We Did the Research, This Is Officially the Most Bizzare Hiking Trail Name in Virginia

Hiking in Virginia can be intimidating enough; our state is home to over 500 Appalachian Trail miles, some of which are notoriously challenging. Then, you have trails with names that will make you think twice before hiking them. One prime example is the Devil's Marbleyard. It's a rather spooky, bizarre trail name, and, as it turns out, it's every bit as challenging as its moniker suggests. But for those brave enough to tackle the climb, a stunning and otherworldly view awaits.

One of the most direct ways to reach Devil's Marbleyard is by taking the Belfast Trail. To start, you'll park in the free designated parking lot. Hikers should note that the trail is small, and because it fills up quickly, many visitors resort to parking along the side of Petites Gap Road. Next, cross the bridge over Elk Creek and head into the woods.

The trail is a 3.3-mile out-and-back trek that's considered quite challenging, especially given the fact that you'll gain 1,300 feet in elevation on your way up. (Read: wear some sturdy hiking boots!) The final half mile of the trail is notoriously hard, mostly because of the handful of false peaks as you ascend to the top. Despite its difficulty, it's one of the most popular hikes in the James River Face Wilderness Area of the George Washington National Forest.

The trail is popular for its stunning views, of course, but it's also got some allure to it. The name Devil's Marbleyard is inspired by the field of boulders you'll find at the top of the mountain. These giant, scattered marble rocks range from the size of small side tables to cars, creating quite a challenging landscape to navigate. As you encounter the boulder field, note that there's no designated "trail" to the top; instead, you'll need to rely on some bouldering and climbing skills.

It's advised to proceed here with extreme caution. That being said, most reviews indicate that the boulders are firmly in place and even offer some good gripping holds. If you don't feel comfortable navigating the boulders, rest assured that you can still enjoy some stunning views without having to complete the rock scramble. Also, if you happen to visit after a heavy rainfall, the boulders will likely be too slippery to navigate safely.

One recent hiker enthusiastically shares why Devil's Marbleyard was such an unexpected find: "Devil's Marbleyard was the biggest surprise of our weekend trip to Virginia. While everything up to the boulder field is typical for the Appalachians, the scramble was phenomenal. If you like bouldering, it doesn't get much better than this on the East Coast."

Have you ever experienced Devil's Marbleyard in Virginia? Are you curious to attempt this challenging yet spectacular hike? If so, be sure to share this article with a hiking buddy and start planning your epic adventure!

If you're looking for something a bit easier, take a look at this easy loop trail with spectacular scenery along the way.