We may choose to do one or more longer likes or a series of several shorter hikes (driving between trailheads as required).

Length 1.0 mi

Elevation gain 242 ft

Bearfence Mountain is a short hike leading to one of the few summits in Shenandoah with 360-degree views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. While the overall distance may not be very long, you'll encounter a few rocky scrambles near the top, as well as a stretch of trail alongside a cliff. On the way back down, there's another nice viewpoint as you return by way of the Appalachian Trail. This fun and adventurous hike is easily accessible from Skyline Drive. While dogs are allowed on many trails in the park, you'll have to leave them at home for this one!

Length 2.7 mi

Elevation gain 744 ft

This route leads to the top of Hawksbill Mountain, the highest point in Shenandoah. You'll have great views along the way and pass by Byrd's Nest Shelter #2. This wooden day-use shelter was built in the 1960s and is a good place to stop for lunch. This is one of the most popular hikes in the national park — we recommend getting an early start. The top of the mountain is a large rocky area, so there's usually space for hikers to rest and enjoy the view before heading back down, even on busy days.

Length 1.6 mi

Elevation gain 583 ft

With its short distance leading to a series of cascades, Dark Hollow Falls is one of the most popular waterfall routes in the park. The trail has a dedicated parking area off Skyline Drive and follows Hog Camp Branch to Dark Hollow Falls. The trail is shaded in the summer months, offering some relief during the hottest parts of the year. There's a viewing platform to get the best views of the falls, and you can also continue down the trail to reach some smaller waterfalls. Dogs are not permitted on this trail.

Difficulty Moderate

Length 1.5 mi

Elevation gain 321 ft

Stony Man is the second tallest peak in Shenandoah National Park. This is another trail that's perfect for beginner hikers and kids. From the top, there are sweeping views of the park, surrounding valleys and towns, Massanutten Mountain, and the Allegheny Mountains further in the distance. A large parking area accesses the Appalachian Trail, which connects to Stony Man Trail, eventually leading to the summit. This is also a great spot to watch the sunset over the mountains.

Length 8.5 mi

Elevation gain 2,306 ft

If you're looking for waterfalls and a place to cool off in the summer, this is the trail for you. While this loop can be challenging due to the distance and some steep sections, there are several spots to stop and jump in the creek along the way. The most notable waterfall along the trail is the 86-foot-tall Upper Whiteoak Falls. There are several creek crossings along the route, so be prepared to get your feet wet! Look for diverse wildlife and wildflowers along this trail, like mountain laurel, woodland sunflower, trillium, black bears, and white-tailed deer.

Length 3.9 mi

Elevation gain 892 ft

This loop is one of the most popular hikes in the park. Hikers are treated to the sound of a rushing mountain stream most of the way. The trail leaves from Fishers Gap Overlook and crosses Skyline Drive, then heads downhill to the Rose River. In addition to passing Rose River Falls, the trail passes by many smaller cascades too. There are several deep pools to stop and swim in during the summer months. The Rose River Fire Road climbs back up toward Skyline Drive, passing an old cemetery along the way.

Length 3.4 mi

Elevation gain 1,210 ft

Mary's Rock is easily accessible from U.S. 211 and Skyline Drive. The trail leads to a viewpoint with a beautiful view of Massanutten Mountain and the surrounding Shenandoah Valley. A steady climb up the Appalachian Trail leads to the overlook at Mary's Rock. There are many stories surrounding how the mountain got its name, but no one knows for sure! In late spring, the trail is surrounded by blooming mountain laurel. Wildlife such as deer and bears are often spotted in the area, along with the occasional rattlesnake.

Length 9.4 mi

Elevation gain 2,604 ft

Old Rag is the most coveted summit in Shenandoah. Hikers are rewarded with stunning 360-degree views after scrambling to the rocky top. Before reaching the summit, there are several switchbacks and false summits — you'll know you've reached the top when you see a sign pointing toward the peak! On the way down, you'll pass Byrd's Nest Shelter and Old Rag Shelter. These are great places to stop and rest before finishing your hike. You need to purchase a day-use ticket in advance if you plan to hike Old Rag from March through November.

Elevation 2218

This hike would start from our campground (big meadows) and follow portions of the AT and some side spurs to visit Hawksbill (highest peak in park) and end at Stonyman. this would be a one way hike with vehicle(s) staged at the end.

Friday - leave 4:00 PM.

Monday - return anytime but prefer not to arrive back too late.

• if Saturday is a morning hike and then an afternoon hike, he could join everyone at base camp in between the two hikes or at the start of the afternoon hike trailhead

• If Saturday is an all day long hike he could join everyone at base camp in the evening

Eat before you arrive. Preferably not entire Chicken Ceasar Salad.

Lunch:

Pack your own lunch/car snacks or bring money to purchase food in the park. We are stopping at the Byrd visitor center/Big Meadows Wayside (gas station grill) for lunch and restrooms.

Dinner:

• Ramen Noodles

• Mashed Potatoes

• Bacon bits

• Canned chicken

• Gold fish crackers

• Cookie

• Hard-boiled eggs

• oatmeal

• Raisins

Lunch:

• Turkey meat sticks

• String cheese

• Chocolate chip granola bar

• Trail mix

• Peanut butter on cheese crackers

• Electrolyte Packet

Dinner:

• Rotini pasta with beef meat sauce

• Cheese-its

https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1J-EqhyYyf0KyFqfSVC0nQU2Y3nZ06Y3gE-bcvX1rIdQ/edit?usp=sharing

• Cereal bars

• Poptarts

• Fruit snacks

Lunch:

• Chocolate chip granola bars

• Cheese on cheese crackers

• Peanut butter

• Tortillas

• Tuna/Chicken

• Electrolyte drink mix

My recommendation is to hike at least 8 miles with fully loaded packs (including distributed crew gear). We can do this as one longer hike (e.g. hike to the several summits along AT from our camp) or as several smaller hikes.

https://g.co/kgs/VPFsp31

• Hike Old Rag (with day packs)

  
  

• Drive home