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The classic sister hike to the more popular Sharp Top.


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Map Key

5.2

Miles

8.4

KM

Out and Back

3,953' 1,205 m

High

2,542' 775 m

Low

1,410' 430 m

Up

1,411' 430 m

Down

10%

Avg Grade (6°)

19%

Max Grade (11°)

Dogs Leashed

Features Views · Wildflowers

Overview

The hike to Flat Top Mountain that is a classic Virginia hike. At 5.2-miles roundtrip (out-and-back), this hike makes for a nice morning or afternoon outing at the Peaks of Otter.

Description

A lovely trail full of wonderful views, large rock formations, and flora that changes with each turn of the trail, including huge oak, poplar, hickory and beech trees, mountain laurel, rhododendron, and an assortment of wildflowers. From the start, the Flat Top Trail climbs steadily with a couple steeper sections and many winding swtichbacks to help east the climb. Once you reach the summit of Flat Top Mountain, the Flat Top Trail does continue on, but if you have had your fill of hiking for the day, simply retrace your steps back downhill to the start.

Contacts

Land Manager: NPS - Blue Ridge

Shared By:

Roanoke Outside

Trail Ratings

  4.4 from 7 votes

#1

in Montvale

#2889

Overall
  4.4 from 7 votes
5 Star
57%
4 Star
29%
3 Star
14%
2 Star
0%
1 Star
0%
Recommended Route Rankings

#1

in Montvale

#80

in Virginia

#2,889

Overall
18 Views Last Month
2,630 Since Apr 21, 2017
Intermediate/Difficult Intermediate/Difficult

0%
14%
43%
14%
29%
0%

Photos

The Flat Top Trail is nice and wide as it ascends the mountain.
May 31, 2017 near Buchanan, VA

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Weather


Current Trail Conditions

Unknown
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Check-Ins

Jun 12, 2020
Ileana Gonzalez
Gradual ascent; well-maintained trail; nice views up top. Side trail to cross rock is worth the steep descent. 5.2mi — 3h 00m
Jul 19, 2018
Josh Barbir
Fun trail, nice views from several areas up top. Moderately difficult, beautiful forestry
Jul 8, 2018
Justin Bryan
Ran the first half up before it became too rocky to run! Nice hike with a great view.
Jun 6, 2018
Don Pritchett
Apr 29, 2018
kadams
50 degrees, windy, blue skies only about 5 hikers on the trail 5.2mi
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