Short Mountain, Mountain summit in Shenandoah County, Virginia, United States.
Short Mountain is a ridge-like summit reaching 2,811 feet in Shenandoah County that stretches several miles along Massanutten Mountain's northwestern flank. The peak consists of an elongated ridgeline with multiple vantage points and forms a distinctive profile when viewed from various directions in the surrounding valley.
The peak was originally called Seven-Mile Mountain before being incorporated into the George Washington National Forest. This transition reflected broader conservation efforts in the region during the early 20th century.
The name reflects the ridge's distinctive length and shape compared to neighboring peaks in the region. Visitors walking along the crest notice how this formation naturally frames views across the Shenandoah Valley below.
The summit is reachable via a marked hiking trail with orange blazes, with the round-trip hike taking roughly three hours of walking time. The path ascends at a moderate grade without extreme elevation changes, making it accessible for hikers with basic fitness levels.
From vantage points along the northern end of the ridge, clear sightlines reveal multiple neighboring peaks and occasional views stretching to Great North Mountain in the distance. This perspective from an easily accessible location offers a comprehensive overview of the Appalachian landscape rarely experienced by casual visitors.
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