Hiking Sharp Top: Overview

Trailhead Location: Across the street from the Peaks of Otter Visitor Center off the Blue Ridge Parkway (milepost 86).

Length: 3 miles

Elevation Gain: 1,300 feet

Difficulty: Challenging

Hiking Time: 2 to 3 hours

Route Type: Out-and-back

Pet-friendly? Yes, must be on leash

Hike Features: Sharp Top summit and Buzzard’s Roost

Directions and Parking

Sharp Top Mountain is located in the Peaks of Otter area within the Jefferson National Forest in Virginia.

The Sharp Top Trailhead has a big parking lot that can hold about 20-30 vehicles.

Amenities at the trailhead include the Sharp Top Store, restrooms, and drinking water – available seasonally.

If the Sharp Top Trailhead parking area is full, you can park at the visitor center. Just be careful crossing the road!

Distance to Sharp Top Trailhead from nearby cities/towns:

• Bedford, VA: About 10 miles (20 minutes’ drive)
• Roanoke, VA: About 30 miles (50 minute’s drive)
• Lynchburg, VA: About 35 miles (50 minutes’ drive)
• Blacksburg, VA: About 70 miles (1 hour and 15 minutes’ drive)
• Charlottesville, VA: About 100 miles (1 hour and 40 minutes’ drive)

Best Time to Hike Sharp Top

The most popular time to hike the Sharp Top Trail is March through November. However, this is a great hike to do year-round with each season offering its own unique experience!

Spring (April to June): The trail is surrounded by vibrant wildflowers and lush greenery, creating a beautiful and refreshing atmosphere. The temperatures are mild, making for a comfortable hike, though it can still be a bit chilly at the summit in early spring.

Summer (July to August): Summer offers long daylight hours and vibrant greenery, but it’s also the busiest time on the trail. Arrive early to secure parking and avoid crowds. While the forest provides shade, the steep climb can be taxing in the summer heat, so bring plenty of water to stay hydrated.

Fall (September to November): Fall might be the most stunning time to hike the Sharp Top Trail! The Blue Ridge Mountains burst into a symphony of reds, oranges, and yellows, providing incredible views along the trail and from the summit. This season is very popular, so plan for crowds and consider a weekday hike for a quieter experience.

Winter (December to March): Winter hikes are serene and uncrowded, with clear, crisp air offering some of the best visibility. Snow and ice may coat the trail, creating a magical atmosphere but also slippery conditions. Proper gear, like hiking poles and traction devices, is essential.

In my opinion, fall is the absolute best time to hike Sharp Top, thanks to the breathtaking fall foliage and cooler temperatures. For a more peaceful experience, try to hike early in the morning or later in the day to avoid the crowds.

That said, even early in the morning, you might still encounter some visitors, especially during peak season. While it’s not as crowded as later in the day, you can expect a fair number of people at sunrise. However, the experience is still completely worth it.

My husband and I had the chance to watch the sunrise from Sharp Top’s summit, and it was truly unforgettable! Here’s a little tip: if the summit feels too crowded, take a short hike over to Buzzard’s Roost. It’s just a quick detour from the top, offering stunning views without the crowds.

✨ READ THIS: 15 Ways to Avoid Crowds in the Great Outdoors

Tips for Hiking Sharp Top

Start Early: Beat the crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures by starting your hike early in the morning, especially during peak season. Despite the popularity of watching the sunrise from Sharp Top’s summit, the crowds early in the morning will be more manageable than crowds later in the day.

Bring Plenty of Water & Snacks: The hike involves quite a bit of elevation gain, so bring plenty of water to stay hydrated. Also, bring high-energy snacks to refuel and help maintain your energy during those steep sections.

Be Physically Prepared: With a 1,300-foot elevation gain, be ready for a challenging ascent. Take your time and pace yourself.

Footwear and Gear: The trail involves rocky sections and lots of steps, so wear comfortable, sturdy hiking shoes (or boots). Also, hiking poles may be beneficial on the steep parts, especially when descending. Make sure you wear proper clothing for the season and bring layers just in case.

Sun Protection: Even though this hike takes you through a shaded forest, it’s always smart to take extra precautions and protect yourself from the sun, so wear sunscreen and SPF lip balm.

Be Bear Aware: Black bears are active within Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains. Follow these guidelines to avoid any negative interactions with a black bear.

Leave No Trace: Stay on the trail, pack out all trash, and avoid picking plants or disturbing wildlife. Help keep the Blue Ridge Mountains pristine for future hikers.

Sharp Top Shuttle

The Sharp Top Trail is a challenging hike that might be too demanding for casual hikers or families with young children. Fortunately, there’s a convenient shuttle bus option that allows visitors to enjoy the breathtaking summit views without tackling the strenuous climb.

The shuttle offers two choices: a round-trip ride up and down the mountain, or a one-way trip for those who still want to enjoy a bit of hiking.

The shuttle runs seasonally from May through October (schedule subject to change). It has a set schedule each day and requires a ticket which can be purchased at the Sharp Top Store. It drops passengers off just 0.25 miles from the summit, allowing for a short but scenic hike to the top.

For more details, including the schedule and pricing, check out their website HERE.

Trail Directions

Sharp Top Trail

Start your hike from the Sharp Top Trailhead parking area. The trail can be found to the left of the Sharp Top Store.

You will encounter many steps along the way! But don’t be discouraged, you can do it! Take breaks, drink plenty of water, and pace yourself.

As you make your way up the mountain, you will come to a junction in the trail. Let’s head to Sharp Top’s summit first – take a left at the junction.

Sharp Top Mountain

As you reach the summit, you will see a stone shelter first along with a sign providing more information about Sharp Top.

Continue up the steps to find an overlook to the left. The views are incredible here, but they get even better. Keep going!

At the summit, enjoy 360-degree views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the surrounding valley. On a clear day, the sights are breathtaking, making it a perfect place to rest and soak in the beauty of the area.

Sharp Top’s Plane Crash Site (optional)

Here’s a little secret – but keep it to yourself! Hidden on Sharp Top Mountain is a World War II B25 bomber crash site. While I won’t share the exact details on how to find it here, you can check out my dedicated blog post, where I provide all the information you need to locate this historic site.

Now a memorial, the crash site is a somber and significant place. If you choose to visit, please be mindful of its history and importance. Respect the area and follow Leave No Trace principles to help preserve this special spot for others.

Buzzard’s Roost (optional)

After soaking in the views at Sharp Top’s summit, head back down to the trail junction to continue your adventure.

For an extra treat, go straight to explore Buzzard’s Roost – one of my favorite spots in the Peaks of Otter area!

To reach the top, you’ll need to tackle a bit of rock scrambling, but the effort is well worth it. Buzzard’s Roost offers stunning 360-degree views that rival Sharp Top, with far fewer people around to share the space.

Keep an eye out for buzzards circling overhead – it’s likely how this spot earned its name. They didn’t bother me, so I assume they won’t bother you. 🤷🏻‍♀️

Retrace your steps back down the mountain to return to the parking area.

Congrats, you made it! 🥳

More Great Hikes Near Sharp Top

1. Harkening Hill and Johnson Farm (Peaks of Otter)

The Harkening Hill loop trail winds through lush forests, leading to a summit with peaceful views of the surrounding landscape. Along the way, you can explore the historic Johnson Farm, a preserved homestead showcasing Appalachian life in the 19th century.

• Trailhead Location
• Length: 4 miles
• Elevation Gain: 900 feet
• Difficulty: Moderately challenging
• Route Type: Loop
• Hiking Time: 2 to 3 hours
• Pet-friendly? Yes, must be on leash
• Trail Map

2. Flat Top Mountain (Peaks of Otter)

Flat Top, part of the Peaks of Otter, offers a rewarding hike to breathtaking panoramic views. The trail winds through hardwood forests, showcasing vibrant wildflowers in spring and stunning foliage in fall.

• Trailhead Location
• Length: 4.5 miles
• Elevation Gain: 1,700 feet
• Difficulty: Challenging
• Route Type: Out-and-back
• Hiking Time: 2.5 to 4 hours
• Pet-friendly? Yes, must be on leash
• Trail Map

3. Fallingwater Cascades (Peaks of Otter)

Fallingwater Cascades features a picturesque loop trail leading to a stunning waterfall. Surrounded by lush forest, it’s a peaceful retreat for nature lovers.

• Trailhead Location
• Length: 1.5 miles
• Elevation Gain: 450 feet
• Difficulty: Moderately challenging
• Route Type: Loop
• Hiking Time: 1 to 1.5 hours
• Pet-friendly? Yes, must be on leash
• Trail Map

4. Apple Orchard Falls

Apple Orchard Falls offers a scenic hike to a majestic 200-foot cascade. The trail winds through vibrant forests, offering beautiful views and seasonal wildflowers.

• Trailhead Location
• Length: 2.6 miles
• Elevation Gain: 1,000 feet
• Difficulty: Challenging
• Route Type: Out-and-back
• Hiking Time: 1.5 to 2.5 hours
• Pet-friendly? Yes, must be on leash
• Trail Map

5. Devil’s Marbleyard

Devil’s Marbleyard is a unique hiking destination featuring a massive boulder field surrounded by rugged mountain scenery. This adventurous trail rewards climbers with stunning panoramic views.

• Trailhead Location
• Length: 3.5 miles
• Elevation Gain: 1,400 feet
• Difficulty: Challenging
• Route Type: Out-and-back
• Hiking Time: 2.5 to 3.5 hours
• Pet-friendly? Yes, must be on leash
• Trail Map

6. Hay Rock

Hay Rock offers a scenic hike along the Appalachian Trail, featuring sweeping views of Carvins Cove and the Roanoke Valley. The trail is perfect for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.

• Trailhead Location
• Length: 8 miles
• Elevation Gain: 1,500 feet
• Difficulty: Moderately challenging
• Route Type: Out-and-back
• Hiking Time: 4 to 5 hours
• Pet-friendly? Yes, must be on leash
• Trail Map

7. McAfee Knob

McAfee Knob, one of Virginia’s most iconic hikes, features a stunning rock overhang with panoramic views of the Catawba Valley. It’s a must-see spot on the Appalachian Trail.

• Trailhead Location
• Length: 8 miles
• Elevation Gain: 1,800 feet
• Difficulty: Challenging
• Route Type: Out-and-back
• Hiking Time: 4 to 6 hours
• Pet-friendly? Yes, must be on leash
• Trail Map

Conclusion

Sharp Top Mountain is an iconic destination in Virginia, offering both a physical challenge and unparalleled views from the summit. Don’t miss the detour to Buzzard’s Roost, a quieter spot with stunning vistas and a touch of solitude. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a beginner looking for a new challenge, Sharp Top promises an unforgettable experience!

If this guide inspires you to hike Sharp Top, I’d love to hear about your adventure. Leave a comment and share your experience!