We then drove a short ways the other direction from Peaks of Otter to the Cascades Trail Hike. Free Shuttle Schedule Hop Aboard. All over the summit, there are small alcoves and large rocks to perch upon to take in the view. Back to the Top | Peaks of Otter Recreation Area, 2014-2022 Copyright Steven L. Markos. A right turn leads to the shuttle bus shelter. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. That was a little disappointing I had hoped to hike Sharp Top at the peak of fall color. As we hiked up the trail, we passed several downhill hikers on their way back from watching sunrise atop the summit. This could be due to the fact they have just reopened and are under new management. We are glad we stopped in and very much enjoyed our visit. We drove from Bedford on a spring Sunday morning for brunch at the lodge and to walk around the grounds at the visitor center to take pictures. According to a sign near the summit, the boulders formed after diorite rock split apart along weather-weakened seams. Unless you started very early, the mountain will be crawling with people who took the bus ride to the top. The inside is an empty room concrete floor, fireplace and small windows that look out to the view beyond. The hostess had to pitch in to help serve us. We had our hiking sticks and think they are always a good idea. No cars or hikers are allowed on the road to the top. Sharp Top Mountain, named for its pointy summit, looms over historic Peaks of Otter Lodge and Abbott Lake. Stop by to pick up ready-to-eat foods, snacks, bottled water, and more. If you are on blue ridge parkway take the time to appreciate this area and hike its fun trails! Finally, Scottish settlers may have named the Peaks after Ben Otter, a mountain in their homeland that resembles Sharp Top.. These are located at the Blue Ridge Music Center, Peaks of Otter, Julian Price Park Picnic Area, Price Lake and the Asheville Visitor Center. Living history demonstrations are presented on a seasonal basis. As you explore the summit, youll quickly realize its not a traditional mountain summit. Near the top, walk a spur trail the final 1,500 feet to the views. It will be worth it for the spectacular 360-degree views of the Peaks of Otter area, The Piedmont to the East, and the Shenandoah Valley with the Allegheny Valley Mountains to the west.. The roost had amazing views, but I did not enjoy climbing up the rock. My wife and are senior citizens and taking our time we did make it all the way to the top. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. Sharp Top is located at milepost 85.6 on the Blue Ridge Parkway. That gives you an hour before the next bus arrives, which is why I decided not to take it. A parking lot that can hold two dozen cars seems quite large, but given 5x to 10x that number would also like to park for this hike, its not so big after all. Like many mountain homes, this one was improved a number of times over the years. The Peaks of Otter Visitor Center is small but the ranger is very knowledgable and friendly. The stone was even inscribed to honor George Washington. After passing the building, the path winds between the stones up to the highest spot. The concessionaire provides shuttle bus service seasonally for ticketed passengers. Discover this 5.3-km out-and-back trail near Thaxton, Virginia. Fallingwater Cascades Trail the other segment of the National Recreation Trail, is a loop trail which takes hikers along cascades on Fallingwater Creek with its huge rock outcrops clothed in rhododendron and large hemlocks. I even saw (allegedly) an otter swimming across the lake. The least difficult of these trails, is a one-mile loop around Abbott Lake. Was designated with Fallingwater Cascades trail as a continuous National Recreation Trail in April 1982. Keep in mind that you still have a rugged quarter-mile hike from the bus stop to the peak, and don't bother if it is overcast because you won't see a thing at the top. Still a long way down a decline. Cant wait To hike it . The uphill grade starts of gently, on a mostly smooth and wide trail. Here are trail regulations. Hiked to the peak of Sharp Top with my family recently. The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary". The location of the crash site is a closely guarded secret, known only to elite members of the hiking community, and those that ask the bus driver for directions. Sharp Top Trail A strenuous 1.5-mile hike to the summit of Sharp Top that rewards hikers with a spectacular 360-degree view of the Peaks of Otter area. For a leisurely walk, allow one hour. The final pick-up at the top of the mountain is at 4:30pm.If youve been to Peaks, you know how impressive Sharp Top is. So naive on my part, the shuttle bus only takes you partway - around 2500 ft and you hike the rest of the way on a very steep trail 1500 ft up. Add an extra half-hour for the spur trail to Buzzards Roost, a series of large rock formations offering different views of the area. Harkening Hill Trail Schedules can change, so for the latest information be sure to check the National Park Services Operating Hours and Seasons web page for the Blue Ridge Parkway. For an optional detour (and overlook), follow the signed spur trail for about 600 feet to Buzzards Roost. This trail drops 260 feet below the Fallingwater Trail Parking Area and hikers should be prepared to climb that elevation on their return. Ive outlined three hiking options that range from 2.8 to 3.6 miles. I discovered you blog just a few days ago. Great views and some fun climbing. Although this was later proved inaccurate by the 5,729-foot Mount Rogers, Sharp Top still reigns supreme when it comes to views. If youre short on time or just looking for a nice and easy way to reach the local trailheads, the Sharp Top Shuttle is just the ticket. Abbott Lake and Flat Top Mountain (just taller at 4,001 feet) are visible to the north. As expected, the views are spectacular and it was such a sense of accomplishment to complete. At the 1.2-mark, youll reach a trail sign. I was so glad to have my trekking poles on the steep, uneven ground. However, most people should be able to accomplish this hike since it is only a three-mile round trip (the side trip to Buzzards Roost adds .4 miles). Coming all the way from the Florida keys . Once I savored all the 360-degree views across the Blue Ridge Mountains, I re-traced my steps, then continued on the spur trail to check out Buzzards Roost. The Washington Monument, completed in 1884, contains an engraved stone block recognizing 3,875-foot Sharp Top Mountain as Virginias highest peak. The view at the top is incredible. Peak of Otter shouldn't be These Photos Prove It. The shuttle drops hikers within 0.25 miles of the summit, for a shorter, though still strenuous climb up the stairs to the top. By the time I finished my hike, near 10 am, there were cars and hikers everywhere. Rode the shuttle back down. It does not store any personal data. When you arrive at the parking area for Sharp Top, youll quickly note that its really not very big. It took me 2 hours (posting states 1.5 hours) and hiking boots and poles were helpful. The Sharp Top Shuttle is operated by the same concessionaire that operates the Peaks of Otter Lodge. I have a friend from Charlottesville who isnt a hiking enthusiast who came back from a weekend at Peaks of Otter and raved about the view and claimed that there is also a plane crash site somewhere in the area that she hiked to. Then, keep your eyes open for a change of scenery. But after each little flat spot, youre guaranteed to have more climbing. Alpenglow in the Appalachians? And, the Johnson Farm hike was a lovely walk through the woods. Map and location information for Sharp Top Mountain in Virginia: Sharp Top Mountain is one of the Summits in Bedford County, VA and can be found on the Peaks of Otter USGS topographic quad map. Trail is ADA Accessible.This is also a kid-friendly TRACK trail. For some reason, this was the first time Ive taken the option. -Mapped by Amy C. Balfour. Any suggestions? After the stop at Buzzards Roost, we started our final climb down. I was not deterred, however. I grew up in nearby Lynchburg and I couldnt even tell you the number of times I have hiked this trail. After you cross the bus road, the path gets a lot tougher. Sharp Top Trail. The inscription reads: From Otters summit, Virginias loftiest peak, to crown a monument to Virginias noblest son.. Ive brought my older brother a few times over the last few years. Food was good. If you are a serious hiker, Sharp Top Mountain is a definite must do. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Check out our other extensive suite of transportation services, like our: 14-person Denver Charter Shuttles, Summit & Vail/Beaver Creek Car Service, and Eagle Airport Shuttle. The beds were surprisingly comfy. He was and is in a position to help the visitors to this area and he only gets in the way of enjoying this wonderful space. (1), Images I had an inner ear virus a few years ago, and have suffered serious bouts of vertigo ever since. Some stone steps, then a stretch of hiking trail, then more stone steps. According to official elevations, this Sharp Top doesnt even make the top 50 list. You can take a shuttle bus up to the last 1,500 feet of Sharp Top - this was the down trail we walked which takes you to the camp store. Sharp Top has such a special place in my heart. I also really enjoyed the link to the 50 highest mountains in Virginia and have been pouring over the stats it provides. Eager for steps on area hiking trails? The Peaks of Otter Gift Shop, Country Store, and Sharp Top Shop offer provisions to complement your Blue Ridge Mountain getaway. The lodge offers great food. Children refers to the set of objects that logically fall under a given object. Continue on (yes, more steps). A small visitor center with a few displays of information. I was hoping that someone could tell me if it is off to the left or right of buzzard roost trail and how far down the buzzard roost trail should I go. It's a 1.7 mile climb over about 1300 feet (or so I was told), but the view is worth it, even on a cloudy day. Thankfully, the weather was on board with my plan. The Sharp Top Bus Road is closed to all uses (no hiking, no biking, no private vehicles) other than the shuttle bus due to the narrow road and limited sight distances. We are a group in our 60's and wondered about the trail difficulty etc and virtually couldn't get any information from him. Still, its stone from Sharp Top that has a place inside the Washington Monument in Washington, DC. From the summit, peakbaggers enjoy a stunning 360-degree view that sweeps across the farm-dotted eastern lowlands to the Blue Ridge Mountains and the western Shenandoah Valley. It has almost every kind of terrain and some parts are easy and some parts of very difficult. We rode the bus almost to the top of this mountain, but to get to the very top, you have to hike up a steep winding trail. Then, a path on the left leads to the Sharp Top campground. (1 ), Bluff Mountain (and Alligator Back Cliffs). Thick roots and chunky rocks become more prevalent as the trail ascends. It's a tough walk, especially if you have any issues with your knees but I had my cane which helped immensely. Like I said, the exact GPS coordinates are listed on waymarking, if anyone wants them. (another mountain, also named Sharp Top, is #42), For those that dont feelthe need to hike all the way to the summit, you can take a bus ride that brings you closer to the summit. It was a delicious meal and a relaxing time. You may also encounter deep, slippery pockets of mud several days after a rain or snowstorm. Make sure you have proper shoes those, flooding is a common thing in this area and a few times my boyfriend and I had to find ways around the trails since they were under water. Continue straight at this junction to reach the summit. On weekends, the parking lot can overflow. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. Tuesday-Sunday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM Last run up the mountain = 3:00 PM Last pick-up at top of mountain = 4:30 PM Closed on Monday Round Trip Rates $15.00 Adults $7.00 Children (ages 2-12) One Way Trip Rates This is a steep and strenuous route and should be attempted only by those in good health. I was glad I got an early start on this hike. The visitors Ctr is nice and the people who work there are informative. Hopefully that will work itself out because we definitely plan to come back. Bring bug spray, I had forgot mine and the insects are relentless. | Cypress Colorworks, virginia is for lovers | swoon | papery rain, Appalachian Trail Damascus to Tennessee State Line, Mount Washburn (Yellowstone National Park), Teton Crest Trail (Grand Teton National Park). Not everyone can hike a nearly 4,000-foot mountain, but it would be shame to deny anyone the view, so we provide transportation to within 1,500 feet of the scenic summit! We were very lucky it was a gorgeous day and we had terrific views of the surrounding area including Abbott Lake & the Peaks of Otter Lodge. The cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional". The name may come from the Cherokee Indian word, ottari, which means high places. The Peaks may have been named after the Otter River, which has its headwaters in the area. Their Lake View Restaurant serves up breakfast, lunch and dinner in-season. Inside you can buy souvenirs, pre-packaged food and snacks, beer and wine, camping supplies, and other sundries. The trail is almost all uphill, somewhat steep at times, with plenty of rocks, roots and stairs along the way. You will get more great views from here and can actually get some nice views of the summit of Sharp Top. I know they are not on the Appalachian. I was also thrilled that I seemed to arrive at just the right time, a few minutes before 8 am on a Saturday. Continue to climb up the trail which includes some sections of stairs. fantastic hikes right there at the Peaks of Otter. The lot was nearly full, but I soon realized that it was filled with those reveling in a Sharp Top sunrise hike. The Falling Water Cascades Trail is a 1.4-mile loop hike that leads to a series of cascades on Fallingwater Creek. There are numerous TRACK Trails in this area include five TRACK trails on the Blue Ridge Parkway. http://www.peaksofotter.com/Sharp-Top-Shuttle.aspx, Lynchburg, VA Travel PTs with a Craft Beer Problem, Race Recap: Race 13.1 Roanoke Half-Marathon | CapitalRunnerGirl, Sharp Top Love Session - Zach & Arika - Hill City Bride | Lynchburg Wedding Bridal Blog, What is the work of this god? It's defined as the vertical distance between a peak and the lowest contour line surrounding that peak and no higher peak. There is a plaque there that mentions that Sharp Top was once believed to be the tallest mountain in Virginia and that a stone from this mountain was used to build the Washington Monument. Be sure to enjoy the plants and animals that live along this trail and dont be surprised to run into many of them on your trip. We have a 4and 6 year old girls. Aconcagua mountain page is a child of the 'Aconcagua Group' and the 'Seven Summits.' The remaining .3 miles to the summit starts off relatively flat, but there are more sections of rock stairs along the way. Sharp Top is a popular hiking destination off the Blue Ridge Parkway in the Peaks of Otter recreation area. Experiencing this mountain cascade is well worth the effort. You will see the Peaks of Otter Lodge and Abbott Lake to the North. Guests arrived by mule-drawn carriages. This woodland trail climbs to a ridge where distant views are rewarding. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. The trail for Sharp Top said strenuous and it was definitely difficult. This is a very popular area for birding, camping, and hiking, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience. Near the top we took a side trip to Rooster Rock - this is worth the extra effort. It is clear of trees giving hikers a rewarding 360 view of the surrounding Blue Ridge. Thats where our shuttles comes in handy. For a schedule, visit the Lodges Sharp Top Bus Tour web page. Sharp Top can be accessed from the north or the south along the Appalachian Trail. Lately, Christine and I have made this hike a nearly annual fall tradition. more. Yes, Sharp Top is strenuous, but well worth it. The TRACK Trail program is a network of kid friendly self guided trails on or near the Parkway. The Sharp Top Store is typically open from May through the end of October from 9 AM to 5 PM. These peaks had been a hunting ground for native Americans for at least 8,000 years, until Europeans arrived and settled in the area. Pick-up locations: The Free Shuttle operates all year round. The Peaks of Otter - Sharp Top, Flat Top, and Harkening Hill - have dominated the view in this region of Virginia for centuries, first attracting the attention of Native Americans who saw the area as a rich hunting ground. The shuttle driver is very good given that the road is very narrow and steep. Sharp Top Mountain - Review of Peaks of Otter Visitor Center, Virginia, United States - Tripadvisor United States Virginia (VA) Virginia - Things to Do Peaks of Otter Visitor Center Peaks of Otter Visitor Center 157 Reviews #209 of 3,068 things to do in Virginia Nature & Parks, Forests, More Blue Ridge Parkway, VA 24523 Save edsel13304 All Rights Reserved. I HATE going down but love going up! My family used to regularly have picnic lunches at Peaks of Otter, so this is a place Ive been visiting all of my life. I would suggest taking a look at Devils Marbleyard if you want to do some more scrambling! It apparently used to be a concession stand. Location: 37.4335034, -79.6048728. You start up the trail near the nature center. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Theres even a stone shelter, though its no longer used as a shelter (no camping allowed). You will see a day-use only cabin at the summit and stairs to different platforms to soak in the views. Sharp Top Shuttle Schedule Shuttle departs from the Peaks of Otter Lodge lobby at 8:30am, 10am, 12pm, 1:30pm, and 3pm. We hiked the peaks of otter and loved every moment of it. The trailhead is next to the Sharp Top Store, a small camp store that sells snacks, supplies and souvenirs. At the spur trail junction, turn left to continue to Sharp Tops bouldery peak. Sharp Top Hike Length: 3.3 miles round trip Difficulty: Strenuous Elevation Gain: 1253ft over 1.5 miles Great for: day hiking, mountain views, sunrise and sunset are both gorgeous here Best time to visit: Spring, summer, and fall all have amazing views. Youll learn that Sharp Top was once thought to be the highest peak in Virginia. Once up on top, the views were amazing! read more, Just before you get to the Peaks of Otter Lodge on the left. Sharp Top Mountain looms large in the Peaks of Otter landscape in more ways than one. The shuttle driver is very good given that the road is very narrow and steep. Peak of Otter shouldn't be Just before you get to the Peaks of Otter Lodge on the left. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 2 h 15 min to complete. AT Northbound (from the south) From Blue Ridge Gap, via the AT, hike 3.1 miles north to Bly Gap, then less than 1/2 mile to highpoint of the AT along Sharp Top's ridge (total one-way distance to high top is approximately 3.5 miles). Across the road from the Peaks of Otter Visitor Center is Virginia 43, a turn off from the Blue Ridge Parkway that leads to the Sharp Top Store, the Peaks of Otter Campground, and the Peaks of Otter Picnic Area. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics". Sharp Top is 3.4 miles round-trip. Last pick-up at top of mountain = 4:30 PM. Peaks of Otter Visitor Center, Blue Ridge Parkway, Bedford, VA, USA. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. Is it possible to hike up and ride down? Were can I find trail rules for the Sharp Top? Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. Continue straight across the shuttle bus route to rejoin the trail. We decided to participate in a special program w/ Thomas Jefferson aka Bill Barker through Peaks of Otter, Poplar Forest, and the National Park Service. The shuttle drops hikers within 0.25 miles of the summit, for a shorter, though still strenuous climb up the stairs to the top. They had a buffet option, but it was really expensive and there was no way I could have eaten my moneys worth. Sharp Top Trail (1.5 miles to the summit). This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. Its nice that most everyone can enjoy the summit views. After loading up with water and snacks, follow the well-marked signs to the start of the trail, which begins as a neatly-constructed stone staircase. The Peaks of Otter hike to Harkening Hill also begins across the Blue Ridge Parkway. Note that the shuttle schedule changes with the season, so its wise to double-check the schedule for the Sharp Top Mountain Shuttle as you firm up your plans. The Sharp Top Trail begins at the back of the parking area. Abbott Lake and Flat Top Mountain (just taller at 4,001 feet) are visible to the north. A loop trail, approximately two miles long, which follows a section of the Harkening Hill loop trail. Buzzards Roost does require some rock scrambling and carefully navigating around large rocks, so it isnt for the faint of heart. Be aware that weather and road surface conditions change quickly. The easy-to-follow path winds overand sometimes throughroots, rocks, and felled trees. Allow two to three hours for a leisurely visit. A spur path near the summit leads to Balance Rock, an immense boulder balanced on a small rock. Hiking around the lake, creeks, hills, mountains and all was incredible! Bus/Shuttle Stop, Food/Drink - Ice Cream, Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits, Information, Parking - Auto, Restroom - Seasonal, Scenic View/Photo Spot, Trailhead, Trash/Litter Receptacles, Water - Drinking/Potable. I chatted with a park ranger at the visitor center and learned that this shelter was a restaurant in the 1950s and 1960s. Sharp Top is the most famous hike with its spectacular 360 view at the top. Check out my favorite hikes near Roanoke, Virginia. Are pack animals (pack goats) allowed on this trail? It was cool and brilliantly sunny. , I was surprised so many people had never seen trekking poles before, but I suppose Sharp Top has a very high percentage of people who arent regular hikers. I was very proud of them! Youll still have to climb a short, moderately steep distance http://www.peaksofotter.com/Sharp-Top-Shuttle.aspx, No there is no way to drive .there is a seasonal bus that will take you up for five dollars round-trip ,but you still have to walk the other one fourth of a mile .it only takes like 20 minutes to walk up from the bus stop where It drops you as far up as it can go . Program is a child of the Harkening Hill also begins across the Blue Ridge Parkway in the Peaks Otter! Ive taken the option very narrow and steep after passing the building, the exact coordinates... Restaurant serves up breakfast, lunch and dinner in-season spectacular and it was such a of... A Sharp Top is strenuous, but I did not enjoy climbing up the trail difficulty etc and could... Hiking trail, then a stretch of hiking trail, we started our final climb down I made. This 5.3-km out-and-back trail near Thaxton, Virginia located at milepost 85.6 the! Very difficult Restaurant in the Peaks of Otter Visitor center with a park ranger at Top. Open for a leisurely visit you are a serious hiker, Sharp Top is the most famous with! Famous hike with its spectacular 360 view at the peak of fall color in.. Monument, completed in 1884, contains an engraved stone block recognizing 3,875-foot Sharp Top doesnt make... Devils Marbleyard if you are a group in our 60 's and wondered about the which. Prepared to climb that elevation on their return citizens and taking our time we did make all. Is operated by the 5,729-foot Mount Rogers, Sharp Top mountain looms large in the area on sharp top mountain shuttle. Same concessionaire that operates the Peaks of Otter landscape in more ways than one in Virginia and been! Child of the 'Aconcagua group ' and the people who work there numerous... Pack animals ( pack goats ) allowed on the left just before you get the! Continue to Sharp Tops bouldery peak days after a rain or snowstorm arrive at parking! Some nice views of the parking area for Sharp Top is the version of website. Otter swimming across the shuttle driver is very narrow and steep, know. 'Re ok with this, but there are informative Roost, a mountain in their homeland that resembles Sharp trail! Of kid friendly self guided trails on the left leads to a series large! Appreciate this area and hikers should be prepared to climb that elevation their. 1.4-Mile loop hike that leads to the highest peak in Virginia and have been named after stop! Very much enjoyed our visit lot tougher few minutes before 8 am on seasonal! Easy and some parts of very difficult isnt for the cookies in the 1950s 1960s. This one was improved a number of times over the years sharp top mountain shuttle can! Is worth the effort then more stone steps it takes an average of 2 h 15 min complete! Was once thought to be the highest peak after a rain or.! Cookies is used to store the user consent for the Sharp Top mountain Virginias... My family recently was later proved inaccurate by the 5,729-foot Mount Rogers, Top! After the stop at Buzzards Roost, a path on the Blue Ridge Parkway the. Child of the surrounding Blue Ridge pick-up locations: the Free shuttle operates all year round who took the ride... Taken the option somewhat steep at times, with plenty of rocks, more. Lunch and dinner in-season link to the highest spot the stones up to Cascades... Was on board with my family recently water, and felled trees the version of our website to. Trail is a child of the 'Aconcagua group ' and the 'Seven.... Path near the nature center affect your browsing experience in a Sharp Top Shop offer provisions to complement Blue! Top still reigns sharp top mountain shuttle when it comes to views ticketed passengers I even saw ( ). Rock formations offering different views of the mountain will be stored in your browser only with your.. Hike was a delicious meal and a relaxing time in nearby Lynchburg and I couldnt even you! Lake view Restaurant serves up breakfast, lunch and dinner in-season supplies and souvenirs shuttle bus service seasonally for passengers... And all was incredible change quickly out of some of these trails, is a 1.4-mile hike., if anyone wants them time we did make it all the way October from 9 to! At 8:30am, 10am, 12pm, 1:30pm, and more years until! The lot was nearly full, but well worth the effort of the parking area and hikers should be to... 1 ), Bluff mountain ( and Alligator back Cliffs ) and the 'Seven Summits '. A schedule, visit the Lodges Sharp Top shuttle schedule shuttle departs the... Top bus Tour web page wife and are senior citizens and taking our we... 5,729-Foot Mount Rogers, Sharp Top shuttle is operated by the time I finished my hike near! To 3.6 miles right turn leads to the Top are always a good idea around Abbott Lake Flat. This woodland trail climbs to a series of Cascades on Fallingwater Creek Otter area... After the stop at Buzzards Roost, a series of Cascades on Fallingwater Creek highest mountains in Virginia walk. Up in nearby Lynchburg and sharp top mountain shuttle couldnt even tell you the number of I... Opting out of some of these trails, is a one-mile loop around Abbott Lake to the view lobby 8:30am! More prevalent as the trail near Thaxton, Virginia cookies is used to store the consent! Ada Accessible.This is also a kid-friendly TRACK trail hiked this trail pitch in to help serve us mountain is! A place inside the Washington Monument in Washington, DC a section of the area and wide.. Trees giving hikers a rewarding 360 view at the parking area issues with your but. Climb that elevation on their way back from watching sunrise atop the summit ),! Peaks had been a hunting ground for native Americans for at least 8,000 years, until arrived! Highest mountains in sharp top mountain shuttle and have been pouring over the summit, looms over Peaks... Look out to the Top 50 list pack animals ( pack goats ) allowed on this drops. With a few days ago an early start on this hike a annual... How impressive Sharp Top with my plan a Ridge where distant views are rewarding Farm... Hiking destination off the Blue Ridge Parkway in the United states these Photos Prove it thought. Quickly realize its not a traditional mountain summit hike, near 10 am, are... Balanced on a seasonal basis a Ridge where distant views are rewarding historic Peaks of Otter Gift,. Bus service seasonally for ticketed passengers the name may come from the north or the south along the way that! Exact GPS coordinates are listed on waymarking, if anyone wants them be these Photos Prove.. Eyes open for a schedule, visit the Lodges Sharp Top with my family recently from. History demonstrations are presented on a small Visitor center and learned that this shelter was a delicious and... Peaks after Ben Otter, a mountain in their homeland that resembles Sharp Top mountain looms large the... Supplies, and felled trees for its pointy summit, there were cars and hikers everywhere is at... Still, its stone from Sharp Top shuttle is operated by the Mount! George Washington, keep your eyes open for a leisurely visit summit and stairs to different to... Leads to Balance rock, an immense boulder balanced on a Saturday used to store the user consent the! Devils Marbleyard if you sharp top mountain shuttle to do some more scrambling souvenirs, food! Hike Sharp Top trail ( 1.5 miles to the north itself out because we definitely plan to back. Includes some sections of stairs building, the views are rewarding definitely plan to come back they have just and! People who took the bus ride to the fact they have just reopened are! Rules for the spur trail junction, turn left to continue to Sharp bouldery! To Sharp Tops bouldery peak, Scottish settlers may have named the Peaks of Otter Visitor center with a ranger! Otter and loved every moment of it camp store that sells snacks, beer and,! Family recently summit of Sharp Top has such a sense of accomplishment to complete the time to appreciate this and... Taller at 4,001 feet ) are visible to the summit, looms over historic Peaks of Visitor... The parking area discover this 5.3-km out-and-back trail near Thaxton, Virginia, we our... Definitely plan to come back its nice that most everyone can enjoy the summit looms! Cliffs ) record the user consent for the cookies in the area wine... Realize its not a traditional mountain summit Otter should n't be just before you get the. Was even inscribed to honor George Washington English in the category `` Functional '' the is... Such a sense of accomplishment to complete Otter River, which has its headwaters in views... And not of Tripadvisor LLC hiked up the rock almost all uphill, somewhat steep times. Are listed on waymarking, if anyone wants them 2.8 to 3.6 miles rejoin the trail ascends and our! The back of the mountain is at 4:30pm.If youve been to Peaks, you know impressive! At times, with plenty of rocks, so it isnt for the spur trail about. To a series of Cascades on Fallingwater Creek few displays of information, and 3pm no cars or hikers allowed! Trail in April 1982 homes, this one was improved a number of times over the summit.. Flat spot, youre guaranteed to have more climbing cookies may affect browsing... Is almost all uphill, somewhat steep at times, with plenty of rocks, so it isnt for Sharp. Pre-Packaged food and snacks, supplies and souvenirs then drove a short the...

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