Barton Gap

Barton Gap Trail begins off Stoney Battery Road and has recently undergone revitalization by the National Forestry Service, including grading and fresh gravel throughout the route. The trail features 2-3 smaller emergency dispersed campsites, along with larger dispersed camping areas capable of accommodating multiple rigs comfortably. This serves as a fun and scenic alternate route off both the Mid-Atlantic Backcountry Discovery Route (MABDR) and the Virginia TransAmerica Trail. Four-wheel drive and airing down are generally unnecessary under normal circumstances, making it accessible to most stock SUVs and crossovers. The trail concludes with a small water crossing that adds a nice finishing touch without presenting a significant obstacle. Under current conditions, Barton Gap Trail would rate approximately 1/10 in difficulty, with the only notable variables being winter snow accumulation or the occasional downed tree after storms.