Shenandoah National Park

Mary's Rock

A summit view above Thornton Gap, reached via the Appalachian Trail

Distance

3.7 mi

Elevation gain

1,210 ft

Difficulty

Moderate

Route

Out & back

Time

3 hr 30 min

Fee requiredDogs on leashViewsForest

A 3.7-mile round trip from the Panorama parking area at Thornton Gap, climbing the Appalachian Trail to a rock outcrop with westward views over the Shenandoah Valley and Massanutten Mountain.

Directions to the trailhead

The Climb

2,254 ft3,478 ft · +1,210 ft gain

What to Expect

Parking: Panorama parking area at Thornton Gap, Skyline Drive mile 31.6, at the US-211 crossing.
Fees: Standard park entrance fee applies.
Dogs: Permitted on leash
Best seasons: spring, fall
Water: No water sources on trail; carry water in
Cell service: Generally reliable near Thornton Gap; spotty along the ridge
Hazards: Rock outcrops near the summit are exposed and eroding; stay on the marked trail