March 29, 2024

Shenandoah Sampler – Spring 2017 (Day Hike, 6-8 Miles, Challenging)

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Date(s)
Saturday, 04/29/2017

Time(s)
8:00 am - 7:00 pm

Calendar Exports
iCal, Google Calendar

Location
Shenandoah National Park

This trip is part of a continuing “Seasonal Sampler Series” in which we explore various sections of Shenandoah National Park at different times of the year.  This spring, we will be touring the Central District, which includes many miles of trails leading to overlooks, waterfalls, historic, and geologic features.  We’ll begin at the Thornton Gap entrance to Skyline Drive and head south toward Swift Run Gap, stopping at trailheads along the way.

Here’s the rundown for this trip:

  1. Pass Mountain to A.T. Hut (MP 31.6; 3.4 mile circuit; 670 ft elevation): A moderate hike through fairly open woods, a part of which is overgrown pasture.
  2. Skyland (MP 41.7):  Lunch break (either bring a bag lunch or purchase something at Skyland)
  3. Millers Head (MP 42.5; 1.6 mile out-and-back; 450 ft elevation): A fairly easy hike on a somewhat rocky trail, down a ridge to an observation platform with a fine, nearly 360-degree view.
  4. Fishers Gap to David’s Spring (MP 49.4; 1.8 miles; 470 ft elevation): Another fairly easy hike along the A.T. past an old homesite.
  5. Big Meadows/Byrd Visitors’ Center (MP 51): Break
  6. Big Meadows Lodge to Blackrock (MP 51.2, 0.4 miles, 60 ft elevation): Time permitting, a quick walk to take in a final view before heading home.

These are not the most popular hikes in SNP, but they are all new to CVT and should offer some nice views and spring wildflowers.  These would be great for beginning mountain hikers or veterans who are looking to cross a few of the lesser-known trails off their bucket lists.

Optional stop for dinner on the way back if there is interest.

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