Shenandoah National Park

Riprap / Wildcat Ridge Loop

The South District's biggest loop, with a swimming hole and Chimney Rock

Distance

9.8 mi

Elevation gain

2,073 ft

Difficulty

Very Strenuous

Route

Loop

Time

7 hr

Fee requiredDogs on leashWaterfallSwimmingViewsRockyForest

A 9.8-mile circuit combining the Riprap Trail, the Appalachian Trail, and Wildcat Ridge Trail, passing Chimney Rock and one of the park's best swimming holes. Multiple stream crossings can run deep after storms or in spring.

Directions to the trailhead

The Climb

2,986 ft2,986 ft · +2,073 ft gain

What to Expect

Parking: Riprap Trail parking area at Skyline Drive mile 90, in the South District.
Fees: Standard park entrance fee applies.
Dogs: Permitted on leash
Best seasons: spring, fall
Water: Multiple stream crossings along the route; treat before drinking
Cell service: Unreliable for most of the route
Hazards: Five stream crossings that can run deep after storms or in spring; steep ascent near the top of Wildcat Ridge