Turk Mountain Trail

Dogs Unknown

Features Fall Colors · Views

Be ready for a steady climb up to the summit.

This is a fairly easy, enjoyable trail heading to the summit of Turk Mountain. To access the trailhead follow the white-blazed AT south (across the Skyline Drive from the parking area). Go 0.1 mile to the marker post and turn right.

The Turk Mountain Trail initially descends into the saddle between Turk Mountain and the main ridge, then climbs gradually to the summit, from which there's a stunning view to west on top of rock talus slope.

Thanks to Larry W. Brown, for sharing this trail description. If you’re interested in learning more details about great runs, weather, camping / lodging, wildlife, and scenic drives, check out the comprehensive Guide to Shenandoah National Park.

Turk Mountain is capped by Erwin quartzite; you can see cliffs and talus slopes that slice across it near the top. Be on the lookout for intermittent exposures of phyllite of the lower Hampton formation. In a fresh break, its color varies from silvery gray to very pale tan – some of it banded, some with veins of pebbly quartzite. The weathered surfaces are mostly stained with iron.