Great Washington DC area day hike - Old Rag in Shenandoah National Park

[Channing]

All right, I know Old Rag is not exactly going to jump out at you as some kind of 'hidden gem" of east coast hiking, as it is already quite well known in this area.  However, here's a better question, have you been?  If not, then go now.  I mean it, go right now!  Ok, maybe not right now, but do read on....

Well known as one of the highlights of Shenandoah National Park, Old Rag is an easy drive from Washington DC and makes for a great day escape from our favorite "island surrounded by reality" otherwise know as our nation's capital.  Full of fantastic panoramic views and some challenging rock scrambles, this bit of rock will make you work, but also reward you handsomely for your efforts.  Also a couple of words to the wise.  Make sure that you pack plenty of water, some extra food to keep you powered up, and something a bit warmer than that AC/DC tank top that you should have retired years ago. 

Could probably say a lot more about Old Rag, but will stop right here and simply say MAKE SOME PLANS!  We'll trust you to figure out the rest.  So pack up the car, grab some friends (or rent some) and get your butt moving, you'll be glad you did!

[ChristineK]

I went on the Old Rag hike too and it was tons of fun.  The summit is beautiful and a great place to take pics too!  I had never been scrambling over boulders before and it was tons of fun.  As someone who likes nature and a tough full body workout, I would say that it was an awesome day

ANd I told Channing not to wear that tank top...