Short miles. A wide open view.
Stony Man takes you through the forest to a rocky viewpoint overlooking the Shenandoah Valley and Massanutten Mountain. Give yourself time to pause, look out across the landscape, and enjoy the adventure beyond the mileage.
Difficulty · NPS Easiest
The standard hike gains approximately 340 feet over 1.6 miles. Short mileage still deserves preparation. Take your time on uneven footing, especially when wet, and keep children close around exposed rocks.
From the parking area to the viewpoint
01 / Start at mile 41.7
Begin at the Stony Man parking area off Skyline Drive, near Skyland.
02 / Follow the Appalachian Trail
Take the Appalachian Trail from the parking area to the trail post.
03 / Take the summit trail
Follow the blue blazed Stony Man Trail to the viewpoint.
04 / Complete the loop and return
Continue on the Stony Man Trail until it rejoins the Appalachian Trail. Retrace your steps on the Appalachian Trail to the parking area.
NPS · Stony Man trail details ↗
These directions describe the standard park route, rather than a recorded track of Jean’s hike.
The face in the mountain
Stony Man is Shenandoah’s second highest peak. Seen from the north, the mountain resembles the bearded face of a man reclining along the Blue Ridge. Its viewpoint looks west across the Shenandoah Valley toward Massanutten Mountain.
A map to take with you
Download the official Skyland area map before arriving. It includes Stony Man along with other trails, so follow the route for this 1.6 mile hike.
Open the official NPS map ↗Before heading out
Bring water, a snack, a light layer, a light, and shoes with reliable traction. Save your map before arriving because cell service can be unreliable. Let someone know your route and expected return time.
Pets are not permitted on the blue blazed Stony Man summit trail. Dogs being allowed on the Appalachian Trail approach does not allow them to continue to the summit.
Check park alerts, Skyline Drive access, weather, and current entrance fees before leaving home. Stay on designated trails, protect vegetation, and pack out everything you bring.
NPS · Pet rules ↗ · Park conditions ↗ · Entrance fees ↗
Route details checked October 23, 2026. This guide is a planning resource, not a live trail conditions report.
Capture the adventure
Try a forest walking clip, a close shot of your boots on the trail, and a wide summit reveal. Film from a secure position away from the edge, and leave room for other hikers to enjoy the view.