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Bearfence Mountain Loop

Elkton, Virginia

4.8/5
based on 13 reviews

Details

Distance

1.04 miles

Elevation Gain

220 ft

Route Type

Loop

Description

Added by Christin Healey

This short loop will provide you with 360 degree views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. There is also the option to combine it with a further hike on the AT.

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. 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. 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!). In the spring and fall it's especially gorgeous, but a good trail at any time. 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.

The trailhead is located on mp 55.1 of Skyline Drive, and you can access Shenandoah National Park from several different entrances. 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. From there you cross Skyline Drive, and the trailhead is located just on the other side of the street. Just stay straight, and the trial will intersect with the AT in about .3 miles. Just keep straight again(there is a sign) and follow the blue blazes. When you get to the rock scramble, keep on the blue blazes until you reach the summit. From the summit, you can either make it a loop by following the signs, or come back the way you came. Either way, it's a ~1 mile hike.

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Features

Fitness
Photography
Hiking
Easy Parking
Forest
Romantic
Scenic

Bearfence Mountain Loop Reviews

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? Seems like a no brainer and this short hike fits that bill.

Bearfence has in my opinion the best view in Shenandoah NP. The 360 view allows hikers to enjoy both sunrises and sunsets.

Loved this hike, and the views were outstanding. Even though the distance is short, the rock scramble made things interesting and fun. We stayed through sunset, and were still able to make it back down before needing to use our headlamps. Great hike!

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Photograph The Point Overlook

Hike to Bear Church Rock via Bootens Gap

Hike to Naked Creek Falls

Hike to Historical Rapidan Camp in Shenandoah National Park

Lewis Falls via Lewis Spring

Big Meadows Loop