McAfee Knob

Great experience, but need to be prepared for a 4 mile hike that can take 4 to 8 hours. Take plenty of water and snacks as there are no options in the wooded trail. Moderate foot traffic with hikers coming and going, so always someone there including the wildlife.

I did plenty of research on parking situation before I went there it turned out that there were a few open parking spots right at the trailhead when I arrived on a Thursday mid morning. You do not need to be shuttled at least not on weekdays. When I returned to the trailhead after the hike there were even more open spots there. The hike wasn’t too strenuous the first half was kinda flat. I did all the hiking in less than 3 hrs(1.5 hrs up 1.25 hrs down). There were quite some people up there when I got to the top you might want to chill and wait to get your pics taken but you will get them. The views are beautiful.

McAfee Knob has some of the best views this country has to offer in the way of hiking. Be careful if winds are high. This trail offers a true hiking trails as well as an easy fire road route. This trail is part of Virginia's Triple Crown hikes.

This trail was amazing to hike. Pictures can not give it justice. You have to view it in person. The hike itself is a moderate hike. It's all uphill one direction and down the other. The trail is part of the AT (Appalachian Trail). There is an easier/shorter route for the hike if you take the fire road and tie back into the trial. The hike it's self is 3.9 miles one way; to the view point, and 3.9 miles back out. As for parking, it was a bit of struggle at first. We were not aware that the parking lot was still unavailable to park in. There is a switch back side street next to the parking lot. You can park on the shoulder there, but parking fills up fast. There is an option to park off of I-81 exit 140 in the park and ride and take the shuttle up. The shuttle does run hourly, and at this time, it is $10 per person round trip. The trail itself is dog friendly, but I highly recommend watching them when at the peak of McAfee Knob.

Get there early and make the hike before sunrise. You won't be disappointed. A bit difficult in the dark so bring a good flashlight. The view is breathtaking and was worth it.

Great hike, 4 hrs total. At the top we were greeted by a wonderful volunteer, Bill who took our pictures!!!

One of the most rewarding hikes on the Appalachian Trail — and easily one of my favorites! The hike isn’t too tough, and the incredible views at the top make it all worth it. Spending a little time taking fun, photogenic shots on the famous rock ledge gives you a quick refresh before the hike back. I’d recommend visiting in late spring or summer when the trail is bursting with greenery — it makes the entire experience even more stunning. A must-do if you’re in the area!

Very rewarding hike!! It is At least 2 hours each way, 8 miles in total, and with an elevation of 1,700 feet, yet it is totally worth it. There are two parallel trails, the Fire Road (easier, flat) and the Appalachian Trail (harder, steeper, nicer view and trail). We go up by the AT and down by the Fire Road. There is a shuttle service from different places since the parking spots are very limited near the entrance of the trail, the shuttle needs to be booked online in advance.