I'll be in Charlottesville in a couple weeks, and was hoping to squeeze a hike in. This is all weather-permitting, I realize, so no lectures are required about that.

I would value your suggestions on which hikes to try. I presume the best hiking will be on the southern end inside Shenandoah Park, but I could be wrong. Things I'm looking for are:

1. Total hiking time of anywhere from 1-3 hours.
2. Any skill level.. I'm in good shape and used to tackling tough trails
3. Nice Vistas somewhere along the hike.. I'll want to sit and take in the view, again, weather-permitting

I've already done Old Rag and several of the northern Shenandoah trails... looking for something closer to Charlottesville this time.

Thanks!!

ttt - any ideas? Thanks.

HonestAbe.....I would HIGHLY recommend a side trip to Grayson Highlands State Park in southern Virginia. Although it might add a little extra driving time to your trip, it will be well worth it.

Grayson Highlands is wrapped by the Mount Rogers National Recreation Area, and is nicknamed "The Swiss Alps of the Southeast". One of the most beautiful stretches of the Appalachian Trail goes through the park, and the views are awesome. The hikes are not really strenuous, and weather-permitting you will be blown away by the special treats Grayson Highlands has to offer.

The park service reintroduced wild ponies to the area back in the fifties to help control plant growth. You are sure to encounter small herds of them as you stroll along your way. Many have long tails and manes that make them look like unicorns without horns. Just ask at the ranger station about where to find them, and they'll give you suggestions.

If no one is in the ranger station when you arrive, grab a free map of the park from the booth as you arrive. My suggestion is that you take the trail called "The Rhododendron Loop". It's a good workout with splendid views, and you'll want to make sure you have a camera with you at all times.

If you move gently, many of the ponies will allow you to get up close to them and take some great photos.

For more information, here's a link to the park's web site:

http://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state_parks/gra.shtml

Enjoy!!!

The "Humpback Rock" hike in Shenandoah NP is a great hike. Moderately strenuous and wonderful views at the top.

Look at the website wildernet.com and also stop in at the Blue Ridge Mountain Sports Store in Charlottesville. A couple of books to look for are: Hiking Virginia, a Falcon guide by Randy Johnson and Guide to Shenandoah National Park and Skyline Drive.