Ivy Creek hike has a number of beautiful views as you traverse the path.
MM: 77.5 on Skyline Drive. Closest Entrance: Swift Run Gap
3.2 Miles Roundtrip. (By our GPS, the guidebook said 2.8)
As is typical for us, we were looking for a hike we could do on a Sunday after church. One fairly close, and not too long. Yet one that was worthwhile. We settled in on Ivy Creek, knowing it would meet the first two criteria, and being pleasantly rewarded with the third.
Ivy Creek hike follows the AT the entire time.
Ivy Creek is a most interesting and dynamic hike. It is an out and back on the Appalachian Trail, starting from the Ivy Creek Overlook. It runs parallel to Skyline Drive on one side, and vistas of the Blue Ridge on the other. The vegetation is constantly changing, and the scenery is never dull. This is a lesser known hike, and thus it was the perfect level of ‘crowdedness’ for us. We passed a total of 4 groups the entire time, and then meeting a 5th at the ‘pool’ where we had our lunch. We also encountered a AT thru hiker about halfway down….at least we think we did, judging by his ‘pack’ and bearded face. It is always fun to happen upon a thru hiker. We were not able to engage this one in conversation, he seemed intent on getting his miles in on such a beautiful day. And getting that much closer to Maine by nightfall.
Ivy Creek hike is one of the more narrow paths that I can remember experiencing. We never could be two across while hiking, and J-Wow lead us most of the way. In some places, the path was barely viseable under the growth, and in other, tall grass had grown over the path. We made sure to check for ticks when we were done hiking! And the narrow path made it a little dicey when we encountered other hikers (especially those with dogs!)
The trail remains narrow throughout the Ivy Creek hike, sometimes even getting lost in the brush.
A wonderful outcropping of rocks pops up at almost exactly halfway on this hike. A beautiful view, with a sneak peak at Skyline Drive below.
Besides the varied terrain; two wonderful rewards await the Ivy Creek hiker….the first is a wonderful outcropping of rocks at almost halfway along the hike that has a relaxing view of the Blue Ridge beyond and also Skyline Drive. It was a welcome surprise for us, and a wonderful break for twizzlers and water!
The ultimate reward on this hike lays down the mountain a bit, and that is a tiny waterfall that results in a creek crossing and small mountain pool which was a perfect setting for lunch. The AT continues to the South and likely provides more wonderful adventures. But, we stopped and enjoyed the setting, then headed back the way we came.
A small waterfall and wading pool as you encounter Ivy Creek is a perfect place to cool off and enjoy lunch!
We had periods of descent and ascent all throughout this hike. Most hikes we have done are primarily one each way (typically waterfalls are down the up….and opposite for summit hikes). We all were appreciative of this variation. Ascents are of course heart pumpers….but descents are tough on the knees, so it was nice to not be overloaded with either on Ivy Creek.
We all really liked this hike a lot, and think it is a hidden gem of Shenandoah National Park. It is highly recommend it to all. With one small caution: we are used to being under tree cover most of the hikes we do…..it seemed as we followed the vistas, we were exposed to the sun much more than is typical on our hikes….and we did not apply sunscreen. So, if you tackle Ivy Creek, dont forget your SPF!
The entire family gave Ivy Creek High Ratings!
Rantings 4.6 (out of 5) for Ivy Creek:
JJ – 5. “It was not too hilly. And I liked the little pool at the bottom.”
Billy – 4. “It was just challenging enough and really beautiful. But, it was not the best hike I have ever been on!”
Minnie -5 “A hidden gem”
Mickey – 4 “Mountain Views, stream views and a wide variety of plants along the route. Ivy Creek has it all!”
J-Wow – 5 “Lots of great smells from all the changes in plants. Plus the pool at the end was a great place to cool off!”
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