Chimney Rock

Chimney Rock is a natural outcrop above Shenandoah Valley, reached on the Riprap Trail in Shenandoah’s southern district. Flat-topped rock ledges and a view across the valley are the payoff, but getting there takes a 3.4-mile out-and-back hike with 830 feet of climbing. This is a good choice if you want a moderate walk with rock formations along the way; it isn’t a quick pullout from Skyline Drive.

Start at the Riprap Parking Area at Skyline Drive mile 90. Follow the Appalachian Trail north, then turn left on the Riprap Trail. The path passes a northeast-facing lookout, a talus slope and Calvary Rocks before Chimney Rock appears across the gorge. Turn around there and retrace your route. Allow about 2½ hours. The small lot also serves the longer Riprap Loop.

The flat-topped ledges open onto Shenandoah Valley, with fractured rock in the foreground and the valley beyond. It’s a more focused outlook than a summit panorama: the rocky viewpoint has limited room and the view isn’t a full 360 degrees. For a photo, keep some of the ledge in the frame so the valley view has a sense of its rocky perch.

The geology starts before the viewpoint. A talus slope of loose fallen stone comes before the larger, jumbled formations at Calvary Rocks; then Chimney Rock stands apart on the other side of the gorge. The surrounding Blue Ridge has its rounded shape after a long period of erosion.

The park lists this hike as year-round, with no reservation required; a Shenandoah entrance fee applies. The trail isn’t ADA accessible, and dogs must stay on a leash no longer than six feet. No drinking water or restroom is listed at the Riprap parking area, so bring water for the hike. Check for ticks when you return.