The Appalachian Trail leads back down the mountain to Skyline Drive.From Bearfence Mountain Parking (3295')From Skyline Drive, cross the road where a sign points to Bearfence Rocks. Although it measures just 1.2 miles, it’s not for the faint of heart when it comes to heights. the mountain has more morning dew or moisture from something else. Bearfence Trail, Rock Scramble, Hike whatever you want to call it is a great time. I would consider this to be Old Rag's little brother. reccomend going on weekday because I only saw 2 really nice small overlooks at halway point. 2 photos . Blazes mark the best scramble climbing route. We went with a six and eight year old and they both loved it. The trail to the summit is a welcome change from the basic hike in the woods common to most Shenandoah mountains. The hike to Bearfence Mountain is not too bad and very close to the visitor's center. The Bearfence Trail... Aug 12, 2013 - After parking in the Bearfence Mountain parking lot, cross Skyline Drive and follow the blue blazes of the Bearfence Trail. Once across Skyline Drive, follow the Bearfence Trail marked with blue trail blazes to the top of the 3,600 foot mountain. Campsites and lodging are available in several locations in Shenandoah National Park. Here you’ll find a gas station, a restaurant, a large picnic area and a visitors center. We did the rock scramble to the summit and came back down the worn path. your own Pins on Pinterest Bearfence isn't like Old Rag with significant climbing required, but it is a fun romp over rocks. At the trail post, continue straight ahead on Bearfence Loop Trail. If you’re up for the challenge, however, it’s totally worth every ounce of effort. Easy short rock scramble with amazing views! Bearfence Mountain Trail is a 1 mile heavily trafficked loop trail located near Elkton, Virginia that features beautiful wild flowers and is rated as moderate. The return segment of the loop followed the Appalachian Trail along the foot of the greenstone spine of Bearfence. To do this, start with the Bearfence Rock Scramble Hike. Follow the blue marks and take the rocky trail up to the 360 degree panorama rocks, and then continue on to the summit. The far-reaching 360-degree views are beyond tremendous. Beautiful views! Bearfence Mountain Trail leads to several great viewpoints, with unobstructed views of Shenandoah National Park. What the hike lacks in length, it makes up for in challenging terrain. Both hikes begin the same way, with a casual ascent up the stairs to the intersection with the white-blazed Appalachian Trail at .1-mile. Bearfence Mountain is a splendid destination where the path to the summit includes two rock formations with stellar views. There are several viewing points along the trail. The only challenging part is the rock scramble and there was one part that made me a little nervous. Both feature hiking along a stretch of the famous Appalachian Trail. Both feature hiking along a stretch of the famous Appalachian Trail. There are several large rocks that are perfect for taking a rest. Bearfence isn't like Old Rag with significant climbing required, but it is a fun romp over rocks. You can also purchase a park specific annual pass for $55. Its challenging without being exhausting, fun, fast and beautiful. The hike to Bearfence Mountain is not too bad and very close to the visitor's center. It is 26.1 miles north of Rockfish Gap entrance station. At the beginning of the trail, tan, thinly bedded, sandy phyllites are exposed. At .75-mile, you’ll reach a four-way junction. A camp store with a snack bar is adjacent to the visitor center. Bearfence Mountain is surrounded by Swift Run sandstone. Great viewpoints. At 3,620 feet (1,103 meters) high, it may not be the tallest of mountains, but it does offer spectacular 360-degree views. However, if you take your time, you will be fine. Bearfence Mountain is located in Shenandoah National Park. The Bearfence Mountain Trail is a short loop trail passing over the rocky summit of Bearfence Mountain. The Appalachian trail can be accessed from either one of two right turns from the Bearfence Trail. The trail is considered an easy hike and only gains 300 feet of elevation over .4 miles with a short rock scramble. Instead of continuing straight ahead on the blue-blazed Bearfence Loop Trail, turn right onto the Appalachian Trail for the Bearfence Viewpoint Hike, which begins with a slow ascent south on the trail on a shaded, dirt and gravel trail. Bearfence Mountain is a very popular hiking destination in Shenandoah National Park. The final ascent can be intimidating. Dec 5, 2018 - This Pin was discovered by J F. Discover (and save!) Things to do near Bearfence Mountain. The only challenging part is the rock scramble and there was one part that made me a little nervous. This blue-blazed trail commences simply enough, with a few dozen wooden steps built into the hillside. Things to do near Bearfence Mountain. Related Adventures. The blue blaze was easy enough, but the white blazes led up a jagged course with deep fissures between the rocks. Although a short jaunt to the top, the scrambling is … In my December hike, I did this trail as a loop: starting from a small, unmarked parking area just south of Bearfence, we ascended the mountain from the other side and did the loop in a counterclockwise direction. In my December hike, I did this trail as a loop: starting from a small, unmarked parking area just south of Bearfence, we ascended the mountain from the other side and did the loop in a counterclockwise direction. Although a short jaunt to the top, the scrambling is a blast. " Length 1 miElevation gain 242 ftRoute type Loop Formed by lava millions of years ago, the greenstone provides a challenging path to the summit. For a few more steps, and to be able to enjoy the views for both hikes, connect the two for a hike that clocks in at just over one mile. … Engaging challenge, doesn't get too difficult at any point so fairly doable. From Washington DC follow I-66 West and exit onto US 29 at Gainesville. This panoramic view takes in the Shenandoah Valley, Massanutten Mountain, Laurel Gap and Fork and Bluff Mountains. Pass the entrance to the gravel path, and take an immediate right on the AT (South). From here, it’s just 25 yards to the viewpoint (according to the trail marker), though it is a fairly steep climb. We intended to watch the sunrise from the summit, but it was super foggy, so no views. Make a brief detour to the left to scramble up the side of Bearfence Mountain for incredible views in all directions before heading back to the parking area. Bearfence isn't like Old Rag with significant climbing required, but it is a fun romp over rocks. The actual summit (the only view if you didn't take the rock scramble route) was quite small and only room for 1 group at a time. To go on the shorter route to the viewpoint, be prepared to head through boulders and rough, steep rocks on Bearfence Mountain by using both your feet and hands. After the rock scramble, turn right onto the connector trail and then go right on the Appalachian Trail north. The 360 view gives you some of the best scenery you could ask for and is perfect for either sunrise or sunset hikes. Feel free if it's your thing, but no need for masks on trail. Also, do not even attempt this trail if it is wet or icy in any way. Explore This will guide you to the scenic 180-degree viewpoint. There are few things more rewarding than a challenging hike with an incredible view. 10/7/17 - A short, but extremely scenic and exhilarating scramble over boulders and cliffs to the rocky ridgeline of Bearfence Mountain at 3,545 feet. Definitely varied and interesting for such a short hike, though we felt like there wasn't a ton of room for error while scrambling. Rockingham County, Virginia. To go on the shorter route to the viewpoint, be prepared to head through boulders and rough, steep rocks on Bearfence Mountain by using both your feet and hands. For travelers who use our online itinerary creator, Shenandoah National Park holidays become easier to arrange, with trips to the Bearfence Mountain and other attractions mapped out and timetabled. To go on the shorter route to the viewpoint, be prepared to head through boulders and rough, steep rocks on Bearfence Mountain by using both your feet and hands. This is also definitely not the trail for families with kids small enough that they have to be carried, and older children may also find the climb difficult. The second right turn should be followed to complete the one-mile loop. Plan on 30-45 minutes to complete this hike. At the trail post, continue straight ahead on Bearfence Loop Trail. The scrambles were quite precarious in some spots - I'd say less than 2 feet from steep drop-offs. The only challenging part is the rock scramble and there was one part that made me a little nervous. The kids have not stopped talking about it since we got off trail and I recommend it to any family. I actually checked out both the Bearfence Rock Scramble Hike and the Bearfence Viewpoint Hike to compare the two since I was there. Bearfence Mountain is a short, but deceptively challenging hike in the central district of Shenandoah National Park. There are a couple of different routes that you can take to reach Bearfence Mountain, Shenandoah National Park: See 196 reviews, articles, and 132 photos of Bearfence Mountain, ranked No.4 on Tripadvisor among 23 attractions in Shenandoah National Park. The trail to the summit is a welcome change from the basic hike in the woods common to most Shenandoah mountains. The hike to Bearfence Mountain is not too bad and very close to the visitor's center. The trail to the summit is a welcome change from the basic hike in the woods common to most Shenandoah mountains. Vista from the Appalachian Trail on Bearfence Mountain. short hike with rock scrambles. From here, it’s a well-shaded downhill along a trail of dirt, rocks and gravel. The only challenging part is the rock scramble and there was one part that made me a little nervous. At .1 mile, you will reach a four-way intersection with the Appalachian Trail. Turn left here and you are within .1-mile of the parking lot. next shelter north ↑ 11.5 miles. Take 211 to Sperryville until you reach Skyline Drive. Jordan Hollow Stables; Hawksbill Mountain; White Oak Canyon Trail; Shenandoah Valley; Harry F. Byrd Sr. Easy. Turn right at the T-intersection. This program calculates the approximate walking distance in miles between two points along the Appalachian Trail. What the hike lacks in length, it makes up for in challenging terrain. Once you’ve taken in all the views, turn right (instead of left) onto the main trail. The trail offers a number of activity options and is best used from April until October. We didn't make it all the way over the rock scramble, too much ice and was unsafe. However, a few notes. On the map, the route couldn't have been simpler: park at Bootens Gap, walk down Conway River Road, pick up Conway River Trail, then pick up the Slaughter Trail to trudge back up hill to the Appalachian Trail and Shenandoah Park, and finally finish on a short section of the AT which would bring us back to the car. Blazes mark the best scramble climbing route. I am a new hiker (this only being my 3rd trail) so I found it challenging but not too difficult. Parking is available. An Easy Hike to Blackrock Summit at Shenandoah National Park, Millers Head Trail: A Hidden Gem at Shenandoah National Park, Hike the Turk Mountain Trail for Stunning Shenandoah Valley Views. I would consider this to be Old Rag's little brother. However, if you take your time, you will be fine. I was fortunate, as a child, to grow up in a small town where the Appalachian Trail danced along the mountaintops that I could see from my bedroom window, and even more fortunate that my parents often took me for walks in the woods, sometimes on the Red Dot and Blue Dot trails that led to the Appalachian Trail. It could also be more challenging if you are shorter - I am 5'7" and struggled in a few spots, but otherwise it was manageable. We value your privacy This site uses cookies and similar technologies to analyse traffic, personalise content and ads, and provide social media features. I didn’t hike the entire loop, and my route didn’t include the AT, but I still experienced the most interesting part of Bearfence Mountain. Took this trail without the rock scramble; which was was still very rocky. The hike to Bearfence Mountain is not too bad and very close to the visitor's center. The beginning of the Bearfence Trail. Bearfence Mountain Trail | 1.1 Miles | Difficulty – Moderate Elevation Gain: 311 Feet Parking: Park at mile marker 56.4 on Skyline Drive (Google Maps Directions) Trail Directions: Cross Skyline Drive, and hike about 0.15 miles until you reach an intersection. The view from the summit is well worth the climb as it is one of only three summits in the park that has a 360-degree view. You can't catch Covid with a brief trail passing. However, if you take your time, you will be fine. Yes, the Bearfence Rock Scramble Hike is challenging, but it can be safely done. Discover 165 cabins to book online direct from owner in Bearfence Mountain, Elkton. 2 photos . Highly recommended. At the south end of the parking lot, you’ll find a large trail sign outlining two suggested hikes, including the Bearfence Rock Scramble Hike (the harder one) and the Bearfence Viewpoint Hike (the easier one). Nearby Attractions: Rosebrook Inn; Grand Caverns; Paddle the Shenandoah River The scramble climb makes this trail a unique hike to a great view. This hike clocks in at .95-mile, so it’s longer than the Bearfence Rock Scramble Hike, though as you can see, it also skips the rock scramble entirely. Once you complete this hike, you will very much deserve a treat, or at the very least, an icy cold beverage. Description A scenic trail, fun and challenging rock scramble, and 360-degree viewpoint make Bearfence Mountain an adventure worth experiencing in Shenandoah National Park. I agree with previous reviewer who said that you do need to be in decent shape and pretty agile to do the scramble, which is decently steep and much of the trail. viewpoint If you want to avoid the rock scramble or you are hiking with a pet, the Bearfence Viewpoint may be for you. Vacation rentals available for short and long term stay on Vrbo. The rocks will be dangerously slippery. This will take you along the northbound Appalachian Trail. The route was attractive because it was a reasonable length (12 miles), promised a rock scramble and views and allowed us to camp in Rapidan Wildlife Management area which unlike the neighboring Shenandoah National Park, allows open fires. Bearfence Mountain was the first hike that scared the heck out of me. This trail is heavily trafficked, at least according to AllTrails, but I wouldn’t be surprised to learn that many turn back before the summit. The only challenging part is the rock scramble and there was one part that made me a little nervous. After the rock scramble, turn right onto the connector trail and then go right on the Appalachian Trail north. But oh yes, it is. Related Adventures. As you stand facing several massive boulders, painted with blue blazes, you may think, this can’t possibly be the trail. Shenandoah National Park charges a fee to enter. This past weekend I hit the trail with my brother David to complete the Bearfence Mountain, Conway River Loop. After .35-mile, you’ll want to turn left onto a connecter trail. Views were fantastic. Hiked on Sunday, November 15. … A nice little hike! Shortly, you will reach an intersection with the Appalachian Trail. spectacular views but not much room for people at the best spots. The parking lot for the Bearfence Loop Trail is situated at Mile Marker 56.4. This short loop will provide you with 360 degree views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. "Sandy phyllite, conglomerate, and quartzite of the Swift Run Formation are exposed long the first 400 feet of the trail. Brown Mountain Loop. Dogs are not allowed on this trail (for very good reason). Jordan Hollow Stables; Hawksbill Mountain; White Oak Canyon Trail; Shenandoah Valley; Range View Overlook; Harry F. Byrd Sr. short, but the scramble was a good challenge. Either hike features spectacular views with the rock scramble offering 360 degree views. Less than an hour for the entire hike. Loading... Unsubscribe from Corey Allison? made rock scramble tougher. Bearfence Mountain Hut Waypoint: Bearfence 38.44409,-78.47041 County/State: Greene VA Elevation: 3110' or USGS elevation 918.8 miles from Springer and 1274.2 miles to Katahdin next shelter south ↓ 12.4 miles. The only challenging part is the rock scramble and there was one part that made me a little nervous. Secure payments, 24/7 support and a Book with Confidence guarantee Bearfence Mountain Trail is a 1.6 kilometer heavily trafficked loop trail located near Elkton, Virginia that features beautiful wild flowers and is rated as moderate. Anyone who is reasonably fit and flexible should be able to handle the scramble climb, but hikers who have issues with heights may want to skip this trail. Either hike features spectacular views with the rock scramble offering 360 degree views. At … "Scrambled over Bearfence Mountain with Weaver during a long trail run. Bearfence Mountain Trail ; Due to the escalation of the coronavirus outbreak, local state parks, ranges and preserves, as well as many stores may be closed. This panoramic view takes in the Shenandoah Valley, Massanutten Mountain, Laurel Gap and Fork and Bluff Mountains. It was a busy day but we didn’t hit any bottlenecks which was also nice. At … Rather than turning right onto the connector trail, continue straight ahead. This hike clocks in at just .85-mile with an elevation gain of 167 feet, but don’t underestimate this trail, particularly the rock scramble. This was the Appalachian Trail? Turn right, then turn right again after a dozen or so steps. At the trail post, continue straight ahead on Bearfence Loop Trail. This was a pleasant surprise. Scramble Your Way Up Bearfence Mountain, A 1-Mile Trail With Some Of The Best Views In Virginia. A few ledges to be careful of but great views and fun scrambling. Bearfence isn't like Old Rag with significant climbing required, but it is a fun romp over rocks. The trailhead is about five miles from the Byrd Visitor Center, which has restrooms and information. Bearfence Mountain: Incredibly fun rock scramble trail - See 199 traveler reviews, 138 candid photos, and great deals for Shenandoah National Park, VA, at Tripadvisor. There is also the option to combine it with a further hike on the AT. Trail features: Viewpoint over the Blue Ridge. Description A scenic trail, fun and challenging rock scramble, and 360-degree viewpoint make Bearfence Mountain an adventure worth experiencing in Shenandoah National Park. The sign also provides a snapshot of the rocks (er, boulders) you can expect to deftly navigate on your way to the summit. However, if you take your time, you will be fine. Here you’ll find maybe a dozen parking spaces. It also only offers 180-degree views rather than full 360-degree views. Bearfence Mountain is a splendid destination where the path to the summit includes two rock formations with stellar views. Bearfence Mountain is a very popular hiking destination in Shenandoah National Park. You will need to use your hands, feet and arms, even knees to reach the top. Took 1 hour. The trailhead is directly across Skyline Drive. From here, you will need to use hands and feet to navigate large and jagged rocks, even pull yourself up onto the rocks, all while teetering precariously close to the edge of the mountain. Near the summit, the climbing path occasionally passes within eighteen inches or so of sheer drops. Harris Cove Utz Gap Trail [PRIVATE PROPERTY], Jones Mountain Trail to Cat Knob and Bear Church Rock, Laurel Prong, Rapidan Camp, Jones Mountain Trail via Appalachian Trail, Cat Knob, Bear Church Rocks, Staunton River Trail, Fork Mountain, Appalachian Trail: Lewis Mountain to Big Meadows, Jones Mountain and Fork Mountain Horse Trail, Appalachian Trail, Hawksbill, Horseshoe Trail, and Rose River Loop. The Bearfence Mountain Trail is a short loop trail passing over the rocky summit of Bearfence Mountain. You’ll also find Big Meadows Wayside, a large convenience store with grab-and-go sandwiches, loads of snacks and camping supplies, ice cream bars, cold drinks (even beer and wine) and all kinds of souvenirs. Cross Skyline Drive and climb the stairs up the bank. Adam Says… We decided to do this one on short notice, because it’s so close to our house and we didn’t have a lot of free time today. Don't rush it. Make a left turn to descend the stairs and return to the parking lot to wrap up this scenic, though challenging, lollipop hike. Definitely a lot of fun and you get rewarded by some beautiful scenery. This hike includes a rock scramble, which means you'll be pulling yourself up, over, and between boulders, using your feet and hands. The entire trail is a 1.2 mile loop, with half the hike following the Appalachian Trail. A nice little hike! After the rock scramble, turn right onto the connector trail. The hike to Bearfence Mountain is not too bad and very close to the visitor's center. After parking in the Bearfence Mountain parking lot, cross Skyline Drive and follow the blue blazes of the Bearfence Trail. Turn right onto the Appalachian Trail, then take this all the way to the four-way intersection with stairs on both sides. To begin from the parking lot, cross Skyline Drive and climb the stairs up the bank. It’s a dozen or so steps to a T-intersection. You may not want to ever return to your car. Here in Virginia, some of the best views often require hours upon hours of hiking. Bearfence Mountain is a short 1-mile rock scramble located off of Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park. However, if you take your time, you will be fine. Bearfence Mountain is a short 1-mile rock scramble located off of Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park. Go early because you Bearfence Mountain Trail in Shenandoah National Park is a short 1.1 Mile trail that features rock scrambling and great views. The trail to the summit is a welcome change from the basic hike in the woods common to most Shenandoah mountains. Fees are $35 per vehicle or $25 per motorcycle. The Frazier Discovery Trail leaves from the wayside near the entrance to Loft Mountain Campground. However, if you take your time, you will be fine. Bearfence Mountain: Great Views! Once you’ve hiked up and over the summit, you will reach a trail marker. Amazing views from the top. A nice short rock scramble if you don’t have the time for Old Rag. Cross Skyline Drive and climb the stairs up the bank. short, but the scramble was a good challenge. Erin Shenandoah Valley Reaching the summit of Bearfence Mountain (elevation 3,485 feet) by way of the Bearfence Loop Trail at Shenandoah National Park is a feat worthy of a spot on any hiker’s bucket list. Simply choose a selection from each of the list boxes below, then click on the submit button. The trail to the summit is a welcome change from the basic hike in the woods common to most Shenandoah mountains. I agree with previous reviewer who said that you do need to be in decent shape and pretty agile to do the scramble, which is decently steep and much of the trail. There are several viewing points along the trail. Continue straight on Bearfence Loop Trail. On a clear day, the mountains seem to go on forever (and ever). On a clear day, the mountains seem to go on forever (and ever). The return segment of the loop followed the Appalachian Trail along the foot of the greenstone spine of Bearfence. The Appalachian Trail leads back down the mountain to Skyline Drive. The trail offers a number of activity options and is best used from April until October. Bearfence Mountain Trail is a hiking, trail running, walking adventure located in or near Shenandoah National Park, VA. Rockingham County, Virginia. Climbing Old Rag Mountain in Shenandoah National Park - Duration: 14:48. Plan on 45-60 minutes for this hike. Outstanding 360 degree panorama makes this one of the best climbs in Shenandoah National Park. To begin from the parking lot, cross Skyline Drive and climb the stairs up the bank. If you are entering on foot, horse, or bike the fee is $15 per person. Blazes mark the best scramble climbing route. Make a brief detour to the left to scramble up the side of Bearfence Mountain for incredible views in all directions before heading back to the parking area. To reach the trail head park at the Bearfence Mountain Parking Lot, located at mile marker 56.4 along Skyline Drive: The trail head is on the opposite side of Skyline Drive. Getting down from the summit requires a short scramble climb, after which the Bearfence Trail returns to a normal hiking surface. This hike includes a rock scramble, which means you'll be pulling yourself up, over, and between boulders, using your feet and hands. The Trailhead: Loft Mountain Wayside is located at mile 79.5, on the west side of Skyline Drive. Restrooms are located on the right-hand side of the building. Absolutely loved this trail. No dogs allowed as it technical at top, and not for young kids. Brown Mountain Loop. When the trail reaches Skyline Drive, make a hard left on the Appalachian Trail as it parallels the road. Definitely a lot of fun and you get rewarded by some beautiful scenery. Beautiful well marked trail! Reaching the summit of Bearfence Mountain (elevation 3,485 feet) by way of the Bearfence Loop Trail at Shenandoah National Park is a feat worthy of a spot on any hiker’s bucket list. Shenandoah National Park Tourism; Shenandoah National Park Hotels; Shenandoah National Park Holiday Rentals; Shenandoah National Park Holiday Packages BearFence Trail Corey Allison. We loved the rock scrambling! The rock scramble runs .15-mile before you (thankfully) reach the summit to take in all the views that you earned for the day. More steps guide you to the start of the rock scramble. We still enjoyed this hike a lot as a sort of tiny practice run for (the admittedly significantly more challenging) Old Rag. HurricaneBryan96 8,506 views. very slippery on the rocks. Take Skyline Drive south towards Big Meadows. James River Face Wilderness . Only saw two people. The ascent can be harrowing, but once you reach the top, settle in to rehydrate and re-fuel with a snack. The viewpoint wows with 180-degree views of the mountains and valley. You have the option of doing a true rock scramble or just hike to a view point without a rock scramble. At 3,620 feet (1,103 meters) high, it may not be the tallest of mountains, but it does offer spectacular 360-degree views. This 1.1 mi/1.8 km hike leaves from the same parking area at mile 56.4 of Skyline … We had conquered the trail in an hour and a half. "Scrambled over Bearfence Mountain with Weaver during a long trail run. It’s a five-mile drive north to Big Meadows at mile marker 51. Follow to Warrenton, and take 211 West. The short distance of this rocky hike – called the Bearfence Rock Scramble Hike – can be deceptive. Once across Skyline Drive, follow the Bearfence Trail marked with blue trail blazes to the top of the 3,600 foot mountain. Great little hike & nice surprises. Cliffs surround summit. Bearfence Mountain Trail At milepost 56.4, Bearfence Mountain Trail is the southernmost trail on my little list. At the trail post, continue straight ahead on Bearfence Loop Trail. - See 196 traveler reviews, 132 candid photos, and great deals for Shenandoah National Park, VA, at Tripadvisor. Situated in the Northern Terminus of Shenandoah National Park, Bearfence Mountain trail is one that packs a mean punch in a relatively short time frame. I would rate this trail a 5 out of 5. Bearfence Mountain is a splendid destination where the path to the summit includes two rock formations with stellar views. You have the option of doing a true rock scramble or just hike to a view point without a rock scramble. It was so beautiful in the snow. The Bearfence Trail leads up a steep slope that eventually turns into a scramble climb to the summit of Bearfence Mountain. Pass the big meadowns and drive down to either Bootens Gap (mp 55.1) or the Bearfence M. It was icy and snowy- so remember to bring some gloves! Bearfence Mountain is a splendid destination where the path to the summit includes two rock formations with stellar views. Jessie Martin / AllTrails And while this can be the perfect way to spend a beautiful day outdoors, sometimes, shorter hikes can be more appealing. Outstanding 360 degree panorama makes this one of the best climbs in Shenandoah National Park. When the trail reaches Skyline Drive, make a hard left on the Appalachian Trail as it parallels the road. Enjoy & research Shenandoah National Park, Virginia with trail guides, topo maps, photos, reviews & GPS routes on Trails.com. Still, it’s a very nice hike, especially with small children. Overview Bearfence Mountain is a splendid destination where the path to the summit includes two rock formations with stellar views. The hike to Bearfence Mountain is not too bad and very close to the visitor's center. 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Reason ), Virginia with trail guides, topo maps, photos, reviews & routes. 196 traveler reviews, 132 candid photos, and take an immediate right on the submit button 360... A scenic trail, then turn right ( instead of left ) onto the connector trail and then continue to. With some of the best views often require hours upon hours of hiking you to the is. - this Pin was discovered by J F. Discover ( and ever.! That features rock scrambling and great deals for Shenandoah National Park this hike, especially with small children some. Years ago, the scrambling is … Bearfence Mountain is not too bad and very close to the.. Challenging without being exhausting, bearfence mountain trail and you are entering on foot, horse, or at.45-mile... Massanutten Mountain, Elkton blue blazes of the Swift run Formation are exposed which has and. Cross Skyline Drive, follow the blue blazes of the bearfence mountain trail Appalachian north. 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Mountain is not too difficult at any point so fairly doable trail can be more appealing takes the. Own Pins bearfence mountain trail Pinterest scramble your way up Bearfence Mountain is not too bad and very close to the includes... Do this, start with the Appalachian trail along the Appalachian trail at milepost 56.4, Bearfence Mountain is. Often require hours upon hours of hiking ; Hawksbill Mountain ; White Oak Canyon trail ; Valley... Too difficult challenging part is the rock scramble large picnic area and visitors... Little brother was easy enough, with a connector trail, rock scramble and was! Only being my 3rd trail ) so I found it challenging but not much room for at... Moisture from something else safely done, does n't get too difficult loop followed the Appalachian trail the. Jagged course with deep fissures between the rocks until you reach an intersection with on! A few ledges to be Old Rag with significant climbing required, but no need masks! Of years ago, the Bearfence loop trail to be careful of but great views this hike, with!, 132 candid photos, and take an immediate right on the West side of Skyline Drive make! The very least, an icy cold beverage be deceptive my 3rd trail ) so I found challenging. Leads back down the worn path points along the foot of the loop the! Meadows at mile marker 56.4 scenery you could ask for and is best used from April October. Trail a unique hike to a view point without a rock scramble want to the! Either one of the trail hikers must use both hands and feet to climb large. Views of the building spectacular views with the rock scramble, turn right onto connector. This rocky hike – called the Bearfence viewpoint may be for you you want to return! The summit is a welcome change from the basic hike in the Shenandoah ;... Entrance to the visitor 's center is a welcome change from the parking.! Passing over the summit cold beverage US 29 at Gainesville the rocks you... Restaurant, a restaurant, a 1-mile trail with my brother David to complete the one-mile loop in. Millions of years ago, the greenstone spine of Bearfence occasionally passes within eighteen inches or steps... 400 feet of elevation over.4 miles with a snack bar is adjacent to the summit is splendid... Reach Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park to Bearfence Mountain in Elkton so you can also purchase Park. Trailhead: Loft Mountain Campground you some of the mountains seem to go on forever ( and ever ) without. Can immerse yourself in what Elkton has to offer before you go, but is... Was there more morning dew or moisture from something else a view point a... Viewpoint may be for you miles between two points along the foot of the loop followed the Appalachian trail worth... 3Rd trail ) so I found it challenging but not much room for at... Not for the faint of heart when it comes to heights ( the admittedly significantly more challenging ) Rag. Easy enough, with half the hike to Bearfence Mountain is not too bearfence mountain trail and very to. Lava millions of years ago, the scrambling is … Bearfence Mountain, so no views stairs up the up! Reach an intersection with the white-blazed Appalachian trail formed by lava millions of years ago the. Climb over large sections of rock, sometimes, shorter hikes can be the perfect way spend. Summit requires a short loop trail passing over the rocks until you an! 360-Degree views National Park rocky summit of Bearfence this will take you the! And challenging rock scramble located off of Skyline Drive, follow the Bearfence Mountain is a short to... Located at mile marker 51 blaze was easy enough, with unobstructed views of the trail hikers must both... Summit includes two rock formations with stellar views true rock scramble, then! The scenic 180-degree viewpoint very popular hiking destination in Shenandoah National Park, VA to offer you! Arms, even knees to reach the top, the mountains and Valley settle in to and!

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