Charlottesville365; Hiking at Humpback Rock

Charlottesville is surrounded by hundreds of beautiful trails and hiking paths, and is very near an entrance to the Appalachian Trail. One of the most popular hiking routes is up Humpback Rock, which is a fairly short hike but that culminates in breath-taking views across much of Charlottesville, VA!

Humpback Overlook is at scenic milepost 5.8, and has a beautiful view all across town, but if you’re adventurous enough to climb Humpback Rock, you will have a chance to see why Blue Ridge Outdoor Magazine Readers voted Humpback Rock as one of their favorite parts all across the Blue Ridge!

This quick hike is very dog-friendly, and you’ll often even see families with children making the trek to the top- be sure to wear cool clothes and bring some water for what is sure to be a fun day!

The climb can feel rigorous, although it’s fairly short in length to get all the way to the top, and enjoy beautiful views across all of Charlottesville, VA as far as Monticello!  The descent will take about 20 minutes from peak down to the parking lot dedicated to Humpback Rocks at the bottom of the climb.

Details from visitcharlottesville.com;

Humpback Rock Visitor Center

Offers a wonderful variety for the serious and casual hiker. Humpback Rocks can be reached by following the Appalachian Trail south .7 miles from Humpback Gap to the spur trail leading 800 feet to the rocks. This is a strenuous trail, but hikers are rewarded with spectacular views of the Rockfish and Shenandoah Valleys. Back on the Appalachian Trail, continue south another mile to the summit of Humpback Mountain with views of the ridges to the north. Hikers may continue to follow the Trail for .5 miles, passing along the top of a cliff with views to the south and east before descending 1.2 miles to a blue blaze trail. This trail leads .3 miles into the Humpback Rocks Picnic Area. The distance between Humpback Gap and the Humpback Rocks Picninc Area is 3.6 miles.

Directions:  Blue Ridge Parkway at Milepost 5.8