The 3.5-Mile Mary’s Rock Trail Leads Hikers To The Most Spectacular Fall Foliage In Virginia

We've written about fall foliage train rides, fall festivals, and pumpkin patches galore. But still, one of the very best ways to experience fall in Virginia is to get out and hike in it. Today's feature trail is a challenging 3.5-mile route that offers hikers some of the best mountain views -- and spectacular fall foliage -- in the state. Here's more on why you'll want to lace up your hiking boots and explore Mary's Rock Trail in Virginia.

Just a quick drive from Sperryville, Virginia, you'll discover Mary's Rock Trail. It's a popular hike located within Shenandoah National Park.

The closest entrance is the Thornton Gap Entrance. Visitors should note that there's a fee to enter the park.

After a short drive from the entrance, you'll want to look for the parking lot at 31.6 on Skyline Drive. Once there, you'll find information about the trail.

The trek is approximately 3.4 miles out and back, and it's considered fairly challenging. The total elevation gain is about 1,200 feet, so you'll want to plan accordingly.

The trail follows the famed Appalachian Trail, so keep your eyes peeled for the white blazes at A.T. signposts along the way.

Of course, with that much elevation, you might be hiking right into the clouds. But that's an adventure in its own right!

On a crisp fall day, you're likely to see a view like this: absolutely breathtaking and radiant with color.

So, what do you think? Will you be adding this trail to your autumn itinerary?

Have you ever hiked Mary's Rock Trail in Virginia? What did you think of this lovely stretch of the Appalachian Trail? Feel free to share your thoughts with us in the comments below -- we would love to hear from you! And, if you're looking for the perfect home base for your fall excursion, why not stay at this lovely motel overlooking the mountains? Or, if you're looking for an adults-only romantic getaway, Shadow Mountain Escape is another nearby cabin resort that we love!