​LOCATION: Fort Valley, VA
TRAIL DISTANCE: 9.6 Miles
TRAIL HEAD / DIRECTIONS:  fort valley rd 
TRAIL TYPE: loop
TRAIL GRADE:   Difficult (3)
TRAIL PARKING:40 spaces
KEY WORDS: ages 7+ , Summit view
TRAIL INFO
​What's to like about the trail: well managed, marked and maintained, a good cardio treat with multiple perch views along this ramble near front royal
Why go for a hike on this trail:​ A perfect day hike with complimentary distance, lung burning elevation gain across rocky single-track terrain leading out to a beautiful summit vista view of Strasburg, Virginia.
Best time to go for a hike on this trail:   All four seasons

SUMMARY  
From the route 678 designated parking lot, use the back right trailhead to begin your adventure . The trail hits the ascent button and gradually climbs through lush forest with creek views into a rocky single-track sidewinding the mountain scape to the first perch view (Richardson knob). From Richardson knob continue for 3.5 miles to signal knob. The trail continues with pockets of rocky terrain, mixed with compacted dirt and leaf material. There are limited views during the foliage seasons but it also serves a purpose of protecting you from the elements. The trail will gain in elevation (over 1000ft)  along the way passing the intersection for Meneaka peak continuing to a ridgeline ramble to the Signal Knob overlook. The overlook is just beyond the outpost station and is found adjacent to the fire road. The summit view showcases the town of Strasburg, Virginia and the Shenandoah river weaving between the Massanutten range and the North Mountain range.  The second half of the hiking summary carries a choose your own adventure.
 
option 1: retrace your steps back down to your car. it’s a 5 mile return to your car. 

OR

option 2: retrace your steps to the intersection of Meneka peak and hang a right and ride the trail for 0.6 miles across small rocks and a minimal ascent to the Meneaka Peak overlook. From here continue 0.4 miles to the blue blazed Tuscarora trail and turn left. The trail dips quickly through forested and stream areas for 2.9 miles. This section of the hike is light on physicality and high on relaxing stroll. As you near the bottom, make sure to ignore off shoot trails to your right (some even say signal knob parking) but continue on the blue blaze for 1.0 miles until you reach the parking lot.  

HIKE ON!
GEAR RECOMMENDATIONS
  • 2 water bottle
  • ​Lunch or trails bars and Light Snacks
  • hiking shoes OR hiking boots
  • bug spray (summer)
  • Sunscreen

LOCAL
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