LOCATION: Skyline drive (mm 42.5)
TRAIL DISTANCE: 1.5 Miles
TRAIL HEAD/ DIRECTIONS: SKYLAND AMPITHEATRE
TRAIL TYPE: In & Out
TRAIL GRADE:  Moderate (2)
TRAIL PARKING: 10 Spots or Less
KEY WORDS: Ages 5+ , Summit views, Family
TRAIL INFO
What’s to like about the trail: Perfect for families and kids 5+. has all the ingredients for fun: fun , short , easy to navigate trail with a big bold view at its end
Why go for a hike on this trail:  A leg stretcher in the heart of SNP.  find less crowds and big views
Best time to go for a hike on this trail:  all four seasons, avoid icy conditions ​

Summary:   
Optimal entrance to this hike is the Thornton Gap entance of Shenandoah National Park off route 211.
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Your adventure begins at the Skyland Amphitheatre parking lot, A small grassy area to park and hop on the trail. From the parking lot, the trail will be on your right side and up a small embankment. The trail itself starts with a small ascent, a potpourri of stones, roots and compacted dirt to greet you. This leads for 0.2 miles to a spectacular overlook called Bushytop mountain. This is a true trail window, as the forest frames the view of the below Luray Valley. At the overlook, stands a small trailhead (stone pillar with metal wrap) while Millers head is not cited here, this is where you continue your adventure veering right. The trail begins its slithering descent over small rock outcrops and within beautiful forest canopy. There are a few tricky footing spots but in general this is an easy trail to navigate and enjoy with your family. The trail concludes at the former location of a fire tower now replaced with a designated sightseeing plateau. Enjoy 180 degree views of the Luray Valley and too your left the continuation of Shenandoah National Park and Skyline Drive. Upon soaking up the views, the return to the car is a retrace of your steps, this time with a 450 ft. elevation gain.  Luckily, this is a short hike that is over before you know it. For those hiking with kids bring the trail candy to get the little ones up the hill.

HIKE ON!
GEAR RECOMMENDATIONS

LOCAL

  • NEARBY HIKES
  • THINGS TO KNOW
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  • Shenandoah National Park entrance fee is $30.00
  • be BEAR, snake and tick aware.
  • great for kids and families!
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