Humpback Rocks — Attraction in Waynesboro

If you’re looking for:

• truly second-to-none, panoramic, sweeping views of the Shenandoah and Rockfish valleys • accessible by a short (30-45 minute) hike • that is very close to Waynesboro (10-15 minute drive) or Cville (25-30 minute drive)

then this is the hike for you.

Some caveats and tips: • the trail up to the top can be steep, narrow, unstable, and eroded in some places, and about a third of it is rudimentary stairs. Pick steps carefully in some areas. Some parts of the trail require clambering over fallen trees or boulders. This trail is unfortunately probably inaccessible to people with severe mobility issues. It’s similar in difficulty to Sharp Top if you’ve been there. • the rocks themselves can pose a fall hazard - keep dogs on a leash and kids in sight. Get ready for a scramble up the rocks when you arrive and wear shoes with decent heel support and good tread. • the trail can be busy even in the middle of a weekday! When I went it was about 11:30 on a Wednesday and the trailhead parking lot was full. This is a popular hiking destination so plan accordingly. • the actual trailhead is not in the area by the stone houses and information booth (right side of the road if you’re traveling south on the parkway). It is on the left hand side (traveling south) about 0.3 miles further. Put in “Humpback Gap Overlook” into Google maps.

That being said, this is an astonishingly rewarding hike with, without a doubt, the best views under an hour from Charlottesville. I highly...

Humpback Rock is one of the most beautiful and rewarding hikes in Virginia, especially for those who enjoy both challenge and breathtaking scenery. The trail may be short, but it’s quite steep and can really test your stamina. However, every bit of effort pays off once you reach the top — the panoramic view of the Blue Ridge Mountains is absolutely stunning. On a clear day, you can see endless layers of rolling hills and valleys that make all the hard breathing along the way worth it.

The trail is well-marked and easy to follow, though it can get rocky and slippery in spots, so wearing good hiking shoes is a must. There are also benches along the way where you can rest if needed. It’s a popular spot, so weekends and holidays tend to be crowded, but the atmosphere is friendly and full of fellow nature lovers.

Sunrise and sunset hikes are especially magical here, with the changing colors painting the sky and mountains. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just looking for an adventurous day trip, Humpback Rock offers one of the most unforgettable outdoor experiences in the region — pure Virginia beauty...

This is an outstanding hike off the Blue Ridge Parkway. Note if you're using Google maps put in Humpback Gap Overlook or the directions will end approximately 1/2 mile from the trailhead parking lot. You have 2 choices to get to the top using either a direct or loop route. I highly recommend the loop trail for the overlook(s) and other nature views on longer hike. The loop trail is approximately 4.2 miles. If you're in a hurry you can take the direct route up and back that's just under a mile each way. Although the direct route is fairly steep so take that into account. If you want the easier loop route start at the parking lot and it's approximately 3.2 miles to the overlook rocks. However you choose to get there once at the top it's a bit of a rock scramble with a lot.of options, but worth the scramble as it's a great 360 degree view at the top. This time we took the shorter route so the trail pictures I've posted are...