Shenandoah National Park
Who Needs a StairMaster?
Little Devils Stairs
Distance: 5.5-mile loop
Forget the gym; this hike will work those quads. It begins near Sperryville, Virginia, with a gradual incline for the first mile; then it’s a mile up a steep, rocky path in the narrow, dark ravine of the Keyser Run. The trail crosses this creek several times (a few spots require rock scrambling) before topping out after an elevation gain of 1,480 feet. To return, follow the yellow-blazed Keyser Run Fire Road. In summer, it’s best to do the hike in early morning. For details, see the Mathews Arm and Elkwallow Area map at nps.gov/shen/planyourvisit/mapshiking.htm.
