From the Rapidan Road parking area at Big Meadows (about mile 51.3), walk down the Rapidan Fire Road about 1.2 miles, then follow the Mill Prong Horse Trail down to Rapidan Camp, about 3.3 miles in all. Return the same way, uphill the whole way back: about 1,100 feet.
The Park Service route from Milam Gap is shorter, 4 miles round trip. This one starts at Big Meadows instead.
Dogs allowed on a leash
Leash no longer than 6 feet at all times. NPS pet rules
Park entrance pass only
$30 per vehicle, good for 7 days, or an annual pass. NPS fees
Highlights
- President Hoover's 1929 summer camp
- Starts at Big Meadows
- Downhill on the way in
Before you go
- The whole climb, about 1,100 feet, comes on the way back.
- The Mill Prong Horse Trail is shared with horses.
- NPS publishes no time or distance for this route. These figures are our measurements, so leave extra daylight.
