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Moderately difficult hike. Well marked. Beautiful views and plenty of parking.
The purpose of my visit was to hike up to Big Schloss. On a chilly day at the end of November, there was plenty of parking. The pit toilets are much appreciated. The hike was good. Rocky, but less rocky than the one to Signal Knob and other places I have hiked. I had the overlook to myself while I was there. 10/10 recommend that hike.
Amazing views that are more than worth the cost of admission. The climbing isn't that bad unless you're carrying photo equipment like me. I highly recommend especially for astrophotography, sunrise and sunsets, storms (dangerous), cloud timelapse, etc.
Wolf Gap Recreation Area is situated on the Virginia and West Virginia line and has access to excellent trails and camp grounds. The location has adequate parking (though extra spillover can park along the driveway not the main road turning into the red area), well marked and maintained trails, and a coveted place to use the bathroom (it is not a wash area).
There are a small number of first come, first serve tent pads w parking space and fire pit. There is an index card and post system to claim a spot.
Dogs are allowed on the trails. The trails are rated moderate. Some parks are definitely harder than others but we managed without hiking boots. Kids do well on these hiking trails. You cannot get cell reception up there so download your maps offline if needed.
All in all, a great hiking location for the family! We intend to come back and camp next time.
We used the Wolf Gap Recreation Area to park and hike out to Big Schloss. There wasn't an entrance fee to this area and parking seemed a bit limited where we were located (we arrived around 10:30 am).
The trail out to Big Schloss is definitely considered 'moderate.' The first mile is the harshest; the rest is still an incline but not as severe. It's a good workout! The views at the top will take your breath away and make it all worth it. The trail is well-traveled and you'll more than likely run into other hikers.
