This Scenic Virginia Hike Is Even Better in the Winter

I've always been a fan of winter hiking. Sure, it can require a lot of bundling and braving of the elements, but the payoff, in my mind, is always worth it. That being said, you don't necessarily want to hike just any trail in the winter; it should be a good one. Fortunately, I've done a bit of research for you so that when you're ready to tackle a winter trail in Virginia, you'll know where to go: Rocky Knob Recreation Area.

Hugging the Blue Ridge Parkway, Rocky Knob Recreation Area is an expansive 4,800-acre park home to over 15 miles of hiking trails. It's situated roughly between Mileposts 167 and 174 near Floyd, Virginia. Compared to other Blue Ridge Parkway hikes in Virginia, it's considerably less crowded, and that's especially true in the wintertime.

Surveying for the park began in 1935, approximately 200 years after the first European settlers arrived. At this point, the topography of the region was pastoral, offering sweeping views of the surrounding mountains. A team of builders known as the Emergency Relief Administration (ERA) began construction on a picnic area and a rustic and Adirondack-style trail shelter near the Rocky Knob summit. The same shelter can be seen today, and it offers a breathtaking view of the ridgeline.

After several more decades of work, surveying, and trail-building, the recreational area was complete. Today, it serves as a hidden-away natural area, where the trails, picnic areas, and campground are rarely overcrowded. That's especially true compared to the nearby Mabry Mill, one of the most photographed spots on the Blue Ridge Parkway.

If you have a few hours to spare on a winter day, it's hard to imagine a better hike than Rocky Knob Trail. This 2.3-mile trail is rated as easy, although you will climb nearly 500 feet in elevation, so sturdy shoes are a must. You can park near the Rocky Knob Campground and then cross the road to find the trailhead.

The trail begins by winding through beautiful rolling farmland before entering the woods and beginning an uphill climb. At the junction, head right, and you'll quickly reach the iconic trail shelter at the top of the overlook. You can also (carefully) descend a little way down from the shelter to reach a rocky ledge with another breathtaking view. Interestingly, the trail shelter used to be located along the Appalachian Trail before the thru-hike was rerouted west.

It's easy to see why this trail would be popular in the summer and spring, especially considering all the wild mountain laurel in bloom, but I think winter has its own charms. You may have the trail to yourself, for one, and you'll also enjoy better visibility thanks to all the bare trees. Needless to say, this is one Blue Ridge Parkway hike that belongs on your bucket list.

Looking for another top-notch winter adventure? Learn more about why we love Stony Man Trail in Shenandoah National Park this time of year.

Feeling inspired? Try planning your own trip using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.