LOCATION: Bluemont, VA
TRAIL DISTANCE: 6.6 Miles
TRAIL HEAD/ DIRECTIONS : Bears Den
TRAIL TYPE:  Loop
TRAIL GRADE:  Strenuous (4)
TRAIL PARKING: 25 Spots or less
KEY WORDS: Appalachian Trail, Summit View

More Northern VA hikes

TRAIL INFO
What’s to like about the trail:  secluded with a dose of solitude and attitude
Why go for a hike on this trail: welcome to the Appalachian Trail rollercoaster, its where ups and downs unite amongst the trees for thigh burner.
Best time to go for a hike on this trail:  Spring & Fall

Summary:  
Your adventure begins at the Bears Den Nature Area parking lot. There is a $3.00 day use parking fee ( you can use Venmo to pay my digital friends). From the parking area, head up the gravel driveway for 100 yards in the direction of Bears Den Lodge. Look for a left onto the Blue Blaze trail (also note signs for Bears Den Overlook and the Appalachian Trail). Follow the Blue Blaze trail for 0.2 miles until Bears Den Overlook. Hard to believe but this summit view rich with birds perch views of the western piedmont of Virginia.  Note: This perch view is amazing for sunsets!  Enjoy your view and the head left onto the Appalachian Trail (AT) which will have a white blaze for the entirety. From here, its 3.0 miles of lush forest, a few creek crossings and an adventure on the AT's version of a rollercoaster. Now lets talk about this rollercoaster and set expectations. First, it is its namesake, a myriad of ups and downs drawn across rocks, roots, compacted dirt and within the domain of towering trees. However, here is some additional math to add into your expectations. At one point, you will ascend 530 ft. vertical feet (strenuous stuff). This may not be much to you or it may be too much to you because it is a stiff ascent with barely a pause of a switchback to save off your tired legs.  What makes the rollercoaster difficult? is simply the continuous push of up and down, rinse and repeat. The down being just as tricky with its fair share of trip inducing obstacles. At mile three, look for a small sign indicating Sam Moore Shelter (and trail) is to your left. Head 100 yards and enter the shelter area, good with campsites, creek access and picnic tables. Truly, a great spot for a lunch and rest bit. Remember the rollercoaster goes both ways, which means your way back is just as strenuous. About that way back, retrace your steps and be sure to lot 3 to 3.5 hours to complete this 6.6 mile journey. 

HIKE ON!

GEAR RECOMMENDATIONS
2 water bottle
Hiking Shoes or Hiking Boots
Lunch and Heavy on the trail snack

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