Easy hikes and walks in Nelson County

Watch for sign, short detour from Appalachian trail

Humpback Rocks is a popular hiking destination due to its accessibility from the Blue Ridge Parkway and I-64. The trail leads to a greenstone outcrop near the peak of Humpback Mountain, with a summit elevation of 3,080 feet. The name comes from the "hump" in the rock formation, which gives the mountain its name, making it stand out from the surrounding, more vegetated peaks. While the views are spectacular, be cautious, especially when the rocks are wet, and try to overlook the occasional disappointing graffiti in some areas.

With a few different ways to approach the feature, Shamokin Falls is the most popular attribute on the Wintergreen Resort property. The Upper Falls Trail is by far the most commonly used trail for accessing the falls, but all the approaches have their advantages. The falls are gorgeous year round, but make sure to not climb on the rocks around the falls since the rocks get slick (and icy).

Towering over Virginia's Blue Ridge Mountains, the iconic greenstone outcroppings of Humpback Rocks offer trail runners a challenging yet breathtaking journey. Located just six miles from the Blue Ridge Parkway entrance near Waynesboro, the distinctive rocky summit of Humpback Mountain stretches 3,080 feet skyward. Despite the surrounding summits blanketed in vegetation, Humpback’s exposed gray stones create a visual “hump” for which it is named, beckoning runners to take on the steep slope.

The Priest rises from the Crabtree Valley, a mountain 4063 ft high; the highest peak in Nelson County. The summit is part of the Blue Ridge Mountains and offers stunning views of the the Priest Wilderness. To get there you have to follow Appalachian Trail through Crabtree Meadows, a relatively easy and family-friendly trail, however be aware that the road to the trailhead requires a high clearance vehicle.

FYIs: Arrive early to find parking. There are more spaces than most spots in the park but eventually after the grassy areas are taken up, you will not be able to find a spot! The parking is near the bottom of the falls. In early spring, large wasps and bees will be very busy. Snakes are also frequently seen on the trail so be careful. There are some steep stairs to climb, which may be very different to ascend and a but tricky to come back down from especially when holding heavy backpacks and leashed dogs. The wet rocks are VERY SLIPPERY! There are SEVERAL beautiful stopping points along the way up to the water fall. SOME are drenched from the spraying of the water from the falls so wear waterproof GRIP shoes! When reaching the middle of the falls where it flattens out a bit into small ponds and streams, you can cross the water and visit the other side and sit to have a snack. Moderate ascent to the top of the falls. (Stairs, winding paths, long stretches)

Crabtree Falls Trail is 2.5 miles in length and takes you to a very photogenic waterfall. The trail will mostly take you through a beautiful hardwood forest on your way to the falls. There are many ferns and wildflowers near the base of the falls, due to the water spray, which will also make the surrounding rocks wet, so it's advised to not climb on the rocks.

Crabtree Falls in a 70-foot waterfall and highest vertical-drop cascading waterfall east of the Mississippi River.