Are dogs allowed on Dickey Ridge Trail?

Yes, dogs are allowed on Dickey Ridge Trail but must be kept on a leash at all times. Pack out waste and respect wildlife.

Do I need a permit to hike Dickey Ridge Trail?

No, Dickey Ridge Trail does not currently require a permit. Still check for seasonal closures or day-use fees with the managing agency before heading out.

How difficult is Dickey Ridge Trail?

Dickey Ridge Trail is rated expert. It is 18.0 miles long with 4,026 feet of elevation gain. Difficulty ratings reflect a combination of distance, elevation gain, and terrain — your experience will depend on your fitness level and trail conditions.

What is the best season to hike Dickey Ridge Trail?

Dickey Ridge Trail is best hiked in spring and fall. Conditions vary year to year — check the trail status and weather forecast before your visit.

Is Dickey Ridge Trail suitable for kids?

Dickey Ridge Trail is not typically recommended for young children due to length, exposure, or technical terrain. Older kids with hiking experience may be fine — use your judgment based on your family's comfort level.

Status unknown — verify before visiting

We don't have current condition data for this trail. Check with the land manager before you go.

See Virginia trail conditions

ExpertOut and Back

Shenandoah National Park/Virginia

Dickey Ridge Trail

Front Royal, Virginia

18.0 mi

Distance

4,026 ft

Elev. Gain

7h 53m

Est. Time

Out & Back

Route Type

Expert

Difficulty

About This Trail

Dickey Ridge Trail is an 18-mile out-and-back trail located in Shenandoah National Park near Front Royal, Virginia. The trail features a significant elevation change of 4,026 feet, indicating a challenging hike suitable for experienced hikers. The dirt surface trail winds through the park's diverse landscapes, offering potential views of the surrounding ridges and valleys. As it traverses varying elevations, hikers can enjoy the ecological diversity typical of the Mid-Atlantic region.

Trail Conditions

Unknown

We have no current condition data for this trail. Check with the operator before you go, and submit a report below if you've been recently.

No recent condition reports. Be the first to share what you see on the trail.

Hazards & Warnings

steep elevation gainpotentially uneven terrain

Elevation Profile

Min:189 ft

Max:784 ft

1,227 ft

Trail Details

Dogs on leash

Route Type: Out & Back
Surface: Dirt

Official sources & verification

Managed by National Park Service

Verify before you go

Source of truth

National Park Service unit page
Alerts, conditions, and the unit's plan-your-visit page.

Verify by phone or mail

Operator:540-999-3500
Address:Shenandoah National Park, 3655 U.S. Highway 211 East · Luray, VA · 22835

Best Seasons

Spring Fall

Highlights

forest settingviews of ridgesdiverse ecology

Reviews

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Legacy import — verify before navigating

Path geometry came from our pre-launch legacy database. Routes have not yet been re-verified against the operator and may differ from the actual trail.