. . . hiked up Old Rag Mountain, 80 miles from Washington in Shenandoah National Park. Old Rag, named for the appearance of its 3,268-foot granite summit, is among the region's most scenic hikes. It's also among the most popular, especially in the warm months and in the fall, when the leaves are changing. Go now, before the trail up through the rocks is jammed. As long as there is no snow, the nearly three-mile Ridge Trail to the summit offers few obstacles. There is some moderately challenging rock-scrambling near the summit, and that's where the warm-weather lineups begin. Best way down is via the fire road.
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Old Rag Moutain, Shenandoah National Park
From westbound Interstate 66, take Route 29 to Warrenton, then Route 211 to Sperryville. Follow Route 522 south. Right on Route 231. Right on Route 601. Follow signs to parking. Entrance fee is $5 for hikers 17 and older. 540-999-3500.
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Know of a uniquely Washington area experience, a place you always take out-of-towners or the thing you'd miss most about the region? haventlived@washpost.com
