Southern Gateways Guides

Covering 40 of the best trips the state of Virginia has to offer, Backpacking Virginia provides all the information necessary for beginner and experienced backpackers alike to enjoy hiking destinations from Cumberland Gap in southwest Virginia to the New River Valley, the heart of the Blue Ridge, and Shenandoah National Park, and all the way out to the Atlantic coast. With expert guidance anyone can use, Johnny Molloy encourages a wide range of nature lovers to give backpacking a try, perhaps for the first time, in scenic natural settings. Molloy provides helpful tips for gear and enjoying life on the trail, “best-of” lists to help you choose an excursion, and detailed route information to guide you along the way.

Backpacking Virginia has all the essentials for planning your trip, whether a quick overnight getaway or a multiday adventure:

- More than 650 miles of trails for beginners and expert backpackers alike
- Helpful overviews to introduce each route and its features
- Gear and safety advice for year-round backpacking
- Major points of interest highlighted on each trip
- Family-friendly trails and easy bailouts for when backpacking with children
- Canine-friendly trails for your furry companions
- Detailed trail maps and GPS guidance for each trip
- Estimated hike times, elevation change, and level of difficulty
- Camping permit requirements