LOCATION: Luray, VA
TRAIL DISTANCE: 5.0 Miles
TRAIL HEAD/ PARKING: ROUTE 675
TRAIL TYPE: In & Out
TRAIL GRADE:  Difficult(3)
TRAIL PARKING: 10 spots or more
KEY WORDS:  Big forest, Summit view
TRAIL INFO
What’s to like about the trail: Well maintained and marked trail with dense forest canopy and a big 270 degree summit view.
Why go for a hike on this trail:  This is a wonderful day hike just outside the town of Luray. the summit view is unique (fire tower), as it is empowering and inviting!
Best time to go for a hike on this trail:  Spring, Summer & Fall​

Summary  
Your adventure begins from route 675, The Stephens Trail and Massanutten Trailhead. A special side note, be mindful of the parking and especially the no parking signs. The trailhead is found off route 675, it is a wide forest road/ trail and clearly marked with orange trail markers (Massanutten trail). The trail terrain is rocky (stones & small rocks) for the entire duration (I like to call these ankle busters). Your adventure will use the orange trail marked Massanutten trail system for 2.2 miles as it weaves around the mountain and through the saddle towards the Kennedy Peak fire tower. The limited elevation and heavy tree canopy provides a quite enjoyable experience even during the summer months. As you continue to saunter, the trail begins a slow but minor ascent for .75 miles until it reaches the intersection with the Kennedy Peak trail (white trail mark). The intersection is clear and very well marked with two large wooden signs. At this intersection, make a right and head upwards to the look out. The trail becomes rockier, with larger boulders coming to join your journey as well as stunning trail views of the Luray valley. At this point you are riding a small ridgeline to the fire tower, so be mindful of any veering off the trail for a picture.  As you approach the summit, the first visual will be the base of the fire tower and a small shelter , primitive campsite, just around the shelter will be a set of stairs to get you up top. The fire tower provides 270 degree views of the Luray Valley, including the slithering Shenandoah River and in the distance is Shenandoah National Park and Skyline drive. The view is yours to enjoy and engage, once fulfilled return to your car via the same route you came. 

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HIKE ON!
GEAR RECOMMENDATIONS

LOCAL

  • NEARBY HIKES
  • THINGS TO KNOW
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  • NO Entrance Fee
  • Very Popular on weekends,. arrive early
  • lack of Cell Reception 
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