Roots & Ridgeways

Virginia’s Shenandoah National Park attracts over 1.4 million visitors each year with its unique wildlife and famous Skyline Drive, a 105-mile-long road with 69 overlooks along the Blue Ridge Mountains. The park provides 200,000 acres of protected lands for token species like the black bear, eastern box turtle, timber rattlesnake, and eastern brook trout.

With 500 miles of trails to choose from, planning a backpacking trip in Shenandoah may seem daunting—especially if you prefer lower traffic hikes.

I had a wonderful experience with my one-night backpacking itinerary, and I would love to share it with you. I have included a checklist at the end of this post.

Trail:	Riprap – Wildcat Ridge Loop
Length:	9.8 mile loop
Difficulty:	Strenuous
Elevation Gain:	2,073 feet
Est. Hiking Time:	5 hours
Features:	Swimming hole, scenic views, stream crossings, waterfalls, primitive camping
Backpacking Permit Required?	Yes

Riprap Trail

The Riprap – Wildcat Ridge loop offers stunning views from Chimney Rock, a mountain swimming hole, a small waterfall, and a large primitive campsite.

The loop is 9.8 miles long with an elevation gain of 2,073 ft. The trail is considered “Strenuous” due to a steep ascent near the top. My group was able to make the climb with roughly 30 lbs packs and little physical preparation. You can take breaks along the trail. This trail does not require technical skills.

The loop is located in Shenandoah’s South District (mile marker 90) off of Skyline Drive. The closest entrance station onto Skyline Drive is Rockfish Gap (mile marker 105.4), accessible via I-64 and U.S. 250. For current entrance fees, click here.

Note: To spend the night in the park, you must have a permit (more on that later).

Day One Itinerary

The hike starts at the Riprap Trail parking lot (mile marker 90). My itinerary requires hiking the loop clockwise.

From the parking area, you will briefly walk down a blue-blazed trail. Once you arrive at the white-blazed Appalachian trail marker, turn left. This 2.7 mile path on the AT runs parallel to Skyline Drive.

At the 2.7 mile mark, you will see a concrete trail marker for the Wildcat Ridge trail. Turn right onto this blue-blazed trail.

At the 4.8 mile mark, you will cross Riprap Creek. The water is fairly shallow.

At the 5.3 mile mark, you will reach Riprap trail (blue blazes). Turn right onto Riprap trail.

There are a few stream crossings in Riprap Hollow. The rocks are slippery so use caution.

The swimming hole will appear to your left off of the trail. It is gorgeous but freezing cold—even in the summer.

At the 6.4 mile mark, you will pass a series of small waterfalls. The trail runs alongside the cascades and does not require crossing them.

For the next mile, it is a steep ascent to the top. It might feel like a never-ending climb.

Alas, at 8.1 miles, you’ll reach the stunning Chimney Rock views.

Your overnight camping spot will be slightly further down the trail. To the left of the trail, you will find a primitive site with a stone fire ring. There are plenty of trees for hammocks and flat ground for tents.

Always abide by the Leave No Trace principles when camping. You will need an overnight permit to stay here (more on that later). Campfires are prohibited within the park so plan your meals accordingly.

After setting up your campsite, have fun exploring several outcroppings nearby. The sunset is breathtaking.

Day Two Itinerary

The next morning, continue down the trail. You completed most of the hike the previous day, so it is a short stretch back to the parking lot.

You’ll pass by a large rock slide to your left. There is a clear path to easily pass through.

At 9.3 miles, you’ll reach a concrete trail marker. Turn right onto the white-blazed Appalachian trail.

At the 9.8 mile mark, you’ll reach your last trail marker. Turn left to reach the parking lot.

Trip Preparation

Overnight Permit

To camp overnight in Shenandoah National Park, you must obtain a permit. I suggest printing out a copy of your permit to leave in the windshield of your vehicle and also a copy to carry in your pack.

To register for a permit, visit their website here: Shenandoah Backcountry Permits

For a tutorial on obtaining a permit, click here: Permit Tutorial

Reminder: The AT-Riprap-Wildcat loop is located in the South District near the Rockfish Gap entrance station.

Trail Map

You may not have cell service. When hiking, always download a map on your device or print off a physical copy. You can find the trail map here: Riprap-Wildcat Loop Trail Map

Fire Bans

Campfires are prohibited in Shenandoah National Park. Plan your meals accordingly. If you want a hot meal or coffee, I suggest investing in a portable backpacking stove (not affiliated).

Food Storage

The National Park Service requires storing all scented items in a bear-resistant canister. You can find a list of suggested canisters here: NPS Bear-Resistant Containers

If there are no other options, you can hang a “bear bag” in a tree. There are specific guidelines here: NPS Food Storage Guidelines

Weather

Always check weather conditions and pack accordingly.

Shenandoah updates their weather forecast here: Shenandoah Weather Forecast

Protection

Shenandoah National Park has a myriad of wildlife—including their famous black bears. They mostly keep to themselves, but make sure to follow the park’s protocols if you encounter a bear.

I highly suggest having “bear spray” on hand for peace of mind. You can find EPA-registered bear spray here (not affiliated): EPA-Registered Bear Spray

Guidelines on using bear spray in the park can be found here: NPS Bear Spray Guidelines

Suggested Checklist

1. Obtain permit & print two physical copies
2. Download or print trail map
3. Create a plan for meals and food storage
4. Check weather conditions
5. Pack protection (pepper spray, bear mace, taser, firearm, etc.)
6. Camping gear

Feel free to reach out to my email (roots.ridgeways@gmail.com) or leave a comment for any questions about this trip.

I hope you embrace this opportunity to experience the rich scenery of the Appalachian region.

Let’s get back to our roots!

For more articles on outdoor exploration, check out our newest posts here.

Have something to share? Comment down below!