Buena Vista (US 60) → Waynesboro (Rockfish Gap, I-64)
Buena Vista to Waynesboro
60 mi · 4-5 days · Difficult
The Three Ridges and the Priest dominate this section — two of the biggest sustained climbs and descents in Virginia, often used as a training benchmark before longer trips.
It ends at Rockfish Gap, the southern entrance to Shenandoah National Park, with Waynesboro a short hitch or shuttle away and known for its hospitality to hikers.
Waypoints
| Name | Type | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| The Priest | View | A 3,000-foot climb or descent to the Tye River — one of Virginia's benchmark efforts.Shelter near the summit; water source is seasonal. |
| Tye River crossing (VA 56) | Water | Suspension bridge over the Tye River with trailhead parking on VA 56.River water must be treated. High flows after storms. |
| Rockfish Gap (I-64 / US 250) | Public transit | Southern entrance to Shenandoah National Park and the main access point for Waynesboro.Park-and-ride lot; hiker shuttle availability varies. |
Highlights
- The Priest
- Three Ridges Wilderness
- Crabtree Falls area
- Rockfish Gap
Road crossings
- US 60
- VA 56 at Tye River
- I-64 / US 250 at Rockfish Gap
Resupply
- Waynesboro — full resupply, outfitters, hostels
- Montebello — limited
Nearby towns
- Waynesboro
- Montebello
- Nellysford
- Charlottesville
Planning details
- Elevation gain
- Not yet verified
- Parking and access
- VA 56 Tye River trailhead, Reeds Gap, Rockfish Gap park-and-ride.
- Shuttles
- Waynesboro has an established hiker shuttle culture; check current listings.
- Terrain
- Sustained 3,000-foot climbs and descents; excellent tread but physically demanding.
- Wildlife
- Bears throughout; bear canisters recommended in the wilderness area.
- Seasons
- High water at the Tye River crossing after heavy rain.
- Regulations
- Wilderness area regulations apply in Three Ridges.
- Emergency
- Waynesboro and Charlottesville have hospitals.