AT, Virginia HT, Cabin Ridge Loop

Type of Outing: Hike
When: SAT 2/28/2026 9:00 AM
Signup Deadline: 2/26/2026 5:00 pm
Leader: Nicole Mazgaj
Distance: 10 miles
Difficulty: R-26, Moderate
Elevation Gain: 1600 ft.
Description: As winter is drawing to a close, it is time to return to this loop hike in the southwest corner of the Mt Rogers area. In the interest of full disclosure I must warn those of you who have not done it before that some hikers love this hike (I obviously do) and others won’t touch it with a 10-foot pole. Here is why. Although the loop takes us, for the most part, on familiar trails that crisscross the whole Mt Rogers area, such as the Appalachian Trail and the Virginia Highlands Horse trail, it also takes us on a fairly wide detour on the boggy, wet, rocky, and horse doodoo-strewn Cabin Ridge trail. It is a beautiful trail, shaded by rhododendron and mountain laurel groves, gradually ascending through a rain-forest-like environment toward Deep Gap, where it finally emerges to stunning panoramic views of the surrounding range; but navigating it offers its challenges, especially after a period of rain. If you are ok with getting your boots wet and caked with mud, and hopping here and there to navigate a sea of small and not so small pebbles, you will find this hike very moderate in terms of distance and elevation gain. And you will be surrounded by beauty the whole way. I recommend poles on this hike as there is a fairly significant stream crossing. PLEASE REGISTER ONLINE BY THE REQUIRED DEADLINE AND I WILL PROMPTLY GET BACK TO YOU WITH MEETNG PLACE AND TIME OPTIONS.
Required Gear: Poles