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A short trail with moderately hard rock scrambles, but great views!


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Map Key

1.1

Miles

1.8

KM

82%

Runnable

3,578' 1,091 m

High

3,356' 1,023 m

Low

232' 71 m

Up

232' 71 m

Down

8%

Avg Grade (5°)

15%

Max Grade (9°)

Dogs No Dogs

Features Fall Colors · Views · Wildlife

Overview

Though this trail will lead you past several false summits, be sure to hold out and continue to press on for the real thing. The 360-degree views are well worth the moderate climb required to reach the summit.

Runner Notes

A great change of terrain on this one from steeper trails, to steps, to rock scrambles.

Description

As you pull into the parking lot look across the road for the trailhead. This trail has many different side trails branching off of it. This can make it important to remember how to get back, but can also lead to exploring so many other trails at the same time. If you are worried about getting lost, just be sure to use the Trail Run Project mobile app to help navigate.

The trail is well marked and as you get about halfway in, the rock scrambles begin. Having a shoe with some good sticky rubber for traction is great here. Some light climbing is involved in the rock scrambles, and you can even boulder a few spots along the trail. In the winter, this trail has a good chance for ice and snow.

Make sure to sit on top of one of the rocks and have a bite to eat while enjoying the amazing views all around you. This is one of the best trails in the park for sunrise/sunset views. It is short enough to get you to a great view while still being enough of a challenge to be rewarding.

Contacts

Shared By:

Ben Stockdon with improvements by J H

Trail Ratings

  4.7 from 55 votes

#184

Overall
  4.7 from 55 votes
5 Star
73%
4 Star
20%
3 Star
7%
2 Star
0%
1 Star
0%
Recommended Route Rankings

#9

in Virginia

#184

Overall
19 Views Last Month
3,912 Since Dec 1, 2015
Intermediate/Difficult Intermediate/Difficult

0%
2%
26%
16%
56%
0%

Photos

Sunset view from atop Bearfence.
May 25, 2016 near Stanley, VA
Looking west from the summit of Bearfence Mountain.  Massanutten mountain in the distance.
Jan 16, 2023 near Stanley, VA

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All Clear 5 days ago
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