Sharp Top Mountain
Sharp Top Mountain Trailhead, Sheep Creek Road, Bedford, Virginia, USA
Dawn to dusk
$
hikes
Happyly is better in app
Get the Happyly app to discover more activities like this one, plus get curated adveture plans, build lists of activities to try and more!
Enter your phone number to receive a download link
Sharp Top delivers a short, strenuous hike that is well worth it for the views.
Located in the Blue Ridge Mountains, on the Peaks of Otter, Sharp Top Mountain trail is a popular 3-mile out and back trail up to the top of the mountain. This is considered a strenuous hike with a steep elevation gain (1300 feet). This hike will definitely get your heart pumping. At the top, however the prize is worth it with the fantastic views being able to see for miles and miles. At the top there is a stone cottage shelter and several overlooks to get those amazing views. A popular time to hike is during the fall when the trees are in peak color season. However this generally brings more of crowd when hiking too. The hike is not stroller friendly and you will need a carrier. Bring a snack or lunch for when you reach the top. I would personally carry young children and plan for many breaks with young kids. Luckily with unique terrain, kids will enjoy climbing the rocks along the way, you can take a long break at the top, and the way back to the car is all down hill. You will start the hike at the Sharp Top parking area. There will be a sidewalk that leads to the Camp Store and the trail will begin to the left of that. The trail itself is un-blazed but well worn. It will be about a mile in before you come to the first overlook. Continue on the trail for another 0.3 miles and you will reach the Buzzard's Roost Trail. Bear left and go about 0.2 miles to the peak.
If you don't want a long hike, there is a shuttle at the Sharp Top Shop that will take you to the top. From the drop off point at the top, you will have to take some rock stairs to the final viewing point. Only Sharp Top Bus drivers are allowed on the road to the top. At the base of Peaks of Otter there is a small lake, restaurant, lodging, and lodge.
This hike is a favorite among locals and used daily. This will be one you will want to try out. Check out Sharp Top Mountain hike for your next family adventure. Always remember to practice Leave No Trace practices when hiking. Pack your trash in and out including compost items. Stay on trails and leave only foot prints and take home memories.