Hike to Compton Peak

This unique hike on the Appalachian Trail in Shenandoah National Park is 2.4 miles round trip with an 835' elevation gain, and leads you to two viewpoints as well as a cool rock outcrop.

Access this hike from the Compton Gap parking area (elevation 2,145') on the Skyline Drive at Mile 10.4. Cross the Skyline Drive and take the white-blazed Appalachian Trail south for a moderate but rocky 0.8 miles.

At this point you'll come to a T-intersection with a concrete trail marker. At this marker the Appalachian Trail continues straight, and there are two blue-blazed trails, each 0.2 miles, that break off to the right or left. Turn right at this intersection and hike 0.2 miles to a viewpoint on a rocky outcrop. Views are oriented North with a 180 degree visibility.

Return to the intersection with the Appalachian Trail and continue straight across the trail on the other blue-blazed trail. This 0.2 mile trail descends very quickly and is quite steep and rocky. You'll come to a large boulder with a blue blaze leading to the top. Climb up the boulder for a nice viewpoint; however, parts of the view are obstructed by trees.

Climb down the boulder and descend around the left side of the outcrop to the bottom. Here you'll see one of the best geologic formations in Shenandoah National Park: 700 million year old columnar joints, which are ancient lava that cooled quickly and shrank into hexagonal forms.

When finished, simply return to the T-intersection and turn right on the Appalachian Trail, heading north to Compton Gap and cross the Skyline Drive to return to your car.