The Experience
You will love: This here is a little hidden treasure with wonderful topography, robust views and serenity..
You need to know:
Your adventure begins at Forest Road 374 , the parking area is a extremely small cutout from the road with the trailhead directly across the road. This is very easy to miss since there is absolutely zero signage for the trail. Your trail will use the orange blaze representing the Massanutten trail. It begins with a steady but easily managed ascent, in fact its not long before the quiet and serenity set in. The trail navigates along narrow single track and one of the best moments (aside from the summit) was being immersed in a dense pine grove while walking the ridge. Just imagine the smell of pine, towering above while small trail windows open up to reveal the elevated view starting to form. The trail continues around the ridge with a small third ascent before reaching an intersection with the Copernicus Ridge trail, it is nicely marked with a cairn. Turn left and head up for the first of four overlooks. Each are small pockets of granite slab situated perfectly for a view of the Edinburg Gap and Kennedy Peak off in the distance. The beauty of this trail is truly its ability to glide to these peaceful overlooks, perfect for a small snack and kick back moment. To return to your car, retrace the steps.
HIKE ON!
GEAR RECOMMENDATIONS
You need to know:
- Part of George Washington National Forest
- Be aware of copperheads and rattlesnakes
- No fee required
Your adventure begins at Forest Road 374 , the parking area is a extremely small cutout from the road with the trailhead directly across the road. This is very easy to miss since there is absolutely zero signage for the trail. Your trail will use the orange blaze representing the Massanutten trail. It begins with a steady but easily managed ascent, in fact its not long before the quiet and serenity set in. The trail navigates along narrow single track and one of the best moments (aside from the summit) was being immersed in a dense pine grove while walking the ridge. Just imagine the smell of pine, towering above while small trail windows open up to reveal the elevated view starting to form. The trail continues around the ridge with a small third ascent before reaching an intersection with the Copernicus Ridge trail, it is nicely marked with a cairn. Turn left and head up for the first of four overlooks. Each are small pockets of granite slab situated perfectly for a view of the Edinburg Gap and Kennedy Peak off in the distance. The beauty of this trail is truly its ability to glide to these peaceful overlooks, perfect for a small snack and kick back moment. To return to your car, retrace the steps.
HIKE ON!
GEAR RECOMMENDATIONS
- 1 Water bottles
- hiking shoes or sneakers
- light snack
- Bug Spray
