Bearfence Mountain Trail, Shenandoah NP

This was another hike almost straight up with no level spots, however one shortly arrived at the famous rock climb over rocks that, over time, have shifted 70 degrees to be almost vertical, while other round boulders remain whole overtime.  Soon I was enjoying a 360 panoramic view with views of Massanutten Mountain and Shenandoah Valley all to myself.  This was a rocky hike so the pace was a bit slow at times.  There were a few places along the trail where there was a sheer 50’ drop so paying attention was important.  After soaking in the 360 degree view of the surrounding peaks and valleys, I continued on the Bearfence Loop Trail until it came to a dead-end at the AT.  I took the AT back to the parking lot and concluded the day’s and weekend’s hike.  Total hike was 1.2 miles and about 1.5 hours.  

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