Old Rag Hikes
Old Rag Mountain in Shenandoah National Park is one of the Washington area’s most spectacular views, and one of CCW’s most popular popular excursions, attracting 25-50 Cornell alumni, students, and friends each time. The Cornell Club of Washington has sponsored day hikes to Old Rag twice a year since 1985, organized first and headed for many years by Bob McKinless ’48.
Trail
At 3291 ft., Old Rag is one of the most impressive peaks in the northern Virginia Blue Ridge, and the trail one of the most popular in the area. As it is almost two hours outside Washington and the scarce parking fills up early, CCW organizes carpools from the Cornell Center.
The first two-thirds of the strenuous 9-mile loop follows the Old Rag Summit Ridge Trail up the mountain through trees, while the upper portion is open and rugged, with a scramble over the rocks to the stunning view at the top. The descent follows the Saddle Trail to the Weakley Hollow Fire Road, which returns to the parking lot. The circuit takes 6-7 hours including breaks, with a total elevation gain of around 2500 feet.
What to Bring
A hat, sunscreen, and sturdy shoes should be worn. Hikers should also bring lunch and sufficient water. After leaving the Cornell Center, the group traditionally reconvenes at The Emporium in Sperryville, which will be the last opportunity to purchase supplies and use flush toilets.
Additional Resources
- Old Rag Area Map (PDF) from the National Park Service
- National Weather Service forecast for Sperryville, VA
For more information contact Clint Brass '90, oldrag@cornellclubdc.org
