Shawl Gap and High Peak Loop

The most common starting point for this loop is a trailhead that often requires a final mile to a mile and a half road walk along Panhandle Road to return to your vehicle. While the road is mostly dirt and experiences light traffic, be aware of your surroundings.

The terrain is varied and challenging. You'll start on what was once a jeep road before transitioning to singletrack. Expect 'rock gardens,' 'steeper sections,' and a very rocky, uphill path along the ridge to High Peak. Some parts feature stone stairs and side-cut trails. Good boots and poles are recommended, especially when wet leaves are present.

Komoot rates this as a moderate hike, but hikers should be prepared for a strenuous experience. It involves significant elevation changes and rocky, uphill climbs that will test your 'climbing legs and rock skills.' Expect quarter to half-mile stretches of 15% grades going up and down the ridge, particularly on the direct ascent towards High Peak.

This loop offers great views, especially from the ridge. You'll get expansive views of the Shenandoah Valley to one side and Fort Valley to the other. During winter, when leaves are down, you can even spot a horseshoe bend in the Shenandoah River. The trail also passes through mountain-top Laurel and Pine forest areas, with heavily lichened rocks and deadwood adding to the scenery.

Yes, the route follows sections of several well-known paths. You'll hike along portions of the Massanutten Trail, Tuscalachian Loop, and the Tuscarora Trail. The descent often utilizes the Sherman Gap Trail, and you might also encounter sections of the Botts Trail and Shawl Gap Trail.

Yes, dogs are generally permitted on trails within the George Washington and Jefferson National Forest. However, they must be kept on a leash at all times to protect wildlife and ensure the safety of other hikers.

While enjoyable year-round, winter offers unique advantages with expansive views of the Shenandoah Valley and Fort Valley due to the absence of leaves. However, the trail can be more challenging with wet leaves or ice, requiring good traction. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful foliage, though views might be more obscured by leaves.

Generally, there are no permits or fees required for day hiking on trails like the Shawl Gap and High Peak Loop within the George Washington and Jefferson National Forest. However, it's always a good idea to check the official US Forest Service website for any specific regulations or alerts before your visit, especially if planning an overnight trip or using developed recreation sites.

The primary highlights of this loop are Shawl Gap and High Peak. The ridge walk between these points offers the most rewarding views. You'll also be traversing sections of the historic Tuscarora Trail.

A common and recommended route involves ascending the yellow-blazed Shawl Gap Trail, enjoying the ridge walk on the blue/orange-blazed Tuscarora/Massanutten Trail towards High Peak, and then descending via the pink-blazed Sherman Gap Trail. Be aware that the loop often concludes with a road walk back to the trailhead.