The Peaks of Otter may be best known for Sharp Top, Flat Top and Harkening Hill, but there’s more to explore along this scenic stretch of the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Whether you want a serious climb or an easy walk, there’s a trail here for you. Let’s go. 

In this week’s newsletter: 

⛰️ Three classic Peaks of Otter summit hikes 

💦 Four more hikes with waterfalls, lake views and history 

🧭 Ranger-led state park hikes happening this weekend

Here’s to your next great hike. I’ll look for you on the trail.

—Erin Gifford 🥾

P.S. If you like what you see, please follow me on Facebook and/or Instagram.

Near Bedford, the Peaks of Otter include three classic Blue Ridge Parkway hikes: Sharp Top, Flat Top and Harkening Hill. 

All begin at or near the Peaks of Otter Visitor Center at milepost 85.6, but each offers a very different experience.

Rising to 3,875 feet, Sharp Top was once mistakenly believed to be Virginia’s highest mountain. We now know that this honor belongs to Mount Rogers. 

Choose this hike for dramatic summit rocks, far-reaching views and the classic Peaks of Otter experience. A seasonal shuttle can also shorten the climb.

Flat Top can be reached from Abbott Lake or from a parking area at Blue Ridge Parkway milepost 83.1.

Choose this hike for the highest of the three peaks, a longer workout and fewer crowds. The best views come from rocky overlooks rather than one open summit.

The 3,372-foot Harkening Hill can be reached by three routes, including a direct trail behind the visitor center.

Choose this hike for a quieter woodland climb or a route that combines mountain scenery with Balance Rock and historic Johnson Farm.

Sharp Top, Flat Top and Harkening Hill may get most of the attention, but they are not the only hikes worth doing near Peaks of Otter.

These four offer waterfalls, history, lake views and easier alternatives to a summit climb.

Fallingwater Cascades shares a Blue Ridge Parkway parking area with the Flat Top trailhead.

Choose this hike for a short waterfall outing with more challenge than a nature walk. Rocky cascades and shallow pools make it fun for families when water levels are good.

This paved, one-mile loop circles 24-acre Abbott Lake behind the Peaks of Otter Lodge.

Choose this hike for the easiest and most accessible walk at Peaks of Otter. The classic view of Sharp Top reflected in the lake is one of the best photo opportunities in the area.

The Apple Orchard Falls hike begins at Sunset Field Overlook near Blue Ridge Parkway milepost 78.

Choose this 2.9-mile round-trip hike for a longer, more adventurous waterfall outing with rocky scenery, wooden staircases and a dramatic 200-foot cascade.

The 2.1-mile Johnson Farm Trail leads to a preserved farmstead dating to the 1850s.

Choose this hike for an easy-to-moderate walk that combines mountain scenery with local history. It is a good option for anyone seeking more than a summit view. 

Many Virginia State Parks host ranger-led hikes on weekends. Most programs are free, though standard parking fees may apply.