Hiking
Hiking is allowed on open forest roads, gated forest roads, and on more than 1,925 miles of trails on the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests. Cross-country (off-trail) hiking is also allowed throughout the forest, except for signed areas that do not allow foot travel. Permits are not required to hike in the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests.
Many trails are open to multiple non-motorized uses; meaning the trails are shared by hikers, horse riders, and bicyclists. Information on allowed trail uses are available on trailhead signs and the National Geographic-Trails Illustrated map for the area, or by contacting the nearest Ranger District office.
Backpacking
Explore the several backpacking opportunities in George Washington and Jefferson National Forests including the famous Appalachian Trail. Whether you're roughing it in a tent or planning a family picnic, there are many ways to make sure that your experience is fun, safe and enjoyable. Follow these tips and guidelines for a successful adventure.
Be prepared
- Pack a first aid kit. Your kit can prove invaluable if you or a member of your group suffers a cut, bee sting or allergic reaction. Pack antiseptics for cuts and scrapes, tweezers, insect repellent, a snake bite kit, pain relievers, and sunscreen. Tailor your kit to your family's special needs.
- Learn ABC - Airway, Breathing, & Circulation. Know how to perform CPR and basic first aid. Recognizing serious injuries will enable you to attend to a victim until medical help arrives.
- Bring emergency supplies. In addition to a first aid kit, you should also have a map of the area, compass, flashlight, knife, waterproof fire starter, personal shelter, whistle, warm clothing, high energy food, water, water-purifying tablets, and insect repellant.
- Check the elements
- Check the weather report before you leave home. When you arrive at the site, keep on eye on the skies for changes and, if possible, carry a compact weather radio. In inclement weather, take shelter until the bad weather passes. Stay dry - wet clothes contribute to heat loss.
- Forest and grassland home pages post alerts you should know before you go. Many of our forests and grasslands also post alerts on social media.
General Hiking
Hiking is a wonderful way to see and experience the many wonders of our nation’s forests. Visit your forest’s ranger district office, our All-Maps page, or National Forest Store to obtain a trail map to help you plan your route based on your ability, available time and interest. Please follow these safety tips to ensure a safe journey.
- Being prepared includes knowing how to be a responsible hiker. Learn more on our Responsible Recreation page.
- Stay on marked trails.
- Don’t hike alone. Let the slowest person in your party set the pace. This is especially important when children are a part of your group.
- Leave your itinerary with a friend or family member and check in with them upon your return.
- Develop an emergency plan before you start your trip. Make sure everyone knows what to do if they become lost or a medical emergency arises. Give children whistles with the instructions to "stop and blow" if they become lost.
- Take frequent rests or vary your pace to maintain your energy level.
- Drink plenty of water, even on cool, wet days. Never drink your entire supply between refills.
- Wear appropriate clothing, including sturdy boots that are broken in and are comfortable.
- Consider using a hiking pole or walking stick to help maintain your balance in unlevel or hazardous areas.
- Be aware of your surroundings, and pre-plan your approach before hiking through more hazardous areas. Wet surfaces can be a hazard and even more so if it's on a slope.
- Consider what you'll do if you start to slide or fall so that you are prepared.
- If falling, do not try to catch yourself; try to avoid landing on your hands, elbows or knees. Landing on the side of your body is much safer.
- If the slope is such where you know you are going to slide, lowering your center of gravity, by sitting down and sliding on your feet or bottom, is safer.
- If sliding while standing up, keep your weight over your feet and bend your knees—do not lean back or forward while sliding.
Bring the essentials:
- Map
- Sunglasses and a hat
- Sunscreen
- Flashlight
- Waterproof matches
- First aid kit
- Water and water-purifying tablets
- High-energy bars, granola, candy, or fruit
- Extra clothing. Temperatures can change dramatically, particularly if there is an elevation change. For every 1,000 feet of elevation gain, the temperature often drops three to five degrees.
Day Hikes
On a day hike, extra weight wears you down and reduces your agility over uneven terrain. Always pack as light as possible.
Search for Hiking Opportunities
Ant Hill Trail (Forest Trail #422)
Anthony Knob Trail (Forest Trail #460)
Appalachian Trail
Apple Orchard Falls Trail (Forest Trail #17)
Austin Gap Trail (Forest Trail # 201A)
Back Creek Gorge (Forest Trail #516)
Balcony Falls Trail (Forest Trail #7)
Bark Camp Lakeshore Trail (Forest Trail #211)
Bark Camp Recreation Area
Bat Lick Trail (Forest Trail #641)