LOCATION: Orkney Springs, Virginia
TRAIL DISTANCE: 6.4 Miles
TRAIL HEAD/ PARKING: Shrinemont
TRAIL TYPE: In & Out
TRAIL GRADE:  Strenuous (4)
TRAIL PARKING: 50 spots or less
KEY WORDS: Summit, Cave, Unique, Ages 12+
TRAIL INFO
What’s to like about the trail:  A trifecta of awesomeness... creek crossings, a cave and a perch summit with a big valley view.
Why go for a hike on this trail:  Be a kid at heart and tackle amazing natural features, this trail pushes your limits horizontally and vertically.
Best time to go for a hike on this trail:  Spring, Fall & Winter

Summary  
Your adventure begins at the ShrineMont facility, the parking is found behind the Virginia House. From the lot wander down to the front of the Virginia house and turn left heading up along the road toward ShrineMont circle. At the circle, veer left onto St George Camp Lane and stroll 100 feet to the top of the hill and enter the Cathedral Shrine of the Transfiguration.  Arriving at the Shrine and go right towards North Mountain trail via the North Link Trail. The North Link trail is a wide berthing trail through the forest via a red hash throughout. Use the North Link trail for one mile. You will find the trail begins to climb slowly and narrows through groves or pine and hardwoods. Continue straight using signs for North Mountain to guide the way. The trail traverses several small streams until it arrives at the junction of Bradford Trail (on your left) and North Mountain (on your right). Head right on North Mountain (blue hash) and notice the immediate shift in the terrain and the topography , as your new friends will be rocky and incline. For the next 0.6 continue to slowly climb along with the trail (note during rainy periods, the trail will become inundated with water). At the 0.6 mile mark you will come to a small creek crossing and a campsite, look left to see the natural cliff formation known as the SaltPeter Caves. The "caves" are accessible just behind a primative campsite via a small narrow climb up along the cliff. If you feel comfortable, then use the mix of dirt and boulders to navigate up to a small plateau. This area is stunning for its elevated view of the forest and creek. Enjoy a water break and relax for a bit. Once fulfilled return to the trail and head to the left because you have another 0.6 mile hike in front of you to get to the North Mountain summit. The hike turns up on the intensity with a stiff incline over rocks, boulders, fallen trees all the while your lungs are in huff and puff mode. Arrive at the top and note there are two outcrops to enjoy a perch view. The second perch has a small 10 foot rock climb to tackle but know the view is worth the trouble! The summit is not comfortable enough to sit and devour the view however it is perfect for photos and a snack. Ready to head back? Return the way you came, heading down North Mountain (mind your footing with all those rocks) , arrive in 0.6 at SaltPeter and continue to burn down the mountain hopping a few creek crossings until you reach the ShrineMont area. Retrace the remaining steps back to your vehicle.
 

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