Paine Run, Riprap, and Moormans River Loop

This 28.9-mile loop follows a three-day, two-night backcountry itinerary from the Paine Run boundary access on Route 661. It climbs Paine Run to the Appalachian Trail, crosses the Riprap ridge, descends into the Moormans river valleys, and returns by Blackrock Spur, Trayfoot Mountain, and Paine Run. The itinerary’s published total ranges from 27.2 to 29.2 miles because campsite locations vary. The mapped line represents a half-mile campsite spur on Riprap and its retrace. About 22 hours of moving time is a planning estimate across the three days; camping and rest time are extra.

Follow Paine Run Trail uphill to the Appalachian Trail, then head south to Riprap Trail. The itinerary places the first camp somewhere within the next mile, so this day is roughly 6.2 to 7.2 miles depending on the site. It recommends collecting water from Paine Run before leaving the stream. The distance to camp is flexible, and the mapped half-mile spur is only a representative choice.

Retrace the Riprap spur, continue south on the Appalachian Trail, and descend Turk Branch to the South Fork Moormans route. The trail then leaves the park and follows roads toward the crossing near Charlottesville Reservoir. After crossing, climb upstream along the North Fork Moormans route and look for a second camp beyond Big Branch. This is the longest day, about 11.6 to 13.6 miles, with repeated changes between trail and road.

Continue north along the North Fork Moormans route until it climbs back to the Appalachian Trail. Follow the trail north to Blackrock Spur, then take Trayfoot Mountain Trail and Paine Run Trail back to the starting boundary access. Expect about 8.4 to 9.4 miles. The written directions include gravel-road and stream-crossing transitions; follow the marked route rather than trying to shortcut between valleys.

The Riprap section passes the distinctive Calvary Rocks and Chimney Rock formations, with views across the gorge and a rocky ridgeline. The backcountry itinerary also mentions swimming holes and an optional waterfall side trip; water levels vary, and the waterfall detour is not part of the mapped line. Expect a strenuous mountain route with long climbs and descents. Its directions describe the South and North Fork Moormans crossings as potentially knee- to waist-deep in spring or after heavy rain. All available water is from streams; carry a treatment method and do not assume year-round flow.

Start and finish at the Paine Run boundary access at the end of Route 661. The marked access crosses private land; stay on the trail, and do not approach from Route 614, where there is no public access. The boundary turnaround holds only about three cars and is unavailable to park on weekdays from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. during the school year for school buses. A park entrance fee applies even when hiking in from the boundary, and both nights require a paid backcountry permit. Dogs are allowed on this route on a physical leash no longer than six feet. The current trip listing still includes this itinerary, but its detailed turn-by-turn sheet dates to 2006; check current route signs, closures, and river conditions before setting out.