Hiking Collection by maniboyflex
Massanutten Trail loop — Forested ridges & scenic valleys
5 days
5-8 h/day
119km
3,310m
3,300m
Marked with orange blazes, the trail features long stretches of rocky terrain with steep ascents and descents through deep gap areas. Don’t underestimate it: this loop is as challenging as it is scenic, testing both your endurance and planning skills. Water is one of the biggest challenges on the Massanutten Trail. Reliable sources are scarce, especially along the western ridge, so careful planning is essential. It’s a good idea to carry at least five liters and refill whenever you find a reliable source, and it’s recommended to have a filter.
There are plenty of campsites along the Massanutten Trail, and this Collection is designed to guide you to finish each stage at one. No permission or reservation is required to camp here. Dispersed camping is generally allowed throughout George Washington National Forest, except in developed areas like campgrounds, picnic areas, or trailheads. If you need to create a new site, choose bare soil away from water and meadows. Avoid digging or leveling the ground; use a naturally flat, well-drained spot. Always pack out all trash, including toilet paper, and try to leave the site better than you found it. Black bears are common in the area. While encounters are rarely dangerous, proper food storage is essential. Never keep food in your tent, and always maintain a safe distance if you encounter a bear on the trail.
The trail crosses only a few roads, so you’ll need to plan your food strategy. You can either carry all your food for the full five days or arrange to resupply at road crossings. If you choose to resupply, you can cache water and food in bear-proof containers or coordinate with a friend to meet you along the way.
The Massanutten Trail can be hiked year-round, but summer is often hot and humid, and winter can be cold and muddy. Spring and fall offer the most comfortable conditions, making them the ideal seasons for this loop. The Massanutten Trail captures the quiet magic of the Appalachian backcountry. Expect to experience the trail's enchantment as you walk through mountains teeming with life, where moss carpets the rocks, fog curls through the trees, and the trail whispers with stories from the past. Its remote setting and demanding terrain keep foot traffic low, making it a perfect choice for those seeking solitude, training for longer thru-hikes, or simply looking to disconnect in the backcountry.
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Massanutten Trail loop — George Washington & Jefferson National Forests
110km
2,980m
2,980m
Last updated: April 20, 2025
Do it yourself!
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Ready to get going? Create and customize your own version of this adventure using the full route below as a template.
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Activities
1. Stage 1: Edinburg Gap to Strasburg Reservoir Campsite — Massanutten Trail
26.3km
07:22
460m
530m
Expert hike. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
2. Stage 2: Strasburg Reservoir to Little Crease Shelter — Massanutten Trail
23.1km
07:03
790m
870m
Expert hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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3. Stage 3: Little Crease Shelter to Camp Roosevelt — Massanutten Trail
26.3km
08:00
680m
650m
Expert hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4. Stage 4: Camp Roosevelt to Waterfall Mountain campsite
18.5km
05:56
720m
620m
Expert hike. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
5. Stage 5: Waterfall Mountain to Edinburg Gap — Massanutten Trail
24.9km
07:49
670m
630m
Expert hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
Collection Stats
Activities
5
Distance
119 km
Duration
36:11 h
Elevation
3,310 m
3,300 m
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