From the Humpback Gap lot at Parkway milepost 6, the Humpback Rocks Trail climbs close to 800 feet in about a mile to the rocks. The Park Service calls it a strenuous climb with views of the surrounding area. Come back the same way.
To go further, the Park Service suggests continuing south on the Appalachian Trail one more mile to the summit of Humpback Mountain, a 4-mile loop with the Appalachian Trail north, or the 3.5-mile Jack Albright Loop from the same lot.
The lot is small and the Park Service says it is usually packed on weekends. The Humpback Rocks Visitor Center and Mountain Farm, 0.2 mile north, has more parking: walk through the farm and across the Parkway.
Dogs allowed on a leash
Leash no longer than 6 feet (36 CFR 2.15); the Parkway lists no trail closures for pets. Parkway pet rules
No Shenandoah pass needed
No fee is charged to travel the Blue Ridge Parkway, and no entrance pass is needed. Parkway fees
Highlights
- Rock outcrops with views
- About a mile each way
- No entrance fee on the Parkway
Before you go
- Steep the whole way: close to 800 feet in a mile.
- The trailhead lot fills on weekends; the visitor center lot is 0.2 mile north.
What to bring
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Navigation. A map, compass or GPS, with a paper map as the backup.
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Sun protection. Sunglasses, sunscreen and a hat.
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Extra clothing. A jacket, hat, gloves, rain shell and another layer for a change in the weather.
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Light. A headlamp or flashlight. A headlamp keeps your hands free.
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First aid. A kit suited to your trip and your own medical needs. Check it for expired items.
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Fire. Waterproof matches or a lighter and a fire starter. Check the fire rules first.
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Repair kit and tools. Duct tape, a knife or multi-tool, and scissors.
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Extra food. At least a day of extra no-cook, energy-dense food in case plans change.
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Water. Enough to drink before you get thirsty, and a way to treat water from streams.
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Emergency shelter. A space blanket, tarp or bivy sack against bad weather.
