Trail Info

​TRAIL DISTANCE: 6.2 Miles
TRAIL HEAD / DIRECTIONS:  route 211
TRAIL TYPE: loop
TRAIL GRADE: strenuous (4)
TRAIL PARKING: 10-15 spaces
DOG FRIENDLY: No
FAMILY FRIENDLY: No​

You will love:  Beautiful mature forest, light human traffic, good challenging day hike.
You need to know:​  Although this parking is in the SNP area, it does not require a pass or fee to use.

What to pack

• 2 water bottle
• heavy snacks / trail bars
• hiking shoes or trail runners
• bug spray

Extras

SNP Trail Finder

The Experience

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Located just outside Sperryville, VA sits bucks hollow. the parking lot is a tiny dirt cutout from route 211 and fills quickly. the trail can be combined with Mary's Rock (once at Skyline Drive) for an extra 2.3 miles.

The trail begins off the route 211 parking lot, it'll quickly traverses a small creek and then at the fork in the trail, go left for the challenge of the Buck Ridge trail. The ridge trail will laugh off any stair climber workout as it proceeds to climb over 1000 ft. in elevation at a rapid pace. You will wonder if this ascent ever ends. I call this section the onion because if you are wearing layers you will quickly find yourself shedding them to just stay cool during this portion of the trail. Alas have no fear, the trail tops off at the ridge and slithers along under mature trees and forest fauna. There is more elevation to gain but the climb is far more accommodating now as you venture up to Skyline Drive. As i said you can chose to cross skyline and head up mary's rock or turn right in the parking lot and continue the buck hollow loop. The return trip is far more inviting as its a wander down the mountain, riding a trail comprised of packed dirt and roots. The beauty of this portion are the trail side small mountain side waterfalls which provide the symphony of tranquil flowing water sounds. The trail has plenty of perfect spots to take a break. The loop will bring you back to where you met the Buck Ridge, from here continue straight to meet the route 211 parking lot.


HIKE ON!