Harrisonburg-Rockingham Trail Guide

Hike, Run & Ride

The Harrisonburg-Rockingham Trail Guide provides a collection of 15 of the most beloved trails in the area, from scenic gravel roads and peaceful wooded pathways, to challenging vertical climbs and heart-pumping mountain bike trails. With over one million acres of forest land, hundreds of miles of trails, and access to pristine waterways, the region has earned its distinction as the adventure hub of the Shenandoah Valley.

For a downloadable trail guide: Harrisonburg Trail Guide Final 2023

Land acknowledgement: The areas described on this guide are on the land once inhabited by the Mannahoac and Monacan.

Explore Hundreds of Miles of Trails

Click on one of the pins below to explore the trails.

More Outdoor Adventures

In addition to hiking, biking, and trail running, a variety of other heart-pumping activities keep adventure seekers engaged throughout the year. Climb a towering rockface to a stunning overlook. Venture into the backcountry in an overlanding rig. Journey through cave systems to unique formations, cavern rooms, and rare fossils. Watch for shooting stars, distant planets, and faraway galaxies on clear and cloudless nights. Fish at Virginia’s most famous fly-fishing destinations. Find common and rare species birds at one of the area’s many woodland sanctuaries and wilderness preserves.

Outdoor Adventure Basecamp

After a full day of exploring, gear up and fuel up in Harrisonburg, the Shenandoah Valley’s basecamp for active outdoor enthusiasts. Walk, bike, drive, or scooter down bike-friendly streets to restaurants, independently owned boutiques, and friendly, knowledgeable outfitters. Sample inventive cuisine at a contemporary restaurant or stop for a snack at a classic diner or barbecue shack. Listen to live music at one of eight craft breweries or two cideries or enjoy a show at a local performance venue.

Before Your Trip

Hiking and biking can carry inherent risks. You can reduce this risk with careful planning and good communication, and by following local laws and regulations. Carefully consider which trail to take based on your personal fitness, weather conditions, and time constraints. Click here for more information on trail safety and etiquette. 

Essentials

Pack the essentials, including extra layers of clothing, first aid supplies, flashlight, navigation, and plenty of food and water.

Wildlife

Do not approach wildlife. Wear insect repellent and check your body for ticks. Learn to identify unsafe plants.

Weather

Check the weather and be prepared for temperature changes and foul weather. Trail conditions can vary depending on the season.

Communicate

Tell someone your plans and let them know when you plan to return so they are aware if you are late due to a trail emergency.

Courtesy

Show courtesy and respect for fellow outdoor adventurers. Keep your noise level low and allow the sounds of nature to prevail.

Trash

Follow all Leave No Trace© principles closely. Deposit all trash in proper receptacles, or pack it out with you when you leave the trail.

Acknowledgement

Content, maps and photos for this trail guide by Village to Village Press, LLC, a specialized trail development firm based in Harrisonburg, VA. Funding for this trail guide was made possible through the Virginia Tourism Corporation Drive 2.0 program.