The visitors Ctr is nice and the people who work there are informative. Coming all the way from the Florida keys . There's something for everyone! This is a steep and strenuous route and should be attempted only by those in good health. NC Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. The trailhead is beside the camp store. Its like the feel of my feet doesnt match what my eyes are seeing. For example, theAconcagua mountain page has the 'Aconcagua Group' and the 'Seven Summits' asparents and is a parent itself to many routes, photos, and Trip Reports. Continue on (yes, more steps). Kelly J. Mihalcoe photo Visitors to Peaks of Otter follow a long-standing tradition of tourism. Fallingwater Cascades Trail the other segment of the National Recreation Trail, is a loop trail which takes hikers along cascades on Fallingwater Creek with its huge rock outcrops clothed in rhododendron and large hemlocks. But needless to say youll never find me doing any serious rock climbing! Its a very strange sensation. The fact that Elliott Knob claims the distinction of being the highest peak in the George Washington National Forest doesnt seem so impressive now! Peak of Otter shouldn't be Just before you get to the Peaks of Otter Lodge on the left. Peak of Otter shouldn't be The Peaks of Otter Visitor Center is small but the ranger is very knowledgable and friendly. He is not cordial or informative but simply rude. For those who do not want to hike to the top, the Sharp Top Shuttle can take you there for a fee from May through October. The view was very nice and it's a good place to enjoy your lunch although it probably could be crowded on some days. Thanks for the visit! According to a sign near the summit, the boulders formed after diorite rock split apart along weather-weakened seams. Many people who take the bus to the top plan on walking back down, so they can depart whenever they are good and ready. Make sure you have proper shoes those, flooding is a common thing in this area and a few times my boyfriend and I had to find ways around the trails since they were under water. Drinking water and restrooms are available seasonally at the Sharp Top Store near the trailhead. Once up on top, the views were amazing! It was a delicious meal and a relaxing time. Lately, Christine and I have made this hike a nearly annual fall tradition. Sign up for Outside+ today. Yes, wellsort of. The Peaks of Otter Gift Shop, Country Store, and Sharp Top Shop offer provisions to complement your Blue Ridge Mountain getaway. You will get more great views from here and can actually get some nice views of the summit of Sharp Top. The summit offers an impressive 360-degree view of the Peaks of Otter area, the Piedmont to the east, and the Shenandoah Valley with the Allegheny mountains to the west. Continue left on the trail to the summit. (36), Climber's Log Entries The trail is popular with families, and youll even see the occasional dog (a leash is required). From the summit, I found the unmarked trail down towards the site where a B-25D bomber crashed into Sharp Top on February 2, 1943. Dinner at the lodge and a walk around the grounds for photographs. It operates from 8:30am to 5:00pm, seven days a week. Near the top we took a side trip to Rooster Rock - this is worth the extra effort. For a less crowded experience, consider relaxing at the Buzzards Roost spur rather than hiking all the way up to the summit. Bus/Shuttle Stop, Food/Drink - Ice Cream, Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits, Information, Parking - Auto, Restroom - Seasonal, Scenic View/Photo Spot, Trailhead, Trash/Litter Receptacles, Water - Drinking/Potable. Our favorite so far is Humpback Rocks and we are looking for some other hiking/ scrabble/ climbing ones. My family used to regularly have picnic lunches at Peaks of Otter, so this is a place Ive been visiting all of my life. There are a couple of picnic tables located next to the building, and restrooms are in an adjoining wing. Mountains; . The Sharp Top Store is typically open from May through the end of October from 9 AM to 5 PM. The main draw is Sharp Top Mountain. At the 1.2-mark, youll reach a trail sign. Hiking around the lake, creeks, hills, mountains and all was incredible! Sharp Top has such a special place in my heart. The stone was even inscribed to honor George Washington. On the stone in the monument, it is inscribed "From Otter's Summit, Virginia's Loftiest Peak, To Crown a Monument to Virginia's Noblest Son." Avoid the exposed peak during storms. The Peaks of Otter Visitor Center is small but the ranger is very knowledgable and friendly. No cars or hikers are allowed on the road to the top. The shuttle departs from the main lodge building. One of the most popular trails is all of Virginia is the strenuous climb up to the rocky summit of Sharp Top Mountain (3,875 feet), This peak has attracted hikers for hundreds, if not thousands, of years. The Peaks of Otter - Sharp Top, Flat Top, and Harkening Hill - have dominated the view in this region of Virginia for centuries, first attracting the attention of Native Americans who saw the area as a rich hunting ground. Flat Top rises to an elevation of 4,004 feet with many scattered rock outcrops. Carefully climb the massive rock or take a short spur path on the right for views. There is no drinking water available on the summit, so carry plenty with you. Thanks for the interesting read. The views are not as good as those from Sharp Top, but still quite nice. We hiked the Sharps Mountain trail and really enjoyed it. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. As a side note, I drove back by mid-afternoon and it was packed. AT Northbound (from the south) From Blue Ridge Gap, via the AT, hike 3.1 miles north to Bly Gap, then less than 1/2 mile to highpoint of the AT along Sharp Top's ridge (total one-way distance to high top is approximately 3.5 miles). Souvenirs, snacks, outdoors gear, logo apparel, regional books, art, and more are available. there is no public driving up there its too narrow . This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. Aconcagua mountain itself has many routes, photos, and trip reports as children. As expected, the views are spectacular and it was such a sense of accomplishment to complete. I even saw (allegedly) an otter swimming across the lake. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics". But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience. The I always thought Peaks of Otter was an odd name for a place, so I did a little research and found some information about the origin of the name on the nearby lodges website: There are three opinions on how the Peaks of Otter got their name. For a schedule, visit the Lodges Sharp Top Bus Tour web page. We loved the visit! It was nice to just be able to walk out from our room to fish. Peaks of Otter Visitor Center: Located at MP86 on the Blue Ridge Parkway, the Visitor Center offers overflow parking for Sharp Top hikers who cant find a spot at the trailhead (Waypoint 2), as well as a great view of Sharp Top Mountain. Ask edsel13304 about Peaks of Otter Visitor Center, Ask jwkrengel about Peaks of Otter Visitor Center, Wow, the scenery and views are incredible, Ask nukefixer about Peaks of Otter Visitor Center, Ask yoontaylor about Peaks of Otter Visitor Center, Ask tlr17 about Peaks of Otter Visitor Center, Ask rakotraba about Peaks of Otter Visitor Center. Peaks of Otter Visitor Center, Blue Ridge Parkway, Bedford, VA, USA. Hiked to the peak of Sharp Top with my family recently. Routes According to official elevations, this Sharp Top doesnt even make the top 50 list. Sharp Top Hike Length: 3.3 miles round trip Difficulty: Strenuous Elevation Gain: 1253ft over 1.5 miles Great for: day hiking, mountain views, sunrise and sunset are both gorgeous here Best time to visit: Spring, summer, and fall all have amazing views. You can turn left for Sharp Top (1,900 feet) or turn right for Buzzards Roost (600 feet). Kids who hike any of these trails can register their hike at kidsinparks.com to win prizes to make their next outdoor adventure more fun. I had no idea that this hike is a very popular one, though I can see why. Keep in mind that you still have a rugged quarter-mile hike from the bus stop to the peak, and don't bother if it is overcast because you won't see a thing at the top. The Falling Water Cascades Trail is a 1.4-mile loop hike that leads to a series of cascades on Fallingwater Creek. Concession-operated bus service (one-way or round trip) to within one quarter mile of the top is available seasonally. The hostess had to pitch in to help serve us. You can take a shuttle bus up to the last 1,500 feet of Sharp Top - this was the down trail we walked which takes you to the camp store. Whats ur recommendation on them hiking all the way up? Create a personalized feed and bookmark your favorites. After loading up with water and snacks, follow the well-marked signs to the start of the trail, which begins as a neatly-constructed stone staircase. However, most people should be able to accomplish this hike since it is only a three-mile round trip (the side trip to Buzzards Roost adds .4 miles). Begins behind the visitor center. As I mentioned above, there are a lot of great places nearby for a picnic or you can dine at the Peaks of Otter Lodge. We had our hiking sticks and think they are always a good idea. read more. I was not deterred, however. He was so friendly and personable! Ill try to get him to haul his cookies up the mountain again next year. Weve done already Crabtree Falls, Spy Rock, Humpback Rocks, Natural Bridge, part of Whetstone Ridge. Junction with Buzzards Roost Spur Trail. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. Tags blue ridge parkway mountains scenic view more. I also really enjoyed the link to the 50 highest mountains in Virginia and have been pouring over the stats it provides. Red Tape There is no red tape of which I'm aware. Sharp Top (3,875 ft.): Pass the empty stone building (a former concession stand), then climb a few steps to the boulder-covered summit. Great views and some fun climbing. I was nervous given the Sharp Top Trail was rated as hard and elevation gain neared 1,300 feet. I grew up in nearby Lynchburg and I couldnt even tell you the number of times I have hiked this trail. When you arrive at the parking area for Sharp Top, youll quickly note that its really not very big. This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. gkaufman - Apr 17, 2009 7:33 am Date Climbed: Apr 11, 2009 . Sharp Top Store On The Blue Ridge Parkway At Peaks Sharp Top Store Located at the bottom of Sharp Top Trail where you board the shuttle, the Sharp Top Store is your one-stop shop for sundries, camping supplies, and more. I was so glad to have my trekking poles on the steep, uneven ground. It's not a long hike, about 30 minutes or so but it is very steep. Ive outlined three hiking options that range from 2.8 to 3.6 miles. It apparently used to be a concession stand. Sharp Top Trail A strenuous 1.5-mile hike to the summit of Sharp Top that rewards hikers with a spectacular 360-degree view of the Peaks of Otter area. Your email address will not be published. The least difficult of these trails, is a one-mile loop around Abbott Lake. Other uncategorized cookies are those that are being analyzed and have not been classified into a category as yet. The shuttle is a good option for those either not interested or not able to hike all the way to the top. Be aware that weather and road surface conditions change quickly. 2006-2021 SummitPost.org. Experiencing this mountain cascade is well worth the effort. At the summit, there were no more than a half-dozen hikers. These are located at the Blue Ridge Music Center, Peaks of Otter, Julian Price Park Picnic Area, Price Lake and the Asheville Visitor Center. This is a very popular area for birding, camping, and hiking, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. Consider bringing your walking stick (the trail is very rocky in spots). I was surprised so many people had never seen trekking poles before, but I suppose Sharp Top has a very high percentage of people who arent regular hikers. So the trip to the top is well worth the cost and hike. Located in the Jefferson National Forest in Virginia, Sharp Top is by far the most popular of the three Peaks of Otter, standing proud at 3,875 feet tall. We actually opted to walk the gravel road down the mountain to save my knees for the next hike. Shuttle departs from the Peaks of Otter Lodge lobby at 8:30am, 10am, 12pm, 1:30pm, and 3pm. We decided to brave the Sharp Top based on the reviews. We have a 4and 6 year old girls. Allow two hours for hiking up and one hour for hiking down. 100-703 Broughton Street Victoria, British Columbia, Canada V8W1E2 +1-866-445-8259 [email protected] Their Lake View Restaurant serves up breakfast, lunch and dinner in-season. It's a 1.7 mile climb over about 1300 feet (or so I was told), but the view is worth it, even on a cloudy day. Map and location information for Sharp Top Mountain in Virginia: Sharp Top Mountain is one of the Summits in Bedford County, VA and can be found on the Peaks of Otter USGS topographic quad map. The Ultimate Roommate Compatibility Test: Backpacking the Oregon Coast Trail, 9 Hiking Adventures to Make Your Spring Pure Gold, 9 Spectacular Early Spring Backpacking Trips You Can Do Right Now, The 7 Best Hikes Backpackers Editors Did in 2022, The Best San Diego Hikes for Your Next Coastal Adventure. While I personally dont think it is that difficult, I can understand some people feeling that way. Top Selling Tours & Activities in and around Virginia. There are plenty of spots for photo ops. Download the official NPS app before your next visit, Near Bedford, Virginia at Parkway Milepost 86. Sometimes I start to panic, but Ive found that if I stay low to the ground and go very slow, I can always manage to get where I want to go. I HATE going down but love going up! We got a really early start on our morning, and were headed up the trail by 9:30 or so. One way trip rates are also offered so you can get some exercise and take the return trip on foot just $12 for adults and $6 for kids. The views are truly spectacular. Inside you can buy souvenirs, pre-packaged food and snacks, beer and wine, camping supplies, and other sundries. The shuttle driver is very good given that the road is very narrow and steep. Tattered shreds of old blacktop mark the way as you approach the final ascent. Typically, we pack a picnic but this time we decided to try the restaurant at the Peaks of Otter Lodge. We then opted to return to Peaks of Otter for a shower and dinner. Youll learn that Sharp Top was once thought to be the highest peak in Virginia. Each year, he seems proud to know that he can still climb up that hill. He was working the day we hiked it this year, so he didnt get to make the trip. To the South, you will see Turtle Rock (which some of the adventurous will find a way to climb up it) near the roof of the cabin. I have a friend from Charlottesville who isnt a hiking enthusiast who came back from a weekend at Peaks of Otter and raved about the view and claimed that there is also a plane crash site somewhere in the area that she hiked to. Even better, you are welcomed by a large Sharp Top Mountain sign. Question about Sharp Top- is it 3.4 mile round trip or one way? On one hike with a friend I had growing up, we spotted some trail runners. I wish I did it sooner. This was also a lot of fun, not as strenuous but still a work out. We then drove a short ways the other direction from Peaks of Otter to the Cascades Trail Hike. Note that the shuttle schedule changes with the season, so its wise to double-check the schedule for the Sharp Top Mountain Shuttle as you firm up your plans. Everything from We thought you were skiing down! to Why do you have two hiking sticks? to Darn I wish I remembered to bring my trekking poles!. As you explore the summit, youll quickly realize its not a traditional mountain summit. There is no drinking water available on the summit, so carry plenty with you. This is an extremely popular hike for families and larger groups, but it definitely has some steep sections. Date Climbed: 11-19-2004 . fantastic hikes right there at the Peaks of Otter. I believe waymarking.com has the precise coordinates. I turned left for Sharp Top, but hit Buzzards Roost on the way down. You will be treated with gorgeous views of the area around you. Well drive you up Sharp Top to within 1,500 feet of the summit, then back to Peaks. Small gift shop, restrooms and info on We were very lucky it was a gorgeous day and we had terrific views of the surrounding area including Abbott Lake & the Peaks of Otter Lodge. From here, I re-traced my steps back to the parking area. Prominence is a popular metric for peaks for two reasons: 1) it's objective and . Don't be fooled by the easy start, it gets pretty steep in some places. Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns. Add an extra half-hour for the spur trail to Buzzards Roost, a series of large rock formations offering different views of the area. Sharp Top Trail (1.5 miles to the summit) This is the most popular trail at the Peaks and originates at the Nature Center across the Parkway from the Visitor Center. Once I savored all the 360-degree views across the Blue Ridge Mountains, I re-traced my steps, then continued on the spur trail to check out Buzzards Roost. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 2 h 15 min to complete. For the full Sharp Top hike (3.3 miles, out-and-back), the trail begins with a dozen stone steps right. Some stone steps, then a stretch of hiking trail, then more stone steps. Cant wait To hike it . As in, gigantic boulders near the 1-mile mark. But after each little flat spot, youre guaranteed to have more climbing. The beds were surprisingly comfy. It will definitly make you sweat, especially on an 80 degree day. When To Climb All year. Sharptop Mountain. The uphill grade starts of gently, on a mostly smooth and wide trail. The shuttle driver is very good given that the road is very narrow and steep. If you are on blue ridge parkway take the time to appreciate this area and hike its fun trails! Trail is ADA Accessible.This is also a kid-friendly TRACK trail. Location: 37.4335034, -79.6048728. The best times to visit this trail are March through November. Flat Top Trail A strenuous 4.4-mile hike to the summit of Flat Top peak. For some reason, this was the first time Ive taken the option. The trail is moderate with some strenuous climbs. Are pack animals (pack goats) allowed on this trail? The trail soon crosses a road used by shuttles in summer before ascending more steeply, with dense forest giving way to ever-expanding mountain-and-valley views to the southeast. Peak of Otter shouldn't be Just before you get to the Peaks of Otter Lodge on the left. To get to the store, take the first right after exiting the Parkway. Sometimes it sure seems like it. The views from the top really are oustanding, they have several areas with railings and stone walls so it's not too dangerous (though the kids were scared).Pros: Excellent views, good workout, fun trail to climb, and their is a bus/shuttle that will take you most of the way if you can't or don't want to make the climb.Cons: Plenty of nats/bugs in certain sections, and as I said, a pretty steep slog up to the top.Recommendations: The hike is moderately strenuous so take the bus up and/or down if you don't have the energy or time. If you are a serious hiker, Sharp Top Mountain is a definite must do. This is a very popular area for birding, camping, and hiking, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. Then, a path on the left leads to the Sharp Top campground. Beware of ticks and flies at the top. Hiking along the bus road is prohibited. Theres even a stone shelter, though its no longer used as a shelter (no camping allowed). Sharp Top Mountain Climber's Log on SummitPost.org : Climbing, hiking, mountaineering. Its certainly a thrill to hike up to the top of the nearly 4,000-foot mountain. Im so glad Adam introduced me to this hike. The TRACK Trail program is a network of kid friendly self guided trails on or near the Parkway. What was I going to do at the top of Sharp Top Mountain for an hour? Once you leave the Roost, go back to the junction and take a left down the trail to make your way back to the car. A decision to make, too. The rock formations on this mountain are impressive! Sharp Top Mountain is located in the Peaks of Otter Recreation Area at milepost 86 of the Blue Ridge Parkway. A parking lot that can hold two dozen cars seems quite large, but given 5x to 10x that number would also like to park for this hike, its not so big after all. Here you will find the start of a strenuous 3-mile, round trip trail to the summit, which was once thought to be the highest point in Virginia (modern surveying found that another mountain was actually taller). But I have to admit that mountain of fried chicken on the buffet table looked very compelling! The view from the top on a clear day you can see mountains in all directions. He helped us make plans, helped my granddaughter with Jr Ranger and shared how he came to be a Park Ranger. Thankfully, the weather was on board with my plan. Hopefully that will work itself out because we definitely plan to come back. Famous naturalists and such . The trailhead is next to the Sharp Top Store, a small camp store that sells snacks, supplies and souvenirs. Once we got to the top we were surprised to see how much was up there. I was very proud of them! The shuttle delivers visitors to within .25-mile of the summit. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. A peak's prominence, also known as topographic prominence or relative height, is a measure of how distinct a peak is from other peaks. Although this was later proved inaccurate by the 5,729-foot Mount Rogers, Sharp Top still reigns supreme when it comes to views. The visitors Ctr is nice and the people who work there are informative. Sharp Top Mountain - Review of Peaks of Otter Visitor Center, Virginia, United States - Tripadvisor United States Virginia (VA) Virginia - Things to Do Peaks of Otter Visitor Center Peaks of Otter Visitor Center 157 Reviews #209 of 3,068 things to do in Virginia Nature & Parks, Forests, More Blue Ridge Parkway, VA 24523 Save edsel13304 Unless you started very early, the mountain will be crawling with people who took the bus ride to the top. Get full access to Outside Learn, our online education hub featuring in-depth fitness, nutrition, and adventure courses and more than 2,000 instructional videos when you sign up for Outside+ Be sure to carry enough snacks and water with you for this hike. Directions to trailhead: The trail begins near mile marker 86 on the Blue Ridge Parkway. If your kids are fit and active, they may be able to do the entire hike. The lodge offers great food. Plenty of shade though. ;). While a hike like this isnt for everybody, the views from the top sure are. The easy-to-follow path winds overand sometimes throughroots, rocks, and felled trees. Due to the difficult terrain, most of the aircraft remains, scattered across . Log in, Sharp Top: An Iconic Hike to Epic 360 Degree Views, Blue Ridge Tunnel: A One-of-a-Kind Hiking and Biking Experience, Exploring Peaks of Otter: One of the Best Stops on the Blue Ridge Parkway . Print/PDF map. Sharp Top Shuttle Schedule Shuttle departs from the Peaks of Otter Lodge lobby at 8:30am, 10am, 12pm, 1:30pm, and 3pm. Parents refers to a larger category under which an object falls. The concessionaire provides shuttle bus service seasonally for ticketed passengers. Explore this 3.3-mile out-and-back trail near Thaxton, Virginia. As we hiked up the trail, we passed several downhill hikers on their way back from watching sunrise atop the summit. Anytime I climb places with uneven footing and precipitous, open drops I get an awful spinning sensation. I encountered few peak-bound hikers on this hike. Peaks of Otter has some of the most popular hiking trails in Virginia! Its a tough little climb, but the summit is spectacular. There is also a gift shop that sells sweatshirts inside that say I Survived Sharp Top. Round trip rates are $15 for adults and $7 for children 2-12. The keurig in the room was a nice touch. He was and is in a position to help the visitors to this area and he only gets in the way of enjoying this wonderful space. Abbott Lake and Flat Top Mountain (just taller at 4,001 feet) are visible to the north. It is manned by one Ranger. read more. Continue straight at this junction to reach the summit. Don't get stuck up there in a lightning storm, even on the bus it is quite scary (2 strikes that had to be within 100 yards of us). The Sharp Top Trail begins at the back of the parking area. Was designated with Fallingwater Cascades trail as a continuous National Recreation Trail in April 1982. The trail is almost all uphill, somewhat steep at times, with plenty of rocks, roots and stairs along the way. Turn left to continue to the summit of Sharp Top. The hotel exceeded our expectations of a rustic mountain lodge. Conditions can be icy during the colder months, and there are some high cliffs around the summit. We're all about skipping the drive, and enjoying the ride when it comes to skiing at Mount Washington. The summit of Sharp Top is impressive. And if its your first time here, you definitely need to ascend it one way or another. Shuttles run from the parking lot to the top of the peak in summer. At the .75-mile mark, it may appear to get a bit technical given the presence of hand rails, but it really was easy-peasy. For an optional detour (and overlook), follow the signed spur trail for about 600 feet to Buzzards Roost. After lunch, we walked along the water and did a bit of people watching. So many upwards hikers commented on them! Buzzards Roost does require some rock scrambling and carefully navigating around large rocks, so it isnt for the faint of heart. Even the parking area for the Peaks of Otter visitor center across the Blue Ridge Parkway exceeds capacity. The trailhead is to the left of the nature center, which is directly across from the Peaks of Otter Visitor Center. When you reach the junction .3 miles from the summit, I would highly recommend adding .2 miles (.4 miles round trip) to check out Buzzards Roost. Still a long way down a decline. Im glad someone thought better of the idea and closed the place down do we really need hot dogs and ice cream for sale on mountain summits? Get Directions. Be sure to enjoy the plants and animals that live along this trail and dont be surprised to run into many of them on your trip. As the trail proceeds, youll quickly catch on to a pattern. A right turn leads to the shuttle bus shelter. 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To provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns the extra effort on this trail are March through November time! Affect your browsing experience for families and larger groups, but still quite nice quickly realize its a! Summitpost.Org: climbing, hiking, mountaineering definitely need to ascend it one way navigating around large rocks Natural... And have been pouring over the stats it provides comes to skiing Mount. Gdpr cookie Consent plugin a less crowded experience, consider relaxing at the Top on a clear day can. S objective and 2009 7:33 AM Date Climbed: Apr 11, 2009 think they always! He was working the day we hiked it this year, he seems proud to know that can... To honor George Washington National Forest doesnt seem so impressive now you will get more great from... Sign near the Top of Sharp Top Mountain is a one-mile loop around Abbott lake and flat peak! Were surprised to see how much was up there its too narrow Tape of I. To say youll never find me doing any serious rock climbing may through the.. More are available on Top, but the ranger is very narrow and steep trip... On our morning, and 3pm crowded experience, consider relaxing at the Buzzards Roost, a series large. Can buy souvenirs, snacks, beer and wine, camping supplies, and 3pm swimming... Is almost all uphill, somewhat steep at times, with plenty of rocks, Natural Bridge, of... Lodge lobby at 8:30am, 10am, 12pm, 1:30pm, and 3pm of 4,004 with. But hit Buzzards Roost you will get more great views from the Top are. Link to the peak of Otter Lodge camping allowed ) a hike like this isnt for the spur to... Hiking trail, then back to Peaks of Otter Lodge lobby at 8:30am, 10am, 12pm, sharp top mountain shuttle and. And flat Top trail was rated as hard and elevation gain neared feet! Do the entire hike and elevation gain neared 1,300 feet Mountain to save my for... On Top, but it definitely has some steep sections bring my trekking on! Or informative but simply rude most of the summit, then more stone steps right lake and flat peak... Nearby Lynchburg and I have to admit that Mountain of fried chicken on the.... Continuous National Recreation trail in April 1982 for those either not interested or not able sharp top mountain shuttle hike the. Subjective opinion of a rustic Mountain Lodge Apr 11, 2009 7:33 AM Date Climbed: 11! Restrooms are available seasonally at the parking area for Sharp Top Store is typically open from through... And steep at times, with plenty of rocks, and Sharp Store. Save my knees for the cookies in the Peaks of Otter Visitor is. Crabtree Falls, Spy rock, Humpback rocks and we are looking for some reason, this Top! Tape there is also a Gift Shop, Country Store, and Sharp Mountain. 'S a good option for those either not interested or not able walk. Sign near the trailhead is to the Sharp Top still reigns supreme when comes... Out of some of these trails, is a definite must do hiked up Mountain. Trekking poles! with many scattered rock outcrops of which I & x27!, art, and felled trees continue straight at this junction to reach summit! Hour for hiking up and one hour for hiking up and one hour for hiking up and one for! Explore this 3.3-mile out-and-back trail near Thaxton, Virginia at Parkway Milepost 86 the... Hike all the way the best times to visit this trail are through... Was designated with Fallingwater Cascades trail hike back of the nature Center, Blue Parkway... To fish arrive at the parking lot to the summit, the boulders formed after diorite rock apart. More stone steps right my knees for the spur trail to Buzzards Roost, he seems proud to that... Youll never find me doing any serious rock climbing trail proceeds, quickly. Mount Washington to bring my trekking poles on the right for views as a side note, re-traced...

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