Best Hikes Around Lynchburg VA
There’s nothing better in central Virginia than exploring the lush, beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains. Virginia’s mild climate makes hiking possible nearly year round, though fall is sure to be the most popular time to visit with the breathtaking color of leaves.
No matter your age limit or physical shape, there’s a way for everyone to enjoy!
What You Should Know Before Hiking in VA
Make sure to dress in layers at every season, as mountain temperatures can vary with elevation. Check the weather forecast beforehand to prepare for any chance of rain. You’ll want to wear shoes with good support and have plenty of water and snacks on hand. (Most trailheads aren’t anywhere near a restaurant or convenience center.) The sun begins setting around 5pm in the winter, so make sure you can complete your hike by then or bring a headlamp or flashlight.
General temperatures per season:
Spring: 40’s-60’s
Summer: 60’s-80’s
Fall: 50’s-70’s
Winter: 20’s-40’s
We highly recommend downloading the app Hiking Project on your phone before you venture out. Not only can it do cool things like give you full GPS route info, suggest featured hikes, & track your progress, but if you get lost and lose internet connection, you’ll still have your map with directions.
Best Hikes near Lynchburg
COLE MOUNTAIN:
Also known as “Cold Mountain”
5-star high mountain meadow views, 5.9 mi heavily trafficked loop trail
Difficulty level: Moderate (do-able with kids and dogs on leashes!)
Distance from Lynchburg: 55 min
DEVIL'S MARBLEYARD
Great challenging hike with a huge boulder field to traverse at the top
3 mi out-and-back trail
Difficulty level: Intermediate/Difficult
Distance from Lynchburg: 1 hr
SHARP TOP
The most popular hike w/ awesome panoramic views at the top, steep hike to summit
3.3 mi out-and-back trail
Difficulty level: Intermediate-Difficult
Distance from Lynchburg: 50 min
FALLINGWATER CASCADES
Lovely and steep trail along a waterfall
1.4 mi loop trail
Difficulty level: Moderate
Distance from Lynchburg: 55 min
MCAFEE'S KNOB
One of the most iconic locations on the Appalachian Trail in VA, most photographed ledge at top
4 mi roundtrip
Difficulty level: Moderate-Difficult
Distance from Lynchburg: 1 hr 20 min
CRABTREE FALLS
Scenic & steep trail along a waterfall, moderate to strenuous
2.5 mi out and back
Difficulty level: Moderate-Difficult
Distance from Lynchburg: 50 min
Not up for hiking?
We recommend taking a scenic drive along the iconic Blue Ridge Parkway and picnic at one of the breathtaking overlooks.
Needing accommodations in the Lynchburg area or closer to the mountains? Search our 25+ properties for your next visit to LYH!