Near Compton Peak from Jenkins Gap
Viewpoint
Near Compton Peak from Jenkins Gap
Columnar basalt rock format at Compton Peak east.
Near Compton Peak from Jenkins Gap
View from Compton Peak west—Shenandoah River visible in the distance.
Near Compton Peak from Jenkins Gap
Great view
Near Compton Peak from Jenkins Gap
Trail stairs.

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Hike Route

Compton Peak from Jenkins Gap

4.5 (2 Ratings)
Compton Peak from Jenkins Gap parking area
3.3
mi
Distance
862
ft
Gain
easy
Difficulty
Geologically SignificantLess CrowdedViews

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
3.26mi
Distance
862ft
Elevation Gain
862ft
Elevation Loss
45%
Max Grade
2,923ft
High Point
2,337ft
Low Point
Path Type
There and Back
Description
The Compton Gap parking area is very busy on a Sunday afternoon, and is also across the main road from the trailhead. I missed the turn into the lot, but noted the lot looked very full, kept going and started from Jenkins Gap parking area. Only a few cars in the Jenkins Gap lot, and only saw one other couple (friendly AT thru-hikers) on the way up. Pleasant hike up an easy/moderate path through the forest on the AT. Everyone at the peak had started from Compton Gap parking area. Interesting basalt geological formation down the rocky trail east of the peak -- the steeper rocky trail to the formation was easily the most challenging part of the hike in terms of avoiding a twisted ankle. Worth the effort if you like geology!

Route Conditions

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Contributors
J H