Lower Rapidan Trail

Trail Overview

Experience stunning scenery as you drive along amazing views of the Rapidan River. Enter off State Route 649, Quaker Run Road to Rapidan Road. This section travels through a portion of the Shenandoah State Park and transitions into the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR), open year-round, weather permitting, with heavier traffic during the spring and summer. This is an out-and-back trail that ends at private property. There are multiple places to pull off and park vehicles; enjoy the river views, hiking trails, trout fishing, and dispersed camping. Rapidan River is a fish-for-fun stream for recreation--only barbless hooks are permitted, and fish must be returned to the river. There is spotty to no cell service. While the trail ultimately leads up to and passes through the Rapidan Camps (www.rapidancamps.org), this is private property, marked clearly, where travelers should not drive unless it is their destination. There is a locked gate just past the camp, so while the road is reflected on maps, the gate is closed at the point where the Shenandoah National Park begins. Contact the information line at (540) 999-3500 for updates or visit www.nps.gov/shen.

Photos of Lower Rapidan Trail

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Difficulty

This is a dirt or rocky road with gentle grades. It's safe for most 4WD and high-clearance 2WD vehicles. The road is typically two vehicles wide. Some larger potholes can fill with water after rain or snow melt.

Technical Rating