This is hike #24 in the Potomac Appalachian Trail Club (patc.net) "Circuit Hikes" booklet. There are 7.0 mile (4 hr) and 8.4 mile (5 hr) circuit options, depending on group and individual preference. Most of the way is shaded and/or near water, an advantage if temps are summery. Meet at 10am at the Rockfish Gap/South Entrance to Shenandoah National Park to carpool. Or make arrangement with leader to carpool from Charlottesville. Othewise, entry fee is $15 per car per day or $30 for an annual pass. Drive from the entrance (MilePost 105) to Jones Run Parking area (MP 84, 21 miles) to start the hike at 10:45. The circuits were developed by the CCC during the Depression and traverse deep gorges with cliffs and old growth tulip poplars. The area is rich in Civil War history. A good portion of these hikes is on the Appalachian Trail (AT). Optional dinner together in Charlottesville after. Bring good hiking boots, lunch, water, hiking poles (helpful on descents/ascent).

I-64 or US 250 to the intersection with Skyline Drive/Blue Ridge Parkway. Head north toward Skyline Drive, but stop to carpool/meet up just south of the NPS toll booth. Leader has grey Toyota Matrix.