Riprap Loop in Shenandoah National Park, VA

Hike Riprap Loop Shenandoah National Park, VA

Class 1 9.2 miles 2300 gain 4-6 hrs Loop May 21, 2016
Effort
Beauty
Personality
Solitude

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The Riprap Loop in Shenandoah National Park offers a lot of great scenery and variety. We headed counter-clockwise, first starting along the Appalachian Trail going north before turning left onto the Riprap Trail. A short section along the northernmost portion of the loop leads through the forest to a viewpoint called Chimney Rock. Past here the trail descends south through a hollow as it passes numerous waterfalls and lovely water sounds. One of the highlights of the hike is at the top of a waterfall where the walls are narrower.

Continuing to the left at a junction to begin ascending Wildcat Ridge as it makes its way back to the Appalachian Trail. The AT heads north back to the parking lot, paralleling Skyline Drive.

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A scenic overlook shortly after starting the hike.
A scenic overlook shortly after starting the hike.
Along the northern portion of the ridge along the Riprap Loop.
Along the northern portion of the ridge along the Riprap Loop.
Chimney Rock overlook.
Chimney Rock overlook.
The overlook.
The overlook.
Continuing along the ridge, some nice views.
Continuing along the ridge, some nice views.
A pretty waterfall nestled beside a narrow watercourse.
A pretty waterfall nestled beside a narrow watercourse.
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Ascending along Wildcat Ridge.
Ascending along Wildcat Ridge.
Making our way back to the Appalachian Trail, which we'd take back to the trailhead.
Making our way back to the Appalachian Trail, which we'd take back to the trailhead.
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Hire me or show me some love!

Hire/refer me as a web developer or send me a few bucks if you find my site useful. I’m not sponsored, so all fees are out-of-pocket and my time preparing trip reports is unpaid. I really appreciate it!