Sharp Top Trail Sounds Scary, But It’s One of the Best Hikes in Virginia

Certain Virginia hikes sound downright intimidating—Devil's Bathtub, Buzzard Rock, and Dragon's Tooth are just a few examples. But names can be a bit misleading. Sure, those aforementioned trails are best for seasoned hikers, but they're almost always matched with awesome views and unforgettable scenery along the way. That's certainly true of Sharp Top Trail, a seemingly scary hiking trail in Virginia. Without having visited, you'd likely picture ominous drop-offs and a razor-like mountain summit. Happily, the terrain is much more approachable. The top does look rather pointy from afar, but it really doesn't feel dangerous once you're up there.

Why Is It Called "Sharp Top" Mountain?

Compared to gentler, time-worn mountain peaks in Virginia, Sharp Top stands out considerably. Its pointed peak is easy to identify, and in the 1800s, Thomas Jefferson declared it the tallest mountain on the East Coast, giving it quite a lofty reputation. In fact, there's a stone block within the Washington Monument that was quarried directly from Sharp Top Mountain. Today, we know the mountain isn't the tallest in the region—or even the state—but it's still among the most famous hiking trails in Virginia.

What the Hike Is Actually Like

Hiking Sharp Top is by no means easy, but it isn't exactly intimidating either. It's three miles out-and-back with some serious elevation gain as you approach the summit, but that's about the worst of it. The trailhead can be reached via the Blue Ridge Parkway near Milepost 85.9. From there, the pathway cuts through hardwood forests before ascending over rocky terrain. You'll take switchbacks as you climb up, up, and up, but the trail is well-maintained and easy to follow. Before long, you'll begin to spot glimpses of those surrounding mountains that highlight just how far up you've climbed, and this will hopefully give you that boost of motivation to keep going.

And if you do, a lovely reward is waiting for you! The top of the mountain, which may have looked sharp from the bottom, is actually a series of rocky outcroppings leading to a 360-degree view. On a clear day, it competes for the best view in the state.

What To Know Before You Go

The Peaks of Otter area of the Blue Ridge Parkway, where Sharp Top is located, is notoriously crowded in the fall, so the dedicated paved lot can fill up quickly. If you want to avoid the crowds, try a weekday morning or a different time of year. During the operating season, there are restrooms available at the trailhead. There's no fee for parking or for accessing the hike. In terms of preparation, be sure to wear sturdy, supportive hiking boots and pack plenty of water. You'll also want to check on the Blue Ridge Parkway conditions and closures before heading out.

So, to summarize, Sharp Top may seem like a scary hiking trail in Virginia—that is, until you actually hike it. You'll certainly have to work a bit for the overlook, but once you get there, it'll be a view of a lifetime. Looking for something a bit more mellow? You can still admire Sharp Top Mountain from a distance along the Abbott Lake Trail, a flat, one-mile loop that can be accessed from Milepost 86.