The first permanent settlement West of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Elkton, Va.
The first permanent settlement West of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Nestled between the Blue Ridge Mountains and Massanutten Peak, the Town of Elkton is only minutes from The Swift Run Gap entrance to Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park and the world-famous Appalachian Trail. Rich in history, the Town of Elkton is known as the first permanent settlement West of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The area was settled around the 1720’s and families were quick to put down their roots in the fertile soil along the banks of the South Fork of the Shenandoah River which flows through the town. Just under 3,000 residents call the quaint Shenandoah Valley town home.
The small, walkable community has been serving hikers for decades but was officially dedicated as the 50th Appalachian Trail Community on August 14, 2021. The Town is home to many locally owned businesses including the “Valley’s Best” award winning Elkton Brewing Company, Appalachian Trail Outfitters and the very popular Small Axe Farms Hostel. Our downtown businesses are within a short walking distance from each other. The town also hosts many festivals including the EPIC Fest Beer and Wine Festival in May, Spring Festival in May, Annual Field Day in July, and Elkton Autumn Days in October! We are also conveniently located 8 miles from the four season Massanutten Resort.
• Blue Elk Coffee Co
• Elkton Family Pharmacy
• Elkton Brewing Company
• Small Axe Farms Hostel
• Country View Lodging
• Pure Shenandoah
• First Bank N.A.
These businesses support the Trail by taking part in the A.T. Community Supporter program.
1/12
Appalachian Trail Outfitters by Daily News-Record.
Country View Lodging by Daily News-Record.
Downtown Elkton by Mark Rathke.
Elkton Autumn Days by Joshua Gooden.
Elkton Town Hall by Joshua Gooden.
EPIC Fest Beer _ Wine Festival by Joshua Gooden.
Fall in Elkton by Joshua Gooden.
Massanutten Resort by Virginia Tourism Corporation.
South Fork of the Shenandoah River Kayaking by Joshua Gooden.
Get Involved
Potomac Appalachian Trail Club
The Potomac Appalachian Trail Club (PATC) has enhanced the mid-Atlantic outdoor experience since 1927, including 240 miles of the Appalachian Trail in Virginia, West Virginia, Maryland and Pennsylvania. We maintain trails, shelters, and cabins, and make maps and guidebooks for outdoor adventurers. Learn more and become a member today at patc.net.
ATC Volunteer Program
The Appalachian Trail Conservancy is always looking for dedicated volunteers to help maintain the A.T. and assist in our visitor center and headquarters. Opportunities range from greeting visitors and providing information about local hikes to joining a Trail crew for week-long maintenance trips, gaining first-hand experience in what it takes to keep the A.T. open and enjoyable for millions each year. Learn more at appalachiantrail.org/volunteer.
Discover More
Learn More
About the ATC
We are the stewards of the world’s longest hiking-only footpath, the Appalachian Trail.
JOIN OUR EFFORTS
Ways to Volunteer
Volunteers are the heart and soul of the Appalachian Trail, and there are many opportunities for you to give back to the Trail you love so much.
BACK TO THE BASICS
Leave No Trace
Wondering how you can take care of outdoor places like the Appalachian Trail (A.T.)?