Facility Overview
The Keys Gap Parking lot is an essential open-air surface parking facility located at the Appalachian National Scenic Trail crossing at Keys Gap, near Purcellville, WV. This is a gravel-surfaced trailhead parking area designed specifically to accommodate hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. As an open-air surface lot with no vertical structures, it has no height clearance limitations, making it perfectly suitable for standard passenger cars, large pickup trucks, SUVs, and even vehicles with roof racks for gear. Please note that the surface can be uneven, and space is limited during peak hiking seasons.
Prime Location & Nearby Attractions
This parking area serves as a primary access point for the Appalachian National Scenic Trail (AT). It is ideally situated for day hikers and backpackers looking to explore the Maryland/Virginia border region. Nearby attractions include:
- Appalachian Trail North and Southbound trailheads: Direct access.
- Raven Rocks: A popular scenic overlook reachable via a moderate hike.
- Historic Harpers Ferry, WV: Located just a short drive to the north, offering rich Civil War history and unique dining.
- Purcellville, VA: A short drive southeast, featuring local breweries, cafes, and small-town charm.
Access, Navigation & Transit Connectivity
Access to the lot is via route WV-671/VA-671 (Keys Gap Road). The ingress and egress are straightforward but drivers should exercise caution due to the rural nature of the road and limited sightlines. The facility is not served by public transit, and visitors are advised to reach the trailhead via personal vehicle. It is most easily accessed by those traveling from the Washington D.C. metropolitan area or the Shenandoah Valley via Route 9.
Facility Amenities & Key Features
- Surface gravel parking
- Free access (National Park Service managed)
- No specific height restrictions
- No public restrooms on-site
- Limited ADA accessible marking; please park responsibly to maximize space for others
Ideal For
- Day hikers exploring the Appalachian Trail
- Backpackers starting or ending multi-day sections
- Nature photographers and bird watchers
- Visitors seeking quiet access to regional mountain vistas
Visitor & Driver Tips
- Arrive early: During peak weekends and pleasant weather, the lot fills up quickly; arriving before 9:00 AM is highly recommended.
- Leave no trace: This is a wilderness parking area; please carry out all trash.
- Vehicle security: As with all remote trailheads, do not leave valuables in plain sight inside your vehicle.
- GPS Guidance: Use the coordinates (39.261558, -77.762357) to ensure you are arriving at the correct mountain pass gap, as cell service can be intermittent in the immediate area.
