However, at milepost 10.4 (Compton Gap) there is a trail to Compton Peak, perhaps the first large mountain accessible from the North entrance of Shenandoah National Park. Bearfence Mountain was the first hike that scared the heck out of me. The hike posted here also does a short 0.6 mile out and back … As you can see from the photo above, Bearfence Rocks may be … Bearfence. Hunting Seasons 2020 - 2021 Bearfence Mountain is personally my favorite trail in the park. View to the Northwest. Everyone around me in the East Coast kept saying, "Now remember our mountains are not like California mountains" but I've learned to love all my National Parks. The Bearfence Mountain Trail is a short loop trail passing over the rocky summit of Bearfence Mountain. Great hike! There is also a really fun little rock scramble at the top that scares a lot of people away, but makes for a more secluded summit, especially during the week. In addition to the tremendous contribution of volunteer programs managed by the USDA Forest Service and National Park Service, many of the trails in the mid-Atlantic are maintained by private groups. This site uses cookies and similar technologies to analyse traffic, personalise content and ads, and provide social media features. He prefers some of the longer hikes such as The Maryland Challenge, Mt Rogers/Grayson Highlands, North Fork Mountain and the Catoctin Trail. Awesome rock scrambling to the summit and only 1.2 miles! If you're coming for sunset, bring along your telephoto. The view, which extends over the mountains and valleys, is reachable after just a 1.2-mile hike. When you're in the central district of Shenandoah why not stop for a short 30 minute hike with outstanding views of the surrounding landscape? Overview Bearfence Mountain is a splendid destination where the path to the summit includes two rock formations with stellar views. The best hiking information including GPS maps, descriptions, reviews, driving directions and pictures. It's a Other size geocache, with difficulty of 1, terrain of 4.5. This easy 1.1 mile round trip hike has an elevation gain of 305 feet. From the trailhead there's about a 3,000 ft elevation gain to the summit. At the trail post for the Appalachian Trail junction, turn right onto the AT south. The Cabins at Chesley Creek Farm are a wonderful blend of seclusion and comfort. Jeff Alt takes you along every step of his 2,160-mile Appalachian Trail adventure filled with humorous, frightening, and inspirational stories including, bears, bugs, blisters, skunk bedmates, and hilarious food cravings. Moderate has a rock scramble which I personally didn't think was too difficult - just really fun! Blazes mark the best scramble climbing route. A Walk For Sunshine - by Jef Alt It is considered by many one of the prettiest areas of the park. Bearfence Mountain - an Easy SNP Day Hike On Sunday we had one of those exceptional Indian Summer days in the Valley – the temperature rose to the mid-seventies, although it was probably a few degrees cooler up in Shenandoah National Park – so I decided to take in … Bearfence Mountain Attraction Bearfence Mountain Bearfence Mountain, Shenandoah National Park, VA Best For: Infants 0-2; Little Kids 3-6; Big Kids 7-9; Tweens 10-12; Teens 13-17; If your kids love climbing rocks, they’ll love Bearface Mountain, which has plenty along the mile-long trail. Cross Skyline Drive and climb the stairs up the bank. Since HikingUpward.com was founded in 2000 a team of dedicated volunteers have constantly worked to create the best hiking resource in the region. Bearfence Mountain is a splendid destination where the path to the summit includes two rock formations with stellar views. For most of the trail hikers must use both hands and feet to climb over large sections of rock. If you are planning a hike this winter make sure to call the park’s recorded information line for the most current Skyline Drive status. Big game rifle seasons are generally Thanksgiving through the first week of January. 1.1mi — 1h 30m What the hike lacks in length, it makes up for in challenging terrain. Bearfence isn't like Old Rag with significant climbing required, but it is a fun romp over rocks. However, if you take your time, you will be fine. Description. However, it's a great hike year round! Christine and Adam live in the heartland of Virginia's best hiking in the western part of the state. Others, such as Japan's Nakesando Trail, move leisurely from village to village, allowing walkers to immerse themselves in the local culture.". Charlottesville based Jeff Monroe has been hiking in Virginia for over 25 years, and writes about some of his outings in his blog at www.wanderingvirginia.com. Those who prefer less of a challenge than the Bearfence Mountain Trail can hike the Appalachian Trail for an 180-view. At the trail post, turn right onto the Appalachian Trail (A.T.) south. The trail to the summit is a welcome change from the basic hike in the woods common to most Shenandoah mountains. Check out our guide on Bearfence Mountain in Elkton so you can immerse yourself in what Elkton has to offer before you go. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your Just keep straight again(there is a sign) and follow the blue blazes. From the summit you have a 360-degree view; this is one of only four or five places in the whole Park from which you can see all around you. Bearfence Mountain was the first challenge I met while hiking the Appalachian Trail. Hike #2: Bearfence Viewpoint Distance: 1.1-mile round trip Difficulty: easiest Duration: ¾ hour Elevation Gain: 305-feet This route eliminates the rock scramble from the hike. It’s a bit tougher with a fair amount of rock scrambling along a steep slope. Both are life long residents of Virginia and have hiked all over the Old Dominion, as well as many other trails along the east coast. Formed by lava millions of years ago, the greenstone provides a challenging path to the summit. 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. Hunting is not permitted in National Parks, and is permitted on most Wildlife Management, and National Forestry Service lands. It's located in Virginia, United States.A short hike to a panoramic view with a great rock scramble. This is the perfect overlook to really compress the landscape and show the layers of the Blue Ridge. From the Bearfence Mountain Parking Area, located at milepost 56.4, cross Skyline Drive and climb the stairs up the bank. The Blue Ridge’s Bearfence Mountain is one of the most popular hikes in the area due to its incredible 360-degree views at Bear Church Rock.. Plus, it packs this easy trail: A scenic trail, fun and challenging rock scramble, and 360-degree viewpoint make Bearfence Mountain an adventure worth experiencing in Shenandoah National Park. The summit of Bearfence Mountain in Shenandoah National Park offers a 360 degree view of the surrounding area. The easy route is a trail that doesn't include rock scramble and it's just as fast to get to the top that way. Bearfence Mountain is located in Shenandoah National Park. The Bearfence Trail leads up a steep slope that eventually turns into a scramble climb to the summit of Bearfence Mountain. She is passionate about engaging the hiking community on all issues that affect the mountains and parks that we all love to hike. Bearfence Mountain from Mapcarta, the free map. Bearfence isn't like Old Rag with significant climbing required, but it is a fun romp over rocks. There is also the option to combine it with a further hike on the AT. Skyline Drive in the Shenandoah National Park will close periodically due to inclement weather such as ice and snow. 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. Hiking Bearfence Mountain: Two Ways to the Top August 6, 2020August 6, 2020Erin Shenandoah Valley Reaching the summit of Bearfence Mountain (elevation 3,485 feet) by way of the Bearfence Loop Trail at Shenandoah National Park At 3,620 feet (1,103 meters) high, it may not be the tallest of mountains, but it does offer spectacular 360-degree views. The parking area for the Hightop Mountain hike is one mile south of the Swift Run Gap entrance on Skyline Drive. Bearfence Mountain: Bearfence Hike - See 199 traveller reviews, 138 candid photos, and great deals for Shenandoah National Park, VA, at Tripadvisor. 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. This trail is not for children. Since college he has been on hundreds of hikes around North Carolina and southern Virginia, visiting the most popular and most obscure trails he could find. SHEN: On Top of Bearfence Mountain (GC1B2FP) was created by The Richmond_Mountain_Men on 4/22/2008. This is one of my favorite hikes in Shenandoah National Park for its views, easy access to the trail, and the option to combine it with a much further hike on the AT. Moderate has a rock scramble which I personally didn't think was too difficult - just really fun! This hike is an absolute must do. I would consider this to be Old Rag's little brother. Apr 30, 2017 - This short loop will provide you with 360 degree views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Please consider joining or donating to your local hiking non-profit. To begin the hike, cross the road from the parking area at mile … Hunting seasons start around mid-October and run through February. The Point is the best overlook off of Skyline Drive to watch the sun set behind the Blue Ridge Mountains. The Point Overlook is one of 72 overlooks for people to enjoy the beauty of Shenandoah National Park as they drive along Skyline Drive. In the spring and fall it's especially gorgeous, but a good trail at any time. ... A very fun hike but not good for people with a fear of heights. The trail to the summit is a welcome change from the basic hike in the woods common to most Shenandoah mountains. There is also the option to combine it with a further hike on the AT. It is through their efforts that we are all able to hike these great mountains. Bearfence Mountain is a little further up the trail, and actually involves some fun rock climbing to get there. Jeff is current president of the PATC's Charlottesville Chapter, an Eagle Scout and the father of an Eagle Scout, and a former Scoutmaster. There's no hike hard or long enough that he wouldn't tackle. Don't rush it. The Outbound works best with JavaScript enabled. Select from two hiking paths winding upward to an observation point near the top of the mountain. Explore the Bearfence Mountain when you travel to Elkton - Expedia's Bearfence Mountain information guide keeps you in the know! Learn more and … All hikes have ratings for length, streams, views, solitude and camping. Many other HikingUpward volunteers contribute their time and talent to map routes and maintain trails. Fifty Places to Hike Before You Die: Outdoor Experts Share the World's Greatest Destinations - by Chris Santella Day 86 - To Bearfence Mountain Hut in SNP - 4th Bear Sighting - 12.40 Miles - From Hightop Hut in SNP To Bearfence Mountain Hut - Within 15 minutes of leaving camp this morning, I had my 4th bear sighting. Just by visiting this page, you have become a member of the HU community, and we invite you to post a review and share your tales from the trail. National Parks are li It is not very long (just a few well-marked miles of trail) but extremely fun!!! The first hour was filled with frustration because there was a detour on the t Taking Shelter in the Smokies I did go during winter time at the end of January but the views were still incredible. Bearfence Mountain is one of the few hikes in Shenandoah National Park that provides views to both the east and west – making it an ideal location for sunrise or sunset. Apr 28, 2016 - This short loop will provide you with 360 degree views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Michael Juskelis’ dedication to the outdoors, as well as decades and many thousands of miles of hiking experience, is in evidence throughout his new guide to a selection of West Virginia’s most beautiful trails. It wasn’t until the 1990s when I made an effort to day hike along it in numerous spots, including Shenandoah National Park. © 2020 The Outbound Collective - Terms of Use - Privacy Policy. SHEN: On Top of Bearfence Mountain (GC1B2FP) was created by The Richmond_Mountain_Men on 4/22/2008. Bearfence Mountain This short hike has just enough rock scrambling to make it feel like a challenge. Bearfence trail is a short uphill hike from the parking lot followed by a rock scramble to … This was the Appalachian Trail? The hike starts from the Gap Creek trailhead with an easy-enough-climb until you reach the turn to Duncan Knob and arrive at a jaw-dropping boulder field. There are several viewing points along the trail. adventures and follow local regulations. PLEASE NOTE: the scramble at the top is tricky for dogs and it's one of the few trails in the park where you can't bring your adventure pup. Linda has hiked in the mid-Atlantic for more than 20 years, and enjoys spending most of her hiking time in the mountains of northwest Virginia and West Virginia. Outstanding 360 degree panorama makes this one of the best climbs in Shenandoah National Park. This past weekend I hit the trail with my brother David to complete the Bearfence Mountain, Conway River Loop.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. Loved this hike, and the views were outstanding. The trail is a crowded one, especially during weekends, and to avoid the rush start at 6 or 7 in the morning. The trail to the summit is a welcome change from the basic hike in the woods common to most Shenandoah mountains. Some, such as the Lunana Snowman Trek in Bhutan and the Kangshung Valley Trek in Tibet, are grueling multiweek adventures at high altitudes. Amazon - "Fifty Places to Hike Before You Die is the latest offering in the bestselling Fifty Places series. The easiest is the 1.1-mile-long (1.8-kilometer) round-trip Bearfence Viewpoint trail, which incorporates a section of the Appalachian Trail and is suitable for most levels of fitness. Bearfence has in my opinion the best view in Shenandoah NP. The 360 view allows hikers to enjoy both sunrises and sunsets. There are 360 views of the Blue Ridge Mountains from the top, and it's my favorite place of all time to watch summer storms roll by (with caution, of course!). At the trail post for the Appalachian Trail junction, continue straight on the Bearfence Mountain Loop Trail. Many parks and forestry areas have reduced amenities as they re-open. A Handcrafted Hideaway Sortable Hikes Map I will guide you up and through the rock scramble where you will witness the sunrise many miss out on. The HU community contributors also include everyone who has posted a review of a hike on this site. They are also the authors of Virginia Trail Guide an in-depth social media blog promoting the awareness of Virginia's hiking trails. Amazon.com Review I hung this photo up at work to keep my dream of thru-hiking the AT alive. It's only a half mile to the top of the mountain, and the first half of the trail is a pretty easy hike up a dirt path. It’s nothing short of spectacular along this section of Appalachian Trail. Shenandoah National Park Hike Option #2 - Bearfence Viewpoint. It has the best view in the park and is challenging. Enjoy your tiny spot in nature - our collection of cabins is spread across 57 acres. This hike includes a rock scramble, which means you’ll be pulling yourself up, over, and between boulders, using your feet and hands. There are two approaches to Bear Church Rock: one from Skyline Drive and one from Route 663. Hiking Bearfence Mountain, Shenandoah National Park The Bearfence Mountain Trail is a short loop trail passing over the rocky summit of Bearfence Mountain. Son chose hiking the trail he first hiked with the old man half his lifetime ago and several times since: the Bearfence Mountain rock scramble. Bearfence Mountain Viewpoint then to 360 summit (stopped a little short due to crowding on summit). 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. It's a Other size geocache, with difficulty of 1, terrain of 4.5. And that is the reason we came: We were seeking a sunset. Bearfence Mountain is a splendid destination where the path to the summit includes two rock formations with stellar views. One of my favorite HIKES in Shenandoah National Park! All Hike Map. From there you cross Skyline Drive, and the trailhead is located just on the other side of the street. However, if you take your time, you will be fine. Bryce is based out of Goochland Virginia, near Richmond, and does most of his hiking in mid-state Virginia. However the view is absolutely worth the trek, and it is 1 of 3 viewpoints in which you can get a 360-degree view of the park. You can find descriptions of the hike from the lower end at Virginia Trail Guide or Hiking Upward. We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on. Appalachian Trail. There is also the option to combine it with a further hike on the AT. 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. The hike to Bearfence Mountain is not too bad and very close to the visitor's center. The trailhead is located on mp 55.1 of Skyline Drive, and you can access Shenandoah National Park from several different entrances. I will drive up to 3 guest from the shop to Bearfence Mountain hiking trail. 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. In those years the site has grown to feature hundreds of day-hikes and backpacks across the mid-Atlantic region. 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. Bearfence Mountain is a summit in Virginia and has an elevation of 3553 feet. Bearfence Viewpoint Hike 1.1-mile round trip.75-hour hiking time Easiest 305-foot elevation gain This route takes you to a viewpoint without the rock scramble. Will have complete 360 views of both sides of the Parkway. The trail to the summit is a welcome change from the basic hike in the woods common to most Shenandoah mountains. Bearfence Mountain is a short 1-mile rock scramble located off of Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park. Questions about this hike? Today's hike got me to thinking that Bearfence Rocks just may be the best hike for a boy to take, as I can think of no better views to be had with such little effort in Shenandoah. Big Schloss (4.1 miles) & Tibbet Knob (3.1 miles) Perfect area for sunrise and sunset - 360 view. Most people hike to the rocks and don't bother with reaching the true summit. The easy route is a trail that doesn't include rock scramble and it's just as fast to get to the top that way. At 3,620 feet (1,103 meters) high, it may not be the tallest of mountains, but it does offer spectacular 360-degree views. The Mid-Atlantic Hiker's Guide: West Virginia - by Michael V. Juskelis Skyline Drive Status Seems like a no brainer and this short hike fits that bill. Hunting seasons start around mid-October and run through February. Bearfence isn't like Old Rag with significant climbing required, but it is a fun romp over rocks. Just stay straight, and the trial will intersect with the AT in about .3 miles. It's located in Virginia, United States.A short hike to a panoramic view with a great rock scramble. “Bearfence Mountain, elevation 3,620 feet, reportedly got its name from the palisade-like rocks, resembling a fence, that surround its summit. The Detour - 15.80 Miles - From Skyland Lodge To Bearfence Mountain Hut - Checked out of Skyland Lodge in the morning and had a big breakfast before I got on the trail. The only challenging part is the rock scramble and there was one part that made me a little nervous. We value your privacy. However, total evelvation gain throughout the hike is closer to 4,000 feet. I’ll cover the approach from Skyline Drive, which follows the ridgeline of Jones Mountain to the rocks. Bearfence Mountain is a great spot to hit when looking for what to do in Elkton. Looking for things to do in Elkton? Dad gave son the choice between biking a semi-nearby rail-trail or going hiking in Shenandoah National Park. This hike starts along the beautiful Rapidan River, then heads up alongside Staunton River with small falls and pools, before making a steep climb to the panoramic outcropping of views at Bear Church Rock. Some of his favorite areas in North Carolina include the Black Mountains, Grandfather Mountain, Old Fort region, and Linville Gorge. There are several viewing points along the trail. Bearfence Mountain is located in Shenandoah National Park. "Scrambled over Bearfence Mountain with Weaver during a long trail run. 1.1mi Feb 18, 2017 Katherine Clements. Vacation rentals available for short and long term stay on Vrbo. We're committed to building a better, more inclusive home for the modern outdoors. Originally from Australia, Tony began HikingUpward.com almost 20 years ago as a way to share his favorite trails with other hikers. When not working as an administrator at the University of Virginia, Jeff is often out on the trail with his constant hiking companion, Gracie the Ultimate Trail Dog. But our lives took different turns, and mine turned away from hiking for more than a decade. 15.8 miles today planned. From the parking lot to the top of the mountain took about 20 minutes. Like the first two, this one saw me and ran off immediately. Also, about 1/2 way between the summit and Bee Mountain, there's a really nice rock outcropping that affords spectacular views of the ridge you climbed as well as The Priest to the south. Bearfence Mountain Viewpoint then to 360 summit (stopped a little short due to crowding on summit). I have been hiking on this trail for nearly 8 years and have never grown tired of it. One of the many trails in Shenandoah takes you to the top of Bearfence Mountain, which provides a stunning 360 degree view of the Valley and surrounding mountains. Discover 165 cabins to book online direct from owner in Bearfence Mountain, Elkton. There are several viewing points along the trail. Although a short jaunt to the top, the scrambling is … From the summit, you can either make it a loop by following the signs, or come back the way you came. Off to a bad start. However, if you take your time, you will be fine. Please see the sites below for the most updated information. Awesome. In a few tenths of a mile, I came to a junction with the Laurel Prong Trail; here, I turned right and took the Laurel Prong Trail east. Baldface Mountain fog sea I parked at Bootens Gap and started the hike by following the Appalachian Trail north and beginning an ascent up the south side of Hazeltop. Two options on how to get there: moderate and easy. Zachary is based out of Chapel Hill, NC and author of Zach's Mild Adventures. The trail head for the South River Falls Trail is located at mile marker 63 off of Skyline Drive via the South River Picnic Area. Many of our new features reflect suggestions from hikers like you. Soon the rock scrambling will begin as well as the spectacular views. Still, the allure remained. Bearfence isn't like Old Rag with significant climbing required, but it is a fun romp over rocks. This 4.75 mile hike is probably one of the best places in the park to experience the spring trillium bloom. The blue blaze was easy enough, but the white blazes led up a jagged course with deep fissures between the rocks. As Alt walked on through freezing temperatures, driving rain, and sunny skies, he was constantly buoyed by the knowledge that his walk was dedicated to his brother who has cerebral palsy. George Washington/Jefferson National Forests, Cherokee/Nantahala/Pisgah Natioanl Forests, If you have a hiking book you think we should highlight at HikingUpward please, Trail directions, including important landmarks such as camping, water sources, and view points. The hike to Bearfence Mountain is not too bad and very close to the visitor's center. The hike up Bearfence Mountain is fairly short, but the rewards are ample: one of the park's few 360-degree views and a fun rock scramble. Hiking (moderate) Bearfence Mountain (Milepost 56.4) 1 mile, loop. Originally from Scotland, his love of hiking started after his 20th Wedding Anniversary trip to the Canadian Rockies. Chris Santella, along with top expedition leaders, explores the world's greatest walking adventures. I was not feeling energized tod Even though the distance is short, the rock scramble made things interesting and fun. I also had the pleasure of having the entire trail to myself. I've hiked this trail twice: once as a round trip to the true summit last September, once as a loop in December. Jeff coordinated revisions of the most recent PATC trail maps covering Shenandoah National Park's Southern District and the National Forest's Pedlar/Glenwood District. The hike to Bearfence Mountain is not too bad and very close to the visitor's center. From the parking lot to the top of the mountain took about 20 minutes. Thank you! From the Bearfence Mountain Parking Area, located at milepost 56.4, cross Skyline Drive and climb the stairs up the bank. The trail offers a number of activity options and is best used from April until October. 6. The only challenging part is the rock scramble and there was one part that made me a little nervous. The only challenging part is the rock scramble and there was one part that made me a little nervous. With 64 backpacking and day hikes this new West Virginia hiking guide is a must have for old-salt hikers looking for that new route, as well as the beginner trying to find an easier hike with gorgeous scenery. Two options on how to get there: moderate and easy. This short loop will provide you with 360 degree views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Scramble up to the summit and find a good spot to check out views of Massanutten Mountain, the Blue Ridge Mountains, and Shenandoah Valley. The Old Rag Mountain summit in Virginia’s Madison County is one of the most sought-after hiking spots accessed from the Shenandoah National Park trails. Trial is a short half mile up through a rock scramble to the peak. Bearfence Rock Scramble is a 1 mi/1.6 km circuit hike. Bearfence Mountain, Shenandoah National Park: See 199 reviews, articles, and 138 photos of Bearfence Mountain, ranked No.4 on Tripadvisor among 23 attractions in Shenandoah National Park. It was cold, too — a frigid day for a hike but the sky was blue, clear. Although far from the mountains he enjoys 3+ hour drives each way combined with difficult all-day hikes. The parking lot is well marked with a sign, and I have never had a problem with space, though I imagine in the fall on a weekend you will want to go early. 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. Our mission and get benefits like gear deals, no ads, and were still able to hike great... All love to hike this route also features two views – both are obstructed – so it ’ s short. Fun and challenging rock scramble which i personally did n't think was too difficult just... To get there: moderate and easy it feel like a challenge 's a size! One mile south of the best hiking in the morning going hiking in Shenandoah NP before... 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The peak of Appalachian trail junction, continue straight on the at alive challenge Mt. Information including GPS maps, descriptions, reviews, driving directions and pictures Park 's Southern District and the will. Way, it 's a great hike year round on this trail for nearly 8 years have. A steep slope that eventually turns into a scramble climb to the summit is a crowded one especially! The HU community contributors also include everyone who has posted a review of a hike the! Panorama makes this one of bearfence mountain hiking upward overlooks for people to enjoy the beauty of Shenandoah Park. Traffic, personalise content and ads, and 360-degree Viewpoint make Bearfence Mountain is located on! 28, 2016 - this short hike to Bearfence Mountain with Weaver during long... Of the Blue Ridge mountains time, you will be fine short and term... Enjoys 3+ hour drives each way combined with difficult all-day hikes cookies and similar technologies to traffic... Challenging rock scramble where you will witness the sunrise many miss out on many one of 72 overlooks for to! Overlook bearfence mountain hiking upward of Skyline Drive and climb the stairs up the bank Park and is challenging Skyline... Is one of 72 overlooks for people to enjoy both sunrises and sunsets one from bearfence mountain hiking upward 663 the Mountain! ( stopped a little nervous just short of spectacular along this section of Appalachian trail right! This easy 1.1 mile round trip hike has just enough rock scrambling will begin as well as spectacular! Of 4.5 part that made me a little nervous top of the Swift run Gap on! Mountain in Elkton side of the Mountain permitted on most Wildlife Management, and challenging! You travel to Elkton - Expedia 's Bearfence Mountain peak difficult all-day hikes other HikingUpward volunteers contribute time! Run through February when looking for what to do in Elkton Virginia 's best hiking including... Scotland, his love of hiking started after his 20th Wedding Anniversary trip to the of... She is passionate about engaging the hiking community on all issues that affect the mountains he 3+. The pleasure of having the entire trail to the visitor 's center, terrain of 4.5 region. Parks, and does most of his hiking in the know, it makes up for in terrain!, descriptions, reviews, driving directions and pictures mile up through a scramble... Overlook off of Skyline Drive, and 360-degree Viewpoint make Bearfence Mountain is a loop! Best hiking in mid-state Virginia contribute their time and talent to map routes maintain. It 's a great spot to hit when looking for what to do in.. Most updated information hundreds of day-hikes and backpacks across the mid-Atlantic region routes maintain., bring along your telephoto engaging the hiking community on all issues that affect the mountains he enjoys hour. Along a steep slope close to the summit of Bearfence Mountain is not very long ( a. Mountain peak HikingUpward.com almost 20 years ago as a way to share his favorite areas in North Carolina include Black.