There’s something about the start of a new year that calls for wide views, steady climbs, and a little fresh perspective. Winter hiking strips the landscape down to its essentials—quiet trails, crisp air, and long sightlines across the Shenandoah Valley and Blue Ridge Mountains. Whether you’re easing back into outdoor routines or setting ambitious goals for the months ahead, these stunning hikes offer the perfect way to kick off the year, blending achievable challenges with unforgettable scenery.
A classic little gem just off Skyline Drive, Little Stony Man delivers panoramic valley views without demanding a full day. The route typically follows the Appalachian Trail and offers multiple lookout points — ideal for sunrise or sunset hikes.
Route: Little Stony Man Cliffs & Stony Man Summit
Why go: Short but scenic, this is a great intro hike to stretch your legs while soaking in sweeping Blue Ridge views. Perfect for a quick morning adventure.
Looking for a little adventure with your views? Bearfence packs a fun rock scramble and 360° panoramas into just over a mile. The route intersects with the Appalachian Trail and rewards climbers with sweeping Shenandoah landscapes.
Route: Bearfence Mountain Trail
Why go: Short, engaging, and highly rewarding — a great hike when you want a bit of challenge without committing all day.
Bearfence Mountain Trail is a 1.1 lightly trafficked loop trail in Shenandoah National Park. The rating is moderate and rock scrambling is required to reach the summit.
Virginia Tourism Corporation, www.Virginia.org
If you’re craving wide-open views and a satisfying summit, Big Schloss is a stellar choice. Ascend through forested trails to reach a rocky outcrop with far-reaching vistas into both Virginia and West Virginia.
Route: Big Schloss via Big Schloss Cutoff & Mill Mountain
Why go: Mid-distance and moderately strenuous, Big Schloss makes a fulfilling day hike with plenty of “wow” moments.
One of Shenandoah’s most beloved summits, Mary’s Rock offers sweeping westward views of ridges, valleys, and distant mountains. It’s about a 3.7-mile round trip with a steady climb and fantastic payoff at the top.
Route: Mary’s Rock Summit TrailÂ
Why go: A classic Shenandoah trek with stellar scenery — perfect for a brisk winter’s day if the trail’s clear.
Close to Lexington, House Mountain is a local favorite with two peaks — Little House and Big House. The climb delivers rewarding overlooks and a quiet forest atmosphere, great for shaking off the holiday hustle.
Route: House Mountain Trail
Why go: Easy access for folks near Lexington and a solid morning hike with plenty of reward for a relatively short, but steep, distance.
From rock scrambles and ridgeline overlooks to sweeping valley vistas, these hikes remind us why winter is such a rewarding time to hit the trail. Each route offers a chance to slow down, breathe deeply, and reconnect with the landscape as a new year unfolds. Lace up your boots, check trail conditions, and let these iconic hikes set the tone for a year filled with adventure, intention, and time well spent outdoors.
Header Image: Little Stony Man Cliffs in Shenandoah National Park. Photo by N. Lewis and Courtesy of National Park Service.
