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Hike Turk Mountain

Crozet, Virginia

4.0/5
based on 4 reviews

Details

Distance

2.2 miles

Elevation Gain

700 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Elyse Clark

This is a short and secluded hike in the southern district of Shenandoah National Park to a rocky summit with great views to the northwest.

From the parking area at Turk Gap (MP 94.1), cross over the Skyline Drive.  The Appalachian Trail (AT) intersects right here, and take the AT south by taking the trail on the left.  After 0.2 miles you will turn right off of the AT onto the blue-blazed Turk Mountain Trail.  The trail junctions mentioned above are well marked with stone posts. 

The Turk Mountain Trail descends down into a saddle, then climbs gradually to the summit of Turk Mountain (2,981 feet).  Once you see the summit marker on the left side of the trail, continue straight on the rocks to an open boulder field with views to the north and west. 

To complete the hike, simply retrace your steps back down the Turk Mountain Trail, turn left on the AT, and cross the Skyline Drive to your car.  

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Features

Photography
Hiking
Easy Parking
Forest
Scenic
Wildflowers
Wildlife

Hike Turk Mountain Reviews

This isn't my favorite hike in Shenandoah, but it's definitely not the worst! Beautiful views at the top, but a word of caution to people with dogs. Dogs are allowed the whole way, but when you get to the view point there is a rock scramble that is too high for them to get to. Luckily I had someone with me so we could take turns looking at the views from the rocks, but if I was by myself I would have had to turn around.

Done in Sept 2019 with 2 dogs. Difficult for them with the rocks at the summit but they’re both athletic so they managed.

We did this hike in May, it was wonderful! We encountered about 15 other people on the hike. Great views and easy hike!

Loved this hike! Did it back in May and really enjoyed both summits. We were thrilled with the first summit so much so that we almost missed the second! I also crossed paths with my first rattlesnake during this hike. Definitely recommend this hike for a quick out and back trip.

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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