Sunday, Aug 25th Hike, Bearfence Mountain Tra, Shenandoah NP

The morning began with low hanging clouds as we headed out to the trailhead fearing that the hike up would be spoiled with a view of fog and clouds, but fear not it was (much).

This is a very popular hike for families and everyone alike and the parking lot fills up quickly.  We arrived at 9 a.m. and there was plenty of parking.  We crossed Skyline Drive and started the rather steep climb up, soon crossing the AT and continued our climb up, taking a few breaks to catch our breath.  We eventually came upon the rock/boulder section of the trail which requires you to clammer up over boulders and rock wedges bringing you to the first of several mountain views, the third which provides 360 degrees of views of surrounding mountains and if you look closely skyline drive as it climbs a hill opposite.

The trail climbs up the hill to provide another view although which is higher up is partially blocked by trees in a few areas.  The trail loops up and around the hill before heading back down and dropping you to the AT which gradually brings you back to the Bear Fence Trail and the starting point.

In Central Shenandoah National Park this is a hike to Bearfence Mountain for a 360 panoramic view with views of Massanutten Mountain and Shenandoah Valley.  This is a rocky hike so the pace might be a bit slow at times.  Total hike will be 1.2 miles and about 1.5 hours.  Bring at least a liter of water, hiking boots, hiking poles, lunch/snacks, a hat, sunscreen, bug spray and sweat rag.

https://www.nps.gov/shen/planyourvisit/upload/Bearfence_RoadTrail.pdf