Old Rag Trail is unlike most of Shenandoah's hikes. Instead of beginning at the ridge along Skyline Drive and descending, Old Rag begins at the bottom of the mountain and climbs an impressive 2,380 feet to an elevation of almost 3,300 feet. The trail is very rocky and the slopes can be quite steep. This trail does require a fee for individuals 16 years and older. A honor-system collection box is located at the trailhead.

From Front Royal, VA, Skyline Drive travels the entire length of Shenandoah National Park. Mile markers are placed along the right-hand side of the road heading south. They are numbered from north to south beginning at the northern terminus in Front Royal, Virginia. Facilities, trails and park features use the mile markers as points of reference. Leave Skyline Drive from the Thornton Gap (mile 31.5) heading east on Rt. 211. Travel Rt. 211 for approximately 7 miles turning south on Rt. 522. Go less than a mile and turn right on Rt. 231. Travel Rt. 231 about 7 miles and turn right again, heading west on Rt. 601. Rt. 601 blends into Rtes. 600 and 707. Once the road blends, travel approximately 2.5 miles making a left turn and traveling only .3 mile to the parking area, trailhead and collection box.

Probably Shenandoah's most popular and scenic hike.