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Three Ridges Wilderness Loop

Routes

Hiking trails & Routes

Three Ridges Wilderness Loop

Hard

4.6

(2719)

16,045

hikers

Three Ridges Wilderness Loop

Q: Where is the trailhead for the Three Ridges Wilderness Loop, and is parking available?

The primary trailhead for the Three Ridges Wilderness Loop is at Reed's Gap, located off the Blue Ridge Parkway. Parking is available there, but it can fill up quickly, especially on weekends.

Q: Is the Three Ridges Wilderness Loop dog-friendly?

Yes, the Three Ridges Wilderness Loop is generally dog-friendly. However, given the challenging and rugged terrain, ensure your dog is accustomed to strenuous hikes. Always keep your dog on a leash and practice Leave No Trace principles.

Q: What is the best time of year to hike the Three Ridges Wilderness Loop?

Spring (late April for wildflowers) and fall offer the most pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can be hot and humid, while winter brings potential for snow and ice, making the already challenging terrain even more difficult. Always check weather conditions before you go.

Q: Do I need a permit or pay an entrance fee for the Three Ridges Wilderness Loop or the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests?

No, permits are not required for hiking or camping on the Three Ridges Wilderness Loop, and there are no entrance fees for accessing this part of the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests.

Q: Is the Three Ridges Wilderness Loop suitable for beginners or families?

The Three Ridges Wilderness Loop is considered a difficult and strenuous hike, featuring significant elevation changes and rugged terrain. It is not recommended for beginners or young children. Hikers should have a good level of fitness and experience with challenging trails.

Q: What kind of terrain can I expect on the Three Ridges Wilderness Loop?

Expect rugged and challenging terrain with constant, steep ascents and descents. There are very few flat sections. The Mau-Har Trail portion is particularly rough, with rock scrambles and eroded areas, while the Appalachian Trail sections, though generally better graded, can still be rocky. Good footwear with rock plates is highly recommended.

Q: What are the main points of interest and views along the route?

The loop offers rewarding views and natural features. Highlights include panoramic mountain vistas from overlooks like Hanging Rock and Chimney Rock Overlook . The Mau-Har Trail also features several waterfalls and pristine pools along Campbell Creek.

Q: Can I backpack overnight on the Three Ridges Wilderness Loop, and are there shelters?

Yes, the Three Ridges Wilderness Loop is an excellent overnight backpacking trip. There are abundant campsites and two shelters available on a first-come, first-served basis: Maupin Field Shelter and Harpers Creek Shelter , which is conveniently located roughly halfway through the loop.

Q: Is there water available along the trail?

Yes, there are natural water sources along the trail, particularly along the Mau-Har Trail section near Campbell Creek. However, always filter or treat any water collected from natural sources. It's advisable to carry sufficient water, especially during drier periods.

Q: Does the Three Ridges Wilderness Loop connect with other well-known trails?

Yes, a significant portion of the loop utilizes sections of the iconic Appalachian Trail and the Mau-Har Trail, offering hikers a taste of these famous routes.

07:56

21.5km

1,020m

Hiking

Prepare for a demanding hike on the Three Ridges Wilderness Loop, a difficult route that covers 13.4 miles (21.5 km) and climbs 3336 feet (1017 metres) in elevation. You can expect this journey to take around 7 hours and 56 minutes. As you traverse the rugged terrain, you will pass through lush forests and encounter steep ascents, but the effort is rewarded with sweeping views of the Blue Ridge Mountains from overlooks like Chimney Rock. The trail also features the scenic Mau-Har section, which follows Campbell Creek with its refreshing waterfalls and pools.

No permits are needed for hiking or camping on this loop, making it easy to plan your trip. The trailhead is conveniently located at Reed's Gap, directly off the Blue Ridge Parkway, where you will find parking available. Given the challenging nature of the route, with its steep climbs and descents, it is essential to wear sturdy and appropriate footwear to ensure a safe and comfortable experience on the trail.

This loop offers a classic wilderness adventure within the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests, combining parts of the famous Appalachian Trail with the Mau-Har Trail. The diverse landscape includes not only high mountain views but also tranquil creek-side paths. Keep an eye out for wildflowers if you visit in late April, adding another layer of natural beauty to this memorable and strenuous outing.

Last updated: April 23, 2026

Tips

Your route passes through protected areas

Please check local regulations for:

Three Ridges Wilderness

Blue Ridge Parkway

George Washington National Forest

Waypoints

Start point

Parking

Get Directions

5.76 km

Hanging Rock

Highlight • Viewpoint

Hanging Rock is commonly referred to as the best viewpoint in the Three Ridges Wilderness. The rocky outcrop peers over the wilderness area along with Lesesne State Forest. The Blue Ridge Parkway offers easy access into the wilderness, but the trails are steep, rocky, and not for the faint of heart. There is a loop that travels around the entire wilderness, but a day hike to Hanging Rock is more popular for people who aren't looking to take on such a big challenge.

Tip by

9.14 km

Chimney Rock Overlook

Highlight • Viewpoint

Chimney Rock is the final main overlook on the Three Ridges loop. The overlook is pointed back towards Hanging Rock and Meadow Mountain, but it is a bit more overgrown than the Hanging Rock viewpoint. If you are looking for a place to make camp for the night and are heading south, the Harpers Creek Shelter is not very far away.

Tip by

12.5 km

Harpers Creek Shelter

Highlight • Mountain Hut

The Harpers Creek Shelter area is worth stopping at whether you want to stay the night or not. You have to drop a lot of elevation to get back down to this area, and you can usually find water in the creek if you are needing to refill your bottle. The shelter is up a short spur trail, and there are tent sites near the shelter if you aren't wanting to stay inside the structure.

Tip by

21.5 km

End point

Parking

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

10.8 km

5.47 km

5.17 km

< 100 m

Surfaces

11.0 km

5.17 km

125 m

< 100 m

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Highest point (1,190 m)

Lowest point (520 m)

Weather

Today

Monday 6 July

30°C

19°C

72 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 8.0 km/h

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the trailhead for the Three Ridges Wilderness Loop, and is parking available?

The primary trailhead for the Three Ridges Wilderness Loop is at Reed's Gap, located off the Blue Ridge Parkway. Parking is available there, but it can fill up quickly, especially on weekends.

Is the Three Ridges Wilderness Loop dog-friendly?

Yes, the Three Ridges Wilderness Loop is generally dog-friendly. However, given the challenging and rugged terrain, ensure your dog is accustomed to strenuous hikes. Always keep your dog on a leash and practice Leave No Trace principles.

What is the best time of year to hike the Three Ridges Wilderness Loop?

Spring (late April for wildflowers) and fall offer the most pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can be hot and humid, while winter brings potential for snow and ice, making the already challenging terrain even more difficult. Always check weather conditions before you go.

Do I need a permit or pay an entrance fee for the Three Ridges Wilderness Loop or the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests?

No, permits are not required for hiking or camping on the Three Ridges Wilderness Loop, and there are no entrance fees for accessing this part of the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests.

Is the Three Ridges Wilderness Loop suitable for beginners or families?

The Three Ridges Wilderness Loop is considered a difficult and strenuous hike, featuring significant elevation changes and rugged terrain. It is not recommended for beginners or young children. Hikers should have a good level of fitness and experience with challenging trails.

What kind of terrain can I expect on the Three Ridges Wilderness Loop?

Expect rugged and challenging terrain with constant, steep ascents and descents. There are very few flat sections. The Mau-Har Trail portion is particularly rough, with rock scrambles and eroded areas, while the Appalachian Trail sections, though generally better graded, can still be rocky. Good footwear with rock plates is highly recommended.

What are the main points of interest and views along the route?

The loop offers rewarding views and natural features. Highlights include panoramic mountain vistas from overlooks like Hanging Rock and Chimney Rock Overlook. The Mau-Har Trail also features several waterfalls and pristine pools along Campbell Creek.

Can I backpack overnight on the Three Ridges Wilderness Loop, and are there shelters?

Yes, the Three Ridges Wilderness Loop is an excellent overnight backpacking trip. There are abundant campsites and two shelters available on a first-come, first-served basis: Maupin Field Shelter and Harpers Creek Shelter, which is conveniently located roughly halfway through the loop.

Is there water available along the trail?

Yes, there are natural water sources along the trail, particularly along the Mau-Har Trail section near Campbell Creek. However, always filter or treat any water collected from natural sources. It's advisable to carry sufficient water, especially during drier periods.

Does the Three Ridges Wilderness Loop connect with other well-known trails?

Yes, a significant portion of the loop utilizes sections of the iconic Appalachian Trail and the Mau-Har Trail, offering hikers a taste of these famous routes.

What is the strategic advantage of hiking the loop in a specific direction?

Hiking the loop counter-clockwise means you'll ascend the steepest sections, which can be a strenuous climb. Opting for a clockwise direction involves descending these steep parts, which might be easier on your lungs but can put more strain on your knees. Consider your personal preference for ascents versus descents when planning your route.