You'll need to make a reservation to hike Old Rag in Shenandoah between March 1 and November 30/NPS graphic

If you want to see the view from the top of Old Rag in Shenandoah National Park anytime between March and the end of November, you'll need a permit.

During the past two years park staff tested a pilot ticketing program in a bid to better manage congestion at the trailhead and on the trail to the top of Old Rag Mountain. On Thursday staff announced the ticketing would be permanent going forward.

The permanent system will closely follow the pilot program. Beginning March 1, all visitors are required to have a day-use ticket, in addition to a park entrance pass, to access the Old Rag area.  

“We appreciate the public input received as we tested management options,” said Shenandoah Superintendent Pat Kenney. “We feel confident that this system has improved the visitor experience on Old Rag, reduced impacts on the area’s ecosystem, and is a good long-term solution.”  

Day-use tickets for Old Rag Mountain for the 2024 season will be available starting February 17 at 10 a.m. Tickets cost $2. Half of the revenue created will pay for the administrative costs of the program, and half will be used toward visitor and resource protection.

A total of 800 tickets will be available each day from March 1 to November 30; 400 will be released 30 days in advance and the remaining 400 will be released five days in advance. Hikers are encouraged to reserve their tickets before arriving via this webpage. Tickets are valid for the day of arrival only and are not transferable. A day-use ticket does not guarantee a parking spot, and entrance fees still apply in addition to the day-use ticket.  

Hiking to the summit of Old Rag is physically demanding. Be sure to check out the park's Old Rag planning guide before you lace up your boots!