Chimney Top is a barely hidden gem in the Spruce Knob – Seneca Rocks National Recreation Area. From Northern Virginia it is about 2.5 hours to the trailhead. It is a pretty amazing spot that is definitely worth the effort.  Read on to find out more.

Chimney Top is a spur trail off the north end of the North Fork Mountain Trail. Parking at the trailhead is limited to 8-10 cars. Get there early on a nice day. The trail is blue blazed, and it is easy to follow. It climbs steadily for about 2.5 miles. The footing is a combination of dirt, large, and smaller rocks. Most of the time it requires your attention. The spur trail is on the right. There is a cairn at the intersection of the Chimney Top spur. It is hard to miss. This spur is short and quite steep.

360' Views

There is a 360' view at the top of Chimney Rock. On a clear day, you can see for miles. The rolling West Virginia Mountains are beautiful. My photos do not do the views justice. If you are ambitious, you can do some rock scrambling. However, there are amazing views right off the trail.

No matter what I write, it will not do this hike justice. I encourage you to make the effort to visit this area. Here are some helpful links.

First, for more information visit Spruce Knob - Seneca Rocks National Recreation Area website.

Next, Hiking Upward also has a great description.

Finally, please don't confuse this with Chimney Rock State Park in Maryland!