Blackrock Summit
About This Trail
Blackrock Summit is located off Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park, and offers a short, gentle incline to incredible 180 views, and a talus slope that is fun for kids and adults alike.
From the parking lot, the trailhead begins on the white-blazed Appalachian Trail. Turn left and follow the AT up a gentle but steady incline. Pass an intersection with the Blackrock Spur Trail and continue to the right. At approximately half a mile the trail will break out of the forest and runs along the bottom of a talus slope. Stop here for lunch and enjoy scrambling on the rocks; the best views are definitely from the top of the slope! Once you are ready to leave, continue along the bottom of the slope and follow the Blackrock Spur Trail back to the intersection you passed before; at this point reconnect with the AT and turn right and continue back to the parking lot.
Trail Features
| Surface type | Dirt |
|---|---|
| Stroller friendly | No |
| ADA accessible | No |
| Water fountains | No |
| Bathrooms | No |
| Cell reception | Spotty |
| Pet friendly | Yes |
| Nearby convenience store | No |
| Camping Nearby | No |
| Emergency support within 5 miles |
No |
Trail highlights
The talus slope is the biggest draw to this trail. The rocks are large and there are sheer drop-offs in places, but with appropriate supervision even very young toddlers and babies will have places they can explore, and older kids can practice risky play while taking in incredible views.
This trail has a Trail Tracks for Kids kiosk at the trailhead, where kids can get a brochure that teaches some of the flora and fauna native to the trail, and encourages kids to think like an AT thru-hiker.
Other Trails in Shenandoah National Park
Fee & Parking Details
Because this trail is located within Shenandoah National Park, there is a fee of $25 per vehicle to access the trailhead. To avoid this fee, you must have an annual pass to SNP, an annual National Parks Pass, or will have to hike in from outside the park.
Skyline Drive may close for inclement weather. Call (540) 999-3500 for up to date information on road closures.
Trail Contributor
I am the Branch Ambassador for Hike It Baby Chattanooga. A native of Richmond, VA, I spent most of my adolescence and early adulthood hiking and camping in the Blue Ridge Mountains, and once my children were born started taking them on adventures with me! I am a portrait photographer and freelance writer, trying to hike my way through all the trails southeastern Tennessee has to offer.
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Weather
Trail Map
Getting There
The trailhead is located at mile 84.4 off Skyline Drive
About The Guide