Rhododendron Trail

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Features Birding · Fall Colors · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

The red-blazed dirt singletrack Rhododendron Trail is a beautiful loop trail when combined with the Summit Trail and/or Lost Province Trail atop Mt. Jefferson. Hike in a clockwise direction, it is slightly more downhill than in the opposite direction.

From the parking lot at the top of the road, take the Summit Trail and take the trail to the right when the Summit Trail takes a sharp left up to the cell tower and proper summit of Mt. Jefferson. The trail becomes singletrack with roots and rocks to keep you paying attention, although there are several interpretive signs as well as impressive overlooks of the surrounding mountains, valleys, and the New River.

After a downhill, there is an information sign and a trail sign pointing to the short spur trail to Luther Rock and more impressive views. Taking a right at the Luther Rock junction keeps you on the Rhododendron Trail.

Soon you'll come to a junction with the green-blazed Lost Province Trail on the left. Lost Province takes a short loop and meets back up with the Rhododendron Trail 1/4 mile down. The 1/4 mile of Rhododendron Trail between Lost Province trailheads is steep and rocky. After the second Lost Province Trail junction, the trail stays relatively level and smooth heading back to the Summit Trail and parking lot.

Blooming rhododendron and mountain laurel in the springtime.