I know it must have been discussed before and I’ve done forum searches but I can’t seem to find my answer.
My partner and I are doing SNP in May and we will take two cars but I’m wondering where we can park them for 7-10 days?
We figure we’ll be north bound from Rockfish, heading toward Front Royal.
Anyone know where we can safely park anywhere near those areas?
Thanks - really looking forward to this hike - I’ve read a lot of good things about SNP on this forum!
Too-Dang
Chester Gap would be a good place to leave your car - it’s near Front Royal…Terrapin Station Hostel is there - you could prob park a car there. Also there’s a large parking area right at the trailhead (it’s not right on the AT but rather a horse trail but the AT is less than .5 miles). Check a map for specific directions - I can’t remember exactly.
Melissa
yeah, i can vouch for chester gap on VA 522, i’ve never heard of a car being vandalized there.
rockfish gap might be alright too, but i live closer to the former and therefore, i am more familiar with it.
have a great hike!
the goat
Hikers have been able to park at the Inn at Afton (former Holiday Inn) a few minutes’ walk from Rockfish Gap. Just be sure to check in with the desk clerk–they want hikers to park in specific places and sign a release form.
At the north end, the trailhead next to Terrapin Hostel is good. So is the 4-H Center in Harmony Hollow. Again, check in at the office to sign a form and find out where they want you to park. It’s usually close to the pool, and there is a blue-blaze up to the AT from there.
Skyline
on the rockfish gap side, a couple miles down the road, i forget the route number, there is rockfish gap outfitters. They were very thru hiker friendly when i went through there. you may be able to leave you car there and get a ride back up to the trail head or just give them a call and see what they recommend. Good Hiking!
ward
My wife and I have left our car at the Inn at Afton several times. There is no release form, but they do want you to leave your license #, name, emergency contact # and expected date of return. You do not have to stay there to take advantage of this trail angel action. We have also left our car at the 4-H center by the pool and had no problems there either. It is just a short .3 mile blue blaze from the AT.
Lost and Found
If you wanted to take one car you could leave it at Terrapin Station Hostel and Mike will take you back to Rockfish Gap, for a fee. His e-mail (last May)is gratefulgg@hotmail.com
Phil
You may want to try this site: http://appalachianTrail.rohland.org. It has a lot of information about where to park and access the AT.
Schmuttis