Beautiful Outlook – Turk Mountain Summit loop from Jarman Gap
Beautiful Outlook – Turk Mountain Summit loop from Jarman Gap
3.3
(24)
82
hikers
Beautiful Outlook – Turk Mountain Summit loop from Jarman Gap
05:00
15.9km
650m
Hiking
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.
Last updated: April 20, 2026
Tips
Your route passes through protected areas
Please check local regulations for:
Shenandoah Wilderness
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
8.69 km
Beautiful Outlook
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
8.85 km
Rocky Outcrop Overlook in the Shenandoah Wilderness
Highlight • Viewpoint
9.05 km
Turk Mountain Summit
Highlight • Summit
Tip by
9.33 km
Turk Mountain Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
12.9 km
Sawmill Run Overlook
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
15.9 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
12.3 km
3.51 km
110 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
12.2 km
3.44 km
191 m
< 100 m
< 100 m
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Elevation
Highest point (880 m)
Lowest point (450 m)
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Weather
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Sunday 5 July
33°C
20°C
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for a challenging yet incredibly rewarding day out in Shenandoah National Park, the Beautiful Outlook – Turk Mountain Summit loop from Jarman Gap is a difficult hiking route that delivers. This 9.9-mile (15.9 km) loop packs in 2130 feet (649 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 5 hours to complete. It's a fantastic option for experienced hikers seeking solitude and expansive views away from the park's more crowded trails, offering a true test of endurance and a high payoff in scenery.
What to expect on Beautiful Outlook – Turk Mountain Summit loop from Jarman Gap
The route offers a diverse journey through forested landscapes, starting on dirt paths that gradually become rockier as you ascend. You'll traverse sections of the yellow-blazed South Fork Moorman's Fire Road, which involves numerous stream crossings, and then tackle the steep Turk Branch Trail with its switchbacks. The final push to the Turk Mountain summit is particularly rocky and steep, sometimes requiring a short scramble, but the reward is sweeping valley views and the impressive talus slope. This trail is best for those with good fitness and who are comfortable with sustained climbs and varied terrain; hiking poles are definitely advisable for the rocky sections and stream crossings.
Planning your visit
The trailhead for this loop is accessible from Jarman Gap, which is a convenient starting point within Shenandoah National Park. While specific parking details aren't always highlighted, it's generally wise to arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure a spot. The trail is less crowded than some other popular routes in the park, offering a sense of solitude. Consider hiking in spring or fall for the best weather and views, as wildflowers add beauty in spring and fall foliage is spectacular. Always carry plenty of water, especially during warmer months, as this is a demanding hike.
Trail details
- Distance: 9.9 miles (15.9 km)
- Elevation gain: 2130 feet (649 metres)
- Difficulty: difficult
- Estimated time: 5 hours
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