Thru-Hiking Virginia's Appalachian Trail: Insider Tips from Seasoned Hikers
Virginia boasts 544 miles of the renowned Appalachian Trail—the most of any state. Each year, countless hikers, from young adventurers to seasoned veterans, embark on this 80-year-old path aspiring to thru-hike its full 2,190 miles, often from Georgia to Maine.
The A.T. in Virginia is celebrated for iconic landmarks like the breathtaking sunrise at McAfee Knob, wild ponies at Grayson Highlands State Park, the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, and Skyline Drive. It's equally beloved by weekend and section hikers of all levels seeking a taste of its timeless beauty.
We interviewed thru-hikers Staige Davis and Andrea Parra, who shared their firsthand experiences navigating Virginia's section in June.
How long have you been hiking?
We've hiked since childhood, thanks to family outings, school trips, and summer camps. Staige recalls camping at Bear Creek Lake State Park with his father and sisters—a lifelong passion ignited. For this thru-hike, we began at Springer Mountain, Georgia, on March 5, covering 460 miles through Georgia, North Carolina, and Tennessee before entering Virginia in late April. We tackled over 500 miles here before heading to West Virginia in early June.
How did you plan your trip?
Key preparation included frequent weekend backpacking trips in Virginia spots like Grayson Highlands State Park, Three Ridges Wilderness, Cold Mountain, and McAfee Knob. Thorough online research and gear selection were also essential.
Were there any Virginia A.T. stops you anticipated most?
Absolutely—Damascus, marking Virginia's entry, was a major milestone. Staige felt immense pride reaching his home state on foot. We also eagerly awaited Devil’s Backbone Brewery in Nelson County, with its outstanding food, drinks, and free campsite for thru-hikers.
What were your favorite experiences?
Damascus stood out for trail friendships, local hospitality, and escaping heavy rain in a cozy hostel. At Devil’s Backbone, we reunited with Charlottesville friends, enjoyed lunch at Trent’s Grocery trailside grill, and hosted a 5-hour picnic by picturesque Dismal Falls, sharing stories.
Highlights included Skeeter Dogs in Wytheville, Daleville coffee, Grayson Highlands ponies, Dragon’s Tooth, McAfee Knob, and Tinker Cliffs. Challenges like rocky terrain, monotony, and wet weather tested us—Staige even battled sore feet and 'Virginia Blues.' New boots, stretches, compression socks, and the supportive trail community, including Andrea, fellow hikers, shuttle drivers, and shopkeepers, kept us motivated.
Did you visit Virginia’s Trail Towns? Favorites and trail magic?
Yes, several. Damascus is a hiker haven. Lesser-known gems like Buena Vista offered a retro motel, generous Italian portions, a welcoming library, and Amish resupply. On Mother’s Day along the Blue Ridge Parkway, a local provided sandwiches, pastries, fruit, and drinks, insisting we call our moms—pure trail magic.
Favorite Virginia A.T. moments?
Countless, but resting by the 300-year-old Keffer Oak—the trail's second-largest tree—in rolling farmland was magical, evoking centuries of history.
What surprised you about Virginia’s A.T.?
It's tougher than expected. Despite myths of 'flat Virginia,' the terrain is rugged with significant climbs.
Advice for Virginia A.T. hikers?
Beginners: Start small, build up, and prioritize good weather. Experts: Embrace climbs—hike with friends, use podcasts, take mindful breaks. The summit rewards the journey.
Next Virginia adventure?
A scenic road trip: Andrea loves winding backroads; Staige, hidden small towns—Virginia excels at both.
Staige Davis is an outdoor enthusiast who enjoys yoga, reading, and Virginia's local cuisine. He calls Richmond and Charlottesville home.
Andrea Parra, originally from Bogotá, Colombia, moved to Virginia for UVA. Beyond backpacking, she rocks climbs and kayaks whitewater.
For more Virginia mountain adventures and statewide exploration, visit Virginia.org/LGBT.
