The Sharp Top hike is a classic 3-mile round trip (out and back) at the Peaks of Otter. It was long thought to be Virginia’s tallest mountain, when in fact, it is not even the tallest of the Peaks of Otter. Nearby Flat Top rises to 4,001 feet. Mount Rogers near the North Carolina border is the state’s tallest mountain at 5,729 feet.
Sharp Top has a rather steep ascent, but not that long. Many folks of all ages and fitness levels hike this trail almost every day in the warm seasons. Hikers in shape should have little trouble, and those in not such good shape will get a needed workout. There’s also a shuttle bus for those who would prefer to ride up and hike only downhill.
From Roanoke – Turn right onto Orange Ave SE from Williamson Rd SE. Continue for about 15 miles as this becomes US-460 E. Turn left onto SR-617. In 0.6 miles, turn right onto SR-695. Continue for 9.5 miles and turn right onto the Parkway ramp. The destination will be at milepost 86 on the Blue Ridge Parkway (near the Peaks of Otter Recreational Area).
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