Sharp Top Mountain in Virginia 2025
An impressive peak in a beautiful lake area
Best time: March–November
Sharp Top Mountain belongs to the Peaks of Otter Area in the Southern Appalachian Range, near Bedford, Virginia. The mountain can be reached by a 4-km (2.6 mi) out and back trail featuring wildflowers and wildlife during the warm season from March until November. The hike offers amazing panoramic views of Virginia and is definitely worth a short but steep climb.
It takes about 1.5 hours to reach Sharp Top peak with an elevation gain of 373 m (1,227 ft). The trailhead is located near the Peaks of Otter Nature Center. The trail includes a series of rocky steps that can be rather steep and strenuous. When on top, visitors can enjoy a picnic on a large boulder complemented by a panorama view of Piedmont, the Allegheny Valley Mountains, and the Shenandoah Valley.
A sunrise or sunset time is a perfect time to take stunning pictures.
The Peaks of Otter area also features Flat Top Mountain and Harkening Hill that are well suitable for a hike. Manmade Abbott Lake is located in the valley between the three peaks, adding visual diversity to the scenery. The area has been popular among hikers since the 1800s. Visit the historical Peaks of Otter Lodge or Johnson Farm to learn more about this part of Virginia and enjoy its beautiful vistas.
