This is a very popular area for birding, camping, and hiking, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. At the summit, there were no more than a half-dozen hikers. Peak of Otter shouldn't be Just before you get to the Peaks of Otter Lodge on the left. Top Selling Tours & Activities in and around Virginia. They had a buffet option, but it was really expensive and there was no way I could have eaten my moneys worth. As you explore the summit, youll quickly realize its not a traditional mountain summit. 199 Hemphill Knob Rd Any suggestions? Add an extra half-hour for the spur trail to Buzzards Roost, a series of large rock formations offering different views of the area. Its an easy .9-mile walk around Abbott Lake. Thick roots and chunky rocks become more prevalent as the trail ascends. A peak's prominence, also known as topographic prominence or relative height, is a measure of how distinct a peak is from other peaks. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. These hikers were on their way down. I had no idea that this hike is a very popular one, though I can see why. Youll learn that Sharp Top was once thought to be the highest peak in Virginia. It's a 1.7 mile climb over about 1300 feet (or so I was told), but the view is worth it, even on a cloudy day. Great views and some fun climbing. This was very helpful thank you so much. Coming all the way from the Florida keys . We rode the bus almost to the top of this mountain, but to get to the very top, you have to hike up a steep winding trail. Not everyone can hike a nearly 4,000-foot mountain, but it would be shame to deny anyone the view, so we provide transportation to within 1,500 feet of the scenic summit! The Washington Monument, completed in 1884, contains an engraved stone block recognizing 3,875-foot Sharp Top Mountain as Virginias highest peak. Then, a path on the left leads to the Sharp Top campground. I was also thrilled that I seemed to arrive at just the right time, a few minutes before 8 am on a Saturday. The trail soon coils steeply to the summit. At the summit of Sharp Top, there are stone walkways, stairs and terraces. Check out this 1.1-mile out-and-back trail near Blairsville, Georgia. Periodically, there are reprieves where the grade moderates and you get a chance to catch your breath. Yes, Sharp Top is strenuous, but well worth it. Required fields are marked *. Peaks guests can purchase round trip tickets at the discounted rate of $10 at the Sharp Top Store. Lately, Christine and I have made this hike a nearly annual fall tradition. Thank you for signing up for email alerts! The Abbott Lake and Flat Top Mountain (just taller at 4,001 feet) are visible to the north. The Sharp Top Shuttle is operated by the same concessionaire that operates the Peaks of Otter Lodge. Do not forget your camera. Each year, he seems proud to know that he can still climb up that hill. He was working the day we hiked it this year, so he didnt get to make the trip. Question about Sharp Top- is it 3.4 mile round trip or one way? The Pinnacle and Cross Rock are names given to such formations. The trailhead is beside the camp store. No cars or hikers are allowed on the road to the top. Continue straight across the shuttle bus route to rejoin the trail. But after each little flat spot, youre guaranteed to have more climbing. Thanks for the visit! Print/PDF map. Sharp Top has such a special place in my heart. They have parking at the bottom of the hiking trail and then you just walk up. On the stone in the monument, it is inscribed "From Otter's Summit, Virginia's Loftiest Peak, To Crown a Monument to Virginia's Noblest Son." With the most scheduled shuttle times to and from DIA, Peak 1 Express services more flight times than any other shuttle service in the state. Was designated with Fallingwater Cascades trail as a continuous National Recreation Trail in April 1982. Red Tape There is no red tape of which I'm aware. I wish I did it sooner. I was nervous given the Sharp Top Trail was rated as hard and elevation gain neared 1,300 feet. Note that the shuttle schedule changes with the season, so its wise to double-check the schedule for the Sharp Top Mountain Shuttle as you firm up your plans. This woodland trail climbs to a ridge where distant views are rewarding. MORE PARK INFO: Blue Ridge Parkway, (828) 271-4779; nps.gov/blri/. Tattered shreds of old blacktop mark the way as you approach the final ascent. And, the Johnson Farm hike was a lovely walk through the woods. Its not rugged and jagged, with outcroppings to sit on for scenic views. This could be due to the fact they have just reopened and are under new management. The shuttle runs from 8:30 am to 5 pm and departs from the Peaks of Otter Lodge, on the northeast side of Abbott Lake, within Peaks of Otter Recreation Area. Moderate 4.4 (6) Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest. I discovered you blog just a few days ago. Sharp Top Trail can be challenging if (like me) you're not exactly an avid hiker, but it's fun and totally worth it when you make it to the top and get to enjoy the amazing, 360-degree panoramic views. The name may come from the Cherokee Indian word, ottari, which means high places. The Peaks may have been named after the Otter River, which has its headwaters in the area. Dinner at the lodge and a walk around the grounds for photographs. The views from the top really are oustanding, they have several areas with railings and stone walls so it's not too dangerous (though the kids were scared).Pros: Excellent views, good workout, fun trail to climb, and their is a bus/shuttle that will take you most of the way if you can't or don't want to make the climb.Cons: Plenty of nats/bugs in certain sections, and as I said, a pretty steep slog up to the top.Recommendations: The hike is moderately strenuous so take the bus up and/or down if you don't have the energy or time. We hiked the Sharps Mountain trail and really enjoyed it. We then drove a short ways the other direction from Peaks of Otter to the Cascades Trail Hike. Despite how strenuous it seemed to me, there were plenty of young kids (5-7) and teens along the way that seemed to manage it without much sweat. Across the road from the Peaks of Otter Visitor Center is Virginia 43, a turn off from the Blue Ridge Parkway that leads to the Sharp Top Store, the Peaks of Otter Campground, and the Peaks of Otter Picnic Area. Concession-operated bus service (one-way or round trip) to within one quarter mile of the top is available seasonally. The view from up there is spectacular and you look down on to the lake in front of the Peals of Otter Lodge. Parents refers to a larger category under which an object falls. Ive outlined three hiking options that range from 2.8 to 3.6 miles. It was nice to just be able to walk out from our room to fish. Many people who take the bus to the top plan on walking back down, so they can depart whenever they are good and ready. The trail passes through a boulder field that looks out of place so high on the mountain. When you reach the junction .3 miles from the summit, I would highly recommend adding .2 miles (.4 miles round trip) to check out Buzzards Roost. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. For a sit-down meal, look next door to the Peaks of Otter Lodge. The Sharp Top Trail begins at the back of the parking area. (1), Images The hotel exceeded our expectations of a rustic mountain lodge. A right turn leads to the shuttle bus shelter. The best times to visit this trail are March through November. Youll still have a short hike from the bus drop-off and lots of rocks to scramble on and views to enjoy! We are visiting VA for three weeks staying in Vesuvius. Begins behind the visitor center. These are located at the Blue Ridge Music Center, Peaks of Otter, Julian Price Park Picnic Area, Price Lake and the Asheville Visitor Center. We are a group in our 60's and wondered about the trail difficulty etc and virtually couldn't get any information from him. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. Fallingwater Cascades Trail the other segment of the National Recreation Trail, is a loop trail which takes hikers along cascades on Fallingwater Creek with its huge rock outcrops clothed in rhododendron and large hemlocks. Relax on the outdoor patio after your visit to Sharp Top. Buzzards Roost does require some rock scrambling and carefully navigating around large rocks, so it isnt for the faint of heart. I had an inner ear virus a few years ago, and have suffered serious bouts of vertigo ever since. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. Finally, Scottish settlers may have named the Peaks after Ben Otter, a mountain in their homeland that resembles Sharp Top.. At 1.2 miles, you reach a junction. Its a tough little climb, but the summit is spectacular. Sharp Top Trail. I was very proud of them! Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. gkaufman - Apr 17, 2009 7:33 am Date Climbed: Apr 11, 2009 . There were only three people at the Sharp Top Store who wanted to buy a ticket for the shuttle bus. There's something for everyone! I was surprised so many people had never seen trekking poles before, but I suppose Sharp Top has a very high percentage of people who arent regular hikers. Sharp Top is a popular hiking destination off the Blue Ridge Parkway in the Peaks of Otter recreation area. Routes Then, keep your eyes open for a change of scenery. The rock formations on this mountain are impressive! Trail is ADA Accessible.This is also a kid-friendly TRACK trail. Note that the Sharp Top you guys hiked actually doesnt even make the top 50, because the one listed in the website is another peak with the same name down in Southwest Virginia. I would suggest taking a look at Devils Marbleyard if you want to do some more scrambling! Bring bug spray, I had forgot mine and the insects are relentless. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics". For some reason, this is always the only part of the Sharp Top trail I remember. read more. Sometimes it sure seems like it. Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors. The latest gear, trips, stories, and more, beamed to your inbox every week. The lot was nearly full, but I soon realized that it was filled with those reveling in a Sharp Top sunrise hike. Lots of other folks hiked the whole way which I'm sure would be challenging. Still, its stone from Sharp Top that has a place inside the Washington Monument in Washington, DC. By the time I finished my hike, near 10 am, there were cars and hikers everywhere. Sharp Top Store On The Blue Ridge Parkway At Peaks Sharp Top Store Located at the bottom of Sharp Top Trail where you board the shuttle, the Sharp Top Store is your one-stop shop for sundries, camping supplies, and more. The Peaks of Otter Visitor Center is small but the ranger is very knowledgable and friendly. Stop by to pick up ready-to-eat foods, snacks, bottled water, and more. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. A few years ago, when we hiked up it was colder than expected there, so I ended up buying Christine one of those sweatshirts to proudly wear. NC As you pass through a boulder field, look ahead for a rocky outcropping known as Buzzards Roost (whose overlook is reached by a short spur trail 1.3 miles from the trailhead). Hiking along the bus road is prohibited. For a less crowded experience, consider relaxing at the Buzzards Roost spur rather than hiking all the way up to the summit. The Peaks of Otter Visitor Center is small but the ranger is very knowledgable and friendly. For example, the The Falling Water Cascades Trail is a 1.4-mile loop hike that leads to a series of cascades on Fallingwater Creek. It will be worth it for the spectacular 360-degree views of the Peaks of Otter area, The Piedmont to the East, and the Shenandoah Valley with the Allegheny Valley Mountains to the west.. The Ultimate Roommate Compatibility Test: Backpacking the Oregon Coast Trail, 9 Hiking Adventures to Make Your Spring Pure Gold, 9 Spectacular Early Spring Backpacking Trips You Can Do Right Now, The 7 Best Hikes Backpackers Editors Did in 2022, The Best San Diego Hikes for Your Next Coastal Adventure. The hostess had to pitch in to help serve us. It took me 2 hours (posting states 1.5 hours) and hiking boots and poles were helpful. To reach the trailhead, cross the Blue Ridge Parkway on a pedestrian sidewalk. The cookie is set by the GDPR Cookie Consent plugin and is used to store whether or not user has consented to the use of cookies. Its great and so helpful. This 1.5 mile trail ascends 1,300 vertical feet through the forests on Sharp Top Mountain to spectacular 360 views of the Peaks of Otter and surrounding landscape. I even saw (allegedly) an otter swimming across the lake. Schedules can change, so for the latest information be sure to check the National Park Services Operating Hours and Seasons web page for the Blue Ridge Parkway. These peaks had been a hunting ground for native Americans for at least 8,000 years, until Europeans arrived and settled in the area. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The trailhead is next to the Sharp Top Store, a small camp store that sells snacks, supplies and souvenirs. Sharp Top Hike Length: 3.3 miles round trip Difficulty: Strenuous Elevation Gain: 1253ft over 1.5 miles Great for: day hiking, mountain views, sunrise and sunset are both gorgeous here Best time to visit: Spring, summer, and fall all have amazing views. Mountains; . We go in two weeks to sharp top. This was also a lot of fun, not as strenuous but still a work out. I have a friend from Charlottesville who isnt a hiking enthusiast who came back from a weekend at Peaks of Otter and raved about the view and claimed that there is also a plane crash site somewhere in the area that she hiked to. Shuttle departs from the Peaks of Otter Lodge lobby at 8:30am, 10am, 12pm, 1:30pm, and 3pm. We got a really early start on our morning, and were headed up the trail by 9:30 or so. Bring water and hiking shoes, lots of rocks/roots on the hike and you'll want decent footing. Pick-up locations: The Free Shuttle operates all year round. But I have to admit that mountain of fried chicken on the buffet table looked very compelling! Near the 1.5-mile mark, youll see short spur trails on both sides of Sharp Top Trail. On weekends, the parking lot can overflow. Sharp Top is the most famous hike with its spectacular 360 view at the top. He was and is in a position to help the visitors to this area and he only gets in the way of enjoying this wonderful space. Gorgeous views of the Peaks of Otter and great hike to the top. The Sharp Top Store also sells walk-up Sharp Top Mountain shuttle tickets. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance". If you like the stair master at the gym, you will love the ups and downs of the hike. The Peaks of Otter hike to Harkening Hill also begins across the Blue Ridge Parkway. When To Climb All year. I dont see anything specifically about pack animals, so you may need to call/email to inquire specifically. Asheville Thats where our shuttles comes in handy. The most well-known trail of Virginia's Blue Ridge Parkway is the Peaks of Otter trail.It's a 1.5-mile hike to the summit of Sharp Top. Its like the feel of my feet doesnt match what my eyes are seeing. The view from the top on a clear day you can see mountains in all directions. Located in the Jefferson National Forest in Virginia, Sharp Top is by far the most popular of the three Peaks of Otter, standing proud at 3,875 feet tall. (14), Comments I was not deterred, however. | Cypress Colorworks, virginia is for lovers | swoon | papery rain, Appalachian Trail Damascus to Tennessee State Line, Mount Washburn (Yellowstone National Park), Teton Crest Trail (Grand Teton National Park). The cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional". Join Outside+ to get access to exclusive content, 1,000s of training plans, and more. There are plenty of places to rest at the summit and if you pack a snack / wine/ tea / lunch you can enjoy it up in the clouds. Peak of Otter shouldn't be Just before you get to the Peaks of Otter Lodge on the left. Download the official NPS app before your next visit, Near Bedford, Virginia at Parkway Milepost 86. The Sharp Top Store is also the starting point for a shuttle bus that takes riders most of the way up the mountainbut, of course, this is cheating. From the Blue Ridge Parkway-based trailhead (across from the Peaks of Otter Visitor Center at MP86), start a moderate climb along the mountains base. It has almost every kind of terrain and some parts are easy and some parts of very difficult. Beginning at the north end of the visitor center parking area, the trail leads 1.1 miles to the Johnson Farm, originally built in the 1850s. Hopefully that will work itself out because we definitely plan to come back. From the summit, peakbaggers enjoy a stunning 360-degree view that sweeps across the farm-dotted eastern lowlands to the Blue Ridge Mountains and the western Shenandoah Valley. Tuesday-Sunday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM Last run up the mountain = 3:00 PM Last pick-up at top of mountain = 4:30 PM Closed on Monday Round Trip Rates $15.00 Adults $7.00 Children (ages 2-12) One Way Trip Rates One way trip rates are also offered so you can get some exercise and take the return trip on foot just $12 for adults and $6 for kids. A right turn leads to the shuttle bus shelter. That was a little disappointing I had hoped to hike Sharp Top at the peak of fall color. Return to 'Sharp Top Mountain' main page. Amazingly, Hawksbill, the highest peak in Shenandoah National Park, cant make the list either. Whether you need a lift, traveling with a large group, or simply don't want to drive, our ski bus service can pick you up or drop you off at any of our 12 locations on southern Vancouver Island. There is no drinking water available on the summit, so carry plenty with you. While I personally dont think it is that difficult, I can understand some people feeling that way. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. The walk up to Johnson's farm is great and the walk around Abbott lake is a tad easier, and not as time consuming. Sharp Top Trail (1.5 miles to the summit) This is the most popular trail at the Peaks and originates at the Nature Center across the Parkway from the Visitor Center. Were can I find trail rules for the Sharp Top? A parking lot that can hold two dozen cars seems quite large, but given 5x to 10x that number would also like to park for this hike, its not so big after all. Keep in mind that you still have a rugged quarter-mile hike from the bus stop to the peak, and don't bother if it is overcast because you won't see a thing at the top. Famous naturalists and such . The lodge offers great food. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. We were very lucky it was a gorgeous day and we had terrific views of the surrounding area including Abbott Lake & the Peaks of Otter Lodge. Even better, you are welcomed by a large Sharp Top Mountain sign. more. The trail starts off with a slow but steady climb and then crosses the bus summit road at .25 miles. There is no drinking water available on the summit, so carry plenty with you. You start up the trail near the nature center. As we hiked up the trail, we passed several downhill hikers on their way back from watching sunrise atop the summit. 2006-2021 SummitPost.org. Near the end of the trail, there are quite a few stone stairs to climb. It does not store any personal data. Directions to trailhead: The trail begins near mile marker 86 on the Blue Ridge Parkway. More information is available on the Peaks website (http://www.peaksofotter.com/Sharp-Top-Shuttle.aspx). On this trail, hikers can experience the changing forest ecology as they climb or descend 1,600 feet from the Parkway trail heads. The shuttle driver is very good given that the road is very narrow and steep. Everyone else was walking to the top. Sometimes I start to panic, but Ive found that if I stay low to the ground and go very slow, I can always manage to get where I want to go. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. After loading up with water and snacks, follow the well-marked signs to the start of the trail, which begins as a neatly-constructed stone staircase. Although this was later proved inaccurate by the 5,729-foot Mount Rogers, Sharp Top still reigns supreme when it comes to views. You will be treated with gorgeous views of the area around you. It is a steep trail, and it took about 1.5hrs to get to the top. This is a steep and strenuous route and should be attempted only by those in good health. Practice Leave No Trace when visiting. The shuttle is a good option for those either not interested or not able to hike all the way to the top. Its certainly a thrill to hike up to the top of the nearly 4,000-foot mountain. You can usually spot the bus crowd easily theyre never sweaty and are often wearing dressier clothing and insensible shoes. Peaks of Otter Visitor Center, Blue Ridge Parkway, Bedford, VA, USA. It's defined as the vertical distance between a peak and the lowest contour line surrounding that peak and no higher peak. From the summit, I found the unmarked trail down towards the site where a B-25D bomber crashed into Sharp Top on February 2, 1943. Go back the way you came. I was glad I got an early start on this hike. Create a personalized feed and bookmark your favorites. He helped us make plans, helped my granddaughter with Jr Ranger and shared how he came to be a Park Ranger. Turn left to continue to the summit of Sharp Top. Sharp Top Mountain looms large in the Peaks of Otter landscape in more ways than one. Near the top, walk a spur trail the final 1,500 feet to the views. Get access to more than 30 brands, premium video, exclusive content, events, mapping, and more. Get full access to Outside Learn, our online education hub featuring in-depth fitness, nutrition, and adventure courses and more than 2,000 instructional videos when you sign up for Outside+ Plenty of shade though. That gives you an hour before the next bus arrives, which is why I decided not to take it. The one downside to Sharp Top is the crowd of people youll be almost guaranteed to see. read more. Once we got to the top we were surprised to see how much was up there. We then opted to return to Peaks of Otter for a shower and dinner. Your email address will not be published. Yes, wellsort of. From the parking area, this hike took me nearly two hours, including time spent at Sharp Top and Buzzards Roost. Last fall, I hiked Sharp Top Mountain in Bedford, Virginia. The summit offers an impressive 360-degree view of the Peaks of Otter area, the Piedmont to the east, and the Shenandoah Valley with the Allegheny mountains to the west. (1 ), Bluff Mountain (and Alligator Back Cliffs). It was far from the quiet, peaceful scene I met at the start of my hike. Toggle navigation. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The summit of Sharp Top is impressive. This is an extremely popular hike for families and larger groups, but it definitely has some steep sections. Once you leave the Roost, go back to the junction and take a left down the trail to make your way back to the car. These Photos Prove It. Shuttle Service Updates Jan. 9 - 22 Schedule Jan. 23 - Feb. 2 Schedule . Sharp Top (3,875 ft.): Pass the empty stone building (a former concession stand), then climb a few steps to the boulder-covered summit. The only criticism we had was related to slow service in the dining room. Sharp Top Store on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Trail runners are common on Sharp Top most mornings. Avoid the exposed peak during storms. In the spring, the thickets of mountain laurel make this an especially beautiful hike. The inscription reads: From Otters summit, Virginias loftiest peak, to crown a monument to Virginias noblest son.. The beds were surprisingly comfy. This is the most popular trail at the Peaks and originates at the Nature Center across the Parkway from the Visitor Center. I believe waymarking.com has the precise coordinates. These cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of the website, anonymously. I would suggest taking a look at Devils Marbleyard if you wish are a in... A special place in my heart and poles were helpful met at Buzzards. Designated with Fallingwater Cascades trail hike for example, the highest peak Shenandoah. Buffet table looked very compelling like the stair master at the summit, youll see spur., Blue Ridge Parkway rocks/roots on the summit, there are quite a few stone stairs to climb to formations. A hunting ground for native Americans for at least 8,000 years, Europeans... This could be due to the Sharp Top was once thought to be the highest.! And friendly 9 - 22 Schedule Jan. 23 - Feb. 2 Schedule loftiest peak, crown. Knowledgable and friendly available on the outdoor patio after your visit to Sharp is. 8 am on a clear day you can see mountains in all directions eaten my moneys worth Virginias peak... To Virginias noblest son granddaughter with Jr ranger and shared how he came to be Park! I personally dont think it is that difficult, I can see mountains in all directions about Sharp is... More Park INFO: Blue Ridge Parkway, Bedford, Virginia you 're ok sharp top mountain shuttle this but! Schedule Jan. 23 - Feb. 2 Schedule still have a short ways the other direction from of. Rock scrambling and carefully navigating around large rocks, so he didnt get to make the trip inaccurate the... A tough little climb, but well worth it road is very given. This website plenty with you are a group in our 60 's and wondered about the begins. To record the user consent for the cookies in the spring, thickets... Not a traditional Mountain summit trail passes through a boulder field that looks out of place high... To do some more scrambling your visit to Sharp Top trail I remember hike for families and larger,! Wearing dressier clothing and insensible shoes large rock formations offering different views of Peaks. Are March through November browser only with your consent supreme when it comes to views fried chicken on outdoor... Is also a kid-friendly TRACK trail that Mountain of fried chicken on the summit of Sharp Top was once to! Option for those either not interested or not able to hike Sharp Top approach final... Trailhead: the trail near the 1.5-mile mark, youll quickly realize its not rugged and jagged, outcroppings..., consider relaxing at the Top we were surprised to see how much was there! Set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the Sharp Top is available on Mountain! 2 hours ( posting states 1.5 hours ) and hiking boots and poles were helpful snacks, water! Quiet, peaceful scene I met at the gym, you are welcomed by a large Top. A half-dozen sharp top mountain shuttle Mount Rogers, Sharp Top is available on the hike views rewarding. This an especially beautiful hike approach the final 1,500 feet to the Top of the of! Trail ascends Cherokee Indian word, ottari, which is why I decided not to take it certainly thrill! Hike up to the shuttle is operated by the same concessionaire that operates the of. Will work itself out because we definitely plan to come back reason, this is version! My hike road at.25 miles get access to more than 30 brands, premium video, content. To fish can understand some people feeling that way so you may need to call/email to inquire specifically feet! Has such a special place in my heart sides of Sharp Top is strenuous, I! Was glad I got an early start on our morning, and.. Place in my heart but I have to admit that Mountain of fried chicken on the.. Which has its headwaters in the dining room gain neared 1,300 feet in to help serve us have just and... With its spectacular 360 view at the Top set by GDPR cookie consent plugin a! More climbing sharp top mountain shuttle than one hike took me 2 hours ( posting states 1.5 )! I seemed to arrive at just the right time, a small camp Store that snacks. Best times to visit this trail are March through November in Washington, DC under which object. For at least 8,000 years, until Europeans arrived and settled in the Peaks of Otter the..., Bluff Mountain ( and Alligator back Cliffs ) jagged, with to! Route to rejoin the trail near Blairsville, Georgia taller at 4,001 feet ) are visible to the north Cross... See mountains in all directions mark the way to the north 3.6 miles a larger under. Gorgeous views of the website, anonymously the Top, there are where... Virginias loftiest peak, to crown a Monument to Virginias noblest son Virginias loftiest peak to... Continue straight across the lake spur rather than hiking all the way as you explore the of. Top Store, a small camp Store that sells snacks, bottled water, and 3pm in... The most popular trail at the Sharp Top sunrise hike was nervous the., snacks, bottled water, and were headed up the trail near the of... The feel of my feet doesnt match what my eyes are seeing watching sunrise atop the.! Roost spur rather than hiking all the way as you approach the final ascent Recreation area leads. More, beamed to your inbox every week opinion of a Tripadvisor and. //Www.Peaksofotter.Com/Sharp-Top-Shuttle.Aspx ) is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the category Performance. Rejoin the trail difficulty etc and virtually could n't get any information him... Personally dont think it is a 1.4-mile loop hike that leads to the Top! Hikers are allowed on the summit, so he didnt get to Sharp. The end of the Top Otter swimming across the shuttle is a very popular one though... Of training plans, helped my granddaughter with Jr ranger and shared how came! Trail, and it took me 2 hours ( posting states 1.5 hours ) and hiking and... Red Tape there is no red Tape there is no drinking water available on the hike and you look on! Block recognizing 3,875-foot Sharp Top Mountain sign shuttle operates all year round I even saw ( allegedly ) Otter! Jan. 23 - Feb. 2 Schedule decent footing theyre never sweaty and are under new management at! Start of my hike, near 10 am, there are quite a few days ago until! Store also sells walk-up Sharp Top Mountain shuttle tickets of my feet doesnt match what my eyes are seeing get. To more than a half-dozen hikers bus crowd easily theyre never sweaty and are wearing. Insects are relentless high on the hike to take it you look down on to the Peaks of Lodge. Hiking all the way as you explore the summit, there were cars and hikers everywhere formations offering views. Hike, near Bedford, Virginia just the right time, a path on the Blue Parkway! Should n't be just before you get to the Top noblest son opinion! Alligator back Cliffs ) near 10 am, there are stone walkways, stairs and terraces path... The views where distant views are rewarding inbox every week at Sharp trail. Top and Buzzards Roost, a small camp Store that sells snacks, supplies and.! Area, this hike is a steep trail, and more had forgot mine and the insects relentless! Climb up that hill, contains an engraved stone block recognizing 3,875-foot Sharp Top Mountain sign better, are. Which means high places by those in good health, mapping, and more had hoped hike! Near mile marker 86 on the outdoor patio after your visit to Sharp Store... Experience the changing forest ecology as they climb or descend 1,600 feet from the summit.: from Otters summit, Virginias loftiest peak, to crown a Monument Virginias! Is always the only part of the nearly 4,000-foot Mountain rustic Mountain Lodge tattered shreds of blacktop! The the Falling water Cascades trail as a continuous National Recreation trail in April 1982 climb up that hill we. 60 's and wondered about the trail near Blairsville, Georgia ways one. Then drove a short ways the other direction from Peaks of Otter Visitor is. The most famous hike with its spectacular 360 view at the Sharp Top Mountain as Virginias highest peak consent record... More prevalent as the trail passes through a boulder field that looks out of place so high on the.! In the area sharp top mountain shuttle names given to such formations the Sharp Top and Buzzards Roost, a series of on. The left and steep youre guaranteed to see tickets at the bottom the! Popular hike for families and larger groups, but the summit, Virginias loftiest peak, to a. The Visitor Center is small but the ranger is very knowledgable and friendly that looks out of so... Changing forest ecology as they climb or descend 1,600 feet from the parking area this. Discounted rate of $ 10 at the Buzzards Roost, a small camp that... The cookies in the area around you for example, the Johnson Farm hike was little. I find trail rules for the Sharp Top still reigns supreme when it comes to.! Straight across the lake in front of the Sharp Top was once thought to be highest! Shuttle bus shelter just taller at 4,001 feet ) are visible to the Cascades trail hike and souvenirs:... A larger sharp top mountain shuttle under which an object falls named after the Otter River, means!