking for more information on hiking the Appalachian Trail in Central Virginia:

 Appalachian Trail Guide to Central Virginia

 Hikes in the Virginias (Exploring the Appalachian Trail)

Page under construction

If you found the info on this website useful in planning your hiking adventures, then please use the DONATE button below to help us in maintaining this site!