Mid-Atlantic Hiking Group

Very Strenuous Hike: Robertson Mountain Plus Stony Man Mountain!

165

February 16 · 9:00 AM
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Very Strenuous 16 Mile Hike in SNP!

Robertson Mountain Plus Stony Man Mountain!

Are you ready to climb some serious elevation gain in a day hike? Well then, look no further because here it is!! And if you are up for it you can join us for a post hike meal too.

For those of you who want more butt kicker hikes, consider this challenge! In this circuit hike, we climb over Robertson Mountain and thenup to the summit of Stony Man Mountain. The summit of Robertson Mountain has excellent views of Old Rag, Corbin Hollow and Hawksbill Summit.

Very Strenuous Hike Pre-Approval Required:

Note that while this is a spectacular hike, it is very strenuous. This hike is much more challenging that Old Rag which many consider a strenuous hike. If have not earned the pre-approval "title" for our very strenuous hikes, you must contact the hike leader before signing up for this hike so you can make an informed decision together regarding this hike. It is dangerous to hike beyond your physical limitations. About 48 hours before the hike, I will check to see if anyone has signed up for this hike without contacting the leader and remove them for safety purposes. Thank you for your understanding and let's have a great time out there.

We have combined these two mountains to create a very strenuous circuit hike. This hike uses multiple trails and some fire road. Overlooking Old Rag Mountain, the Robertson Mountain hike has one of the steepest trails in the central section of the Shenandoah National Park, with an elevation gain of 1,700 feet in just over 1.5 miles. We will say this again, this is a very strenuous hike due to the amount of elevation gain AND elevation change over 16 miles. Also, our pace will average about 2.5 mph.

From Stony Man Overlook, you can see the profile of his face looking west. But you can climb to his forehead and look west with him! There is beauty all the way, in every season! The view on a clear day is unforgettable: the valley, the town of Luray, Massanutten Mountain, and far, far off -- the Alleghenies in West Virginia. The buildings of Skyland lie below to the left; Skyline Drive winds below to the right. If there are clouds, they throw shadows across the peaks and ridges. The panoramic views from Stony Man and Little Stony Man are outstanding. From 1845 to the turn of the century, a copper mine operated near the summit of Stony Man. The Passamaquoddy Trail was laid out by George Freeman Pollock, founder of Skyland, in 1932.

Stony Man is one of the prettiest mountains in the entire Shenandoah National Park. It is also the second highest mountain in the park, and the only other mountain that eclipses 4,000 feet where you will be standing on rocks which are part of an ancient lava flow later metamorphosed into greenstone. Once you reach the summit of Stony Man, you have great views to the west looking over the south fork of the Shenandoah River and beyond to the mountains in George Washington National Forest. The summit is free of trees and is pretty much a large rock outcropping with cliffs of 200' or more on the western ledge.

From Stony Man, we’ll continue north on the Appalachian trail and then return to the Old Rag parking via the 6-mile Nicholson Hollow trail.

I recommend 3 to 4 liters of water and plenty of snacks to sustain yourself and have enough caloric intake and energy for this hike. Also, we will have a briefing before the hike and go over the route with maps.

Post-Hike Meal

Our optional post-hike dinner will be at Thornton River Grille in Sperryville.

Trail Information

Nearby City: Sperryville

Length: 16 total miles

Pace: 2.5 mph average pace for this hike

Duration: About 7 to 8 hours

Trail Type: Circuit

Skill Level: Very strenuous due to overall length, technical features, and pace

Elevation Gain: 4000 ft

Special Winter Gear Requirement:

Traction gear is a must in order to hike in the winter with our group for safety and so we can hike all four seasons! The most dependable/reliable gear in our opinion is either Kahtoola Microspikes or STABILicers Originals (Stabilicer "Originals" and not the "lites" as too many "lites" have snapped while out on the trail) and YakTrax are highly discouraged. Traction gear/ice cleats come in handy for getting the mail or walking the dog, in addition to any other outdoor activity where there is ice involved! You can run on the ice with them on and many runners do just that!

Trail Notes for Leaders

Weather Information Rain, Snow, Ice, or Shine. Click here to see an up trail forecast.

Carpool Information

There are 2 carpools for this hike!

Baltimore Area Carpool

To carpool or caravan with the hike leader from the Baltimore metro area, meet at Savage Station. Click here for directions to Savage Station.

DC Area Carpool

To carpool or caravan from the metro DC area, meetup at the Centerville Park and Ride. Click here for information and directions to the Centerville location. If you can drive or want to carpool from additional locations, please post your location in the comment section below. For those who need a ride, reach out to the drivers. Make friends, and support the environment - by just offering a ride!

Directions to the Trailhead

Click here for directions to where we meet for this sick hike!

Meetup Time for Hike is 9:00 a.m.

Carpool time from Savage Station is 6:30 a.m.

Carpool time from Centerville Park and Ride is 7:30 a.m.

Park Entrance Fee
Many of our members have passes so please coordinate amongst yourselves to help cut expenses! The entry fee for Skyline Drive for all vehicles is $15 for a single car. Passes, which are valid for unlimited entries within a seven-day period, are issued. Payment may be made with cash, credit, or debit cards. If you plan visiting more than once it is well worth it to purchase a pass!

Fido is NOT Welcome on this Hike

Brian: [masked]

Shinyi: [masked]

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Brian Crowe

Thanks for a great hike everyone hopefully no one minded the extra trail I added, it paid off good view and A frozen waterfall. Anyone looking for pre approval for strenuous hike's email me and I will get it handled. Everyone did great look forward to seeing everyone hiking soon.

2 · February 18
- David Ludwig
  
  that was definitely a worthwhile diversion... what's another couple of miles ;)
  
  2 · February 19
Shinyi

Hello everyone, I tried to match the names that I remembered with our RSVP list, unfortunately I just couldn't come up with the magic number "20" attendees. If I marked you wrong, please message me so I can correct my mistake. Thanks for a fabulous hike today :)

1 · February 16
- Steve G.
  
  No no-shows? Awesome!
  
  1 · February 18
Steve G.

Thanks everybody for posting all the awesome pictures! I'm sorry I couldn't join you, but I am hiking vicariously thorough the photos :)

I bet my legs and feet hurt less than yours doing it that way :)

2 · February 18
Kellie Carlisle

Brian and Shinyi, thanks so much for leading this hike. Sounds like everyone had a great time. Brrr, the pics make it look very cold. Happy everyone made it off the mountain all safe and sound. Bet everyone slept like a baby after this hike.

2 · February 18
Whitney

Gorgeous hike, great group! Thanks, all!

4 · February 17
Sameer

Steepest climb and one of the best vistas

3 · February 17
Tom

Thanks guys. Great experience with breathtaking views

2 · February 17
David March

Thx. Shinyi and Marine Brian for leading yet another great hike. The winterscape was amazing. Next time, I hope to make the posthike fete.

2 · February 17
Rick

Great day. Thank you all!

2 · February 17
Selma Halman

Thank you, Brian and Shinyi for leading the group. It was a great hike with awesome views!

2 · February 16
Lyndal

Another great hike in the snow, Stony Man Mountain had the best views and the frozen waterfall was very cool to see! Thanx Brian and Shinyi for leading, was nice to all hike together instead of two groups:) Thanx Sameer for setting up the group pic!

2 · February 16
- Christine
  
  Damn, so sad I missed this. And I even bought traction gear! Oh well, next time. Glad y'all had a blast!
  
  0 · February 16
David Ludwig

A great hike. The climb up Robertson Mountain was a butt kicker as billed. Stoney Man climb was awesome with fabulous views. Thanks Brian and Shinyi for leading the hike. Now for a nice hot shower!

2 · February 16
Sara

Sorry I missed you!

0 · February 16
Sara

On my way to centreville. 5 min late. Pl wait

0 · February 16
Kent Morgan

Anyone coming from the Baltimore area?

0 · February 14
- View all 3 replies
- Jim S
  
  Just wondering the same thing. Wanna carpool? I am in the city. We can meet at savage station or somewhere mor convenient.
  
  0 · February 15
- Kent Morgan
  
  Savage Station works for me. See you then.
  
  0 · February 15
- Jim S
  
  Sorry, kent. Running really late. Will have to drive directly to Va. Apologize
  
  0 · February 16
Bill Peters

I am looking for a ride from the Alexandria area. If I can't do that, I will come to Centreville looking for a reide. Thanks

0 · February 12
- View all 3 replies
- Sameer
  
  Bill you can ride with me
  
  0 · February 15
- Bill Peters
  
  I will be at Centerville at 7:30
  
  0 · February 15
- Jin
  
  I'll be at Centreville P&R by 7:30, drive or ride.
  
  0 · February 15
Brian Crowe

70% chance of snow Friday night late to Saturday morning expecting 1-3" in SNP so PLEASE PACK TRACTION GEAR and appropriate clothing/ ample water. I have zero intentions of canceling but will turn away unprepared hikers!

3 · February 15
Salvatore

Looking for a ride from the DC area. Will chip in for gas.

0 · February 11
- View all 10 replies
- David March
  
  Grab a ride with me from Centreville. You can navigate! Ha, ha!
  
  0 · February 11
- L N
  
  David, do you have room in your car for another person? My car got rear ended by a land yacht a few days ago and is now undriveable... soo I'll need a ride from centreville :) will chip in for gas!
  
  0 · February 12
- Christine
  
  I'm planning to meet at ctrville and can drive folks as well. Also, if anyone is in / can get to the Takoma / Silver Spring area, I can take folks from there as well.
  
  0 · February 12
- Tom
  
  I'll be at centreville as well and can either dive or ride.
  
  0 · February 12
- Salvatore
  
  Hi David, OK I'll navigate. But I don't have a car this weekend, and need a ride to Centerville. Anyone going to Centerville from the DC metro area?
  
  0 · February 12
- Tom
  
  I meant drive not dive..I'm sure it will be too cold for diving.
  
  0 · February 12
- Whitney
  
  Hi David/Christine/Tom - I'd love to take one of you up on an offer to drive from Centreville P&R. Are you all planning to be there at 7:30?
  
  0 · February 13
- Christine
  
  Hey Whitney - I've been under the weather all week, so there's a chance I may bail, but if I do come I will definitely stop at Ctrville. There's usually a bunch of folks there, so I don't think you'll have trouble getting a ride! See you (hopefully) soon.
  
  0 · February 13
- Tom
  
  Hello Whitney - I'm still planning on attending and will stop at Centreville at 7:30 if I do go. Last week when we did Old Rag there were enough people at Centreville to fill two cars so as Christine said, you shouldn't have any trouble getting a ride even if I can't make it.
  
  0 · February 14
- Christine
  
  I can't shake this illness, so sad to report I'm gonna have to sit this one out. :( Have fun all!
  
  0 · February 14
Michael

This one looks like a lot of fun! Go Shinyi!

3 · January 23
- Melody
  
  Hi Mike!
  
  0 · February 14
- Michael
  
  Hi Mel! Have a great time on this hike. Long time, no see. :o(
  
  0 · February 14
Steve G.

This is going to be a fantastic hike! Wish I could join y'all, but I'll be back home meeting my nephew (it takes a lot to keep me from hiking with you).

Hope you all have a great time, and bring back some pictures for me!

3 · January 23
- Melody
  
  Steve, I know you cannot wait to see the lil man. Have a great time with your sister. -Melody
  
  1 · February 14
Tom

Brian and Shinyi,

I'm really excited to join you all on this hike. I hiked with Shinyi once about a year ago. Almost the same trails as this one. I would like to meet you at the trailhead. I may need to speed off to some dinner plans with my folks afterwards. I will be at the Old Rag parking lot by 9AM. See you there.

0 · February 14
Salvatore

Looking for a ride to Centerville from the DC metro area.

0 · February 14
da2010

Hi—I'll also be looking for a ride from Centreville.

0 · February 14
Sameer

I am driving from Alexandria VA

0 · February 13
Brian Crowe

Also due to the trails still being ice and some snow cover at higher elevations in SNP please make sure you pack traction gear otherwise we will have to turn you away, sorry but safety is priority. Please read the note about traction gear on this page. If you do not have it I would recommend micro spikes version over others.

1 · February 11
Shinyi

Just a final reminder, if you haven't earned a "Pre-approved' title underneath your name, and didn't contacted either me or Brian yet, I would automatically move you OUT of RSVP list 3 days before the actual hike. This is for everyone's safety and enjoyment to complete a very strenuous hike within limited daylight. Whitney and David, you both are on board with us!

0 · February 10
Selma Halman

Hi! I am a looking for a ride from Centerville P&R. I will chip in for gas. Thanks!

0 · February 7
- View all 4 replies
- David March
  
  I'll give you a ride, per usual. No worries.
  
  1 · February 7
- Selma Halman
  
  Thank you, David :) You're so sweet!
  
  0 · February 8
- kimmie
  
  David , do you have a room for one more? I will chip for gas, also I can meet you at Centreville P&R .
  
  0 · February 8
- David March
  
  Of course. We can sort it out at Centreville. Some people may want to do an after-hike meal, others may want to rush back.
  
  0 · February 9
Melody

Ed Thompson pre approved for strenuous hikes joining

1 · February 3
- Shinyi
  
  Thanks for letting me know, I still remembered you both at Tri-State hike. You two are all set :)
  
  0 · February 7
David Ludwig

I'm signed up for this hike but need a confirmation from the hike leader. Anyone coming from Southern Md, let me know if you want to carpool.

0 · February 6
- View all 3 replies
- Brian Crowe
  
  what is your recent hiking experience?(distance and difficulty) Thanks David.
  
  0 · February 6
- David Ludwig
  
  Brian, I sent you an email with my hiking experience. I had thought I sent the info to Shinyi a few days ago, but apparently failed to hit the send button as I don't have any record of it. Let me know if you don't get my email. Dave
  
  0 · February 7
- Shinyi
  
  Please send to either one of us again, thanks!
  
  0 · February 7
Augusta

would someone be able to give me a ride from the DC area? of course, I'd love to help with gas and buy you a cup of coffee for the favor

0 · January 23
- View all 4 replies
- Daniel Corini
  
  I will be driving from NW DC and would be more than happy to give you a ride. My only issue is there is a slight possibility a work trip im leaving for on the 17th gets moved to the 15th.
  
  0 · January 23
- Augusta
  
  is there any update on your work trip? i might have another friend who would like to go as well, also from NW DC. again, we'd love to compensate you with treats and money!
  
  0 · January 28
- Daniel Corini
  
  Unfortunately not yet. My employer is purchasing the tickets and is being a little slow on locking down the exact date of travel. I wont know till 10days prior its looking like. So tentatively yes on the carpool for both of you and I'll update you when I find out around the 6th. Sorry for the limbo
  
  0 · January 28
- Daniel Corini
  
  Unfortunately the work trip got moved to the 15th so I will have to back out of this one. Hopefully carpool works out and enjoy the hike everyone.
  
  0 · February 7
Sarita K

I meant to say PLEASE approve me. Thank you for your consideration.

2 · January 30
- View all 4 replies
- Shinyi
  
  If you never did a very strenuous hike with us and earned the pre-approved title. Please email either one of us (me or Brian) your recent hiking experience. I need whatever the hikes you have done (where, when, distance, elevation gain... etc) for the past 3 month to assess your ability. This applies ANYONE WHO DOES NOT HAVE THE TITLE YET. Your cooperation is much appreciated.
  
  0 · January 30
- Steve G.
  
  I can vouch for Sarita.
  
  2 · February 4
- Sarita K
  
  Thanks Steve! I knew I could count on you! :)
  
  1 · February 4
- Brian Crowe
  
  your approved just in case you didnt see the post on your page
  
  1 · February 6
Miguel

How do you get pre-approved for very strenuous hikes? Do we have to do lots of strenuous hikes first?

0 · January 29
- Shinyi
  
  In order to get pre-approved, you must have hiked with us and finished a VERY strenuous hike (this one for example). And then the hike leader would grant you the title which allows you to sign up without restriction next time.
  
  0 · January 30
Sarita K

I am pretty sure I can do this hike. If there will be snow and ice on the ground, it may be more challenging. Approve me! I need a challenging hike. I am always out in the front. :O ) I need a challenge, Lol

0 · January 30
Bill Peters

I see the net elevation gain is 4000 feet. Does anyone know the mileage? This should be an amazing hike

0 · January 22
- View all 3 replies
- Christine
  
  It says above that the circuit is 16 miles - that's what I remember too.
  
  0 · January 22
- Selma Halman
  
  As far as I know, the total mileage is close to 7 miles for Mt. Robertson.
  
  0 · January 22
- Bill Peters
  
  Thanks Christine
  
  0 · January 22
Bill Peters

The east face of Robertson is definitely a good, steep climb. It's a few feet taller than its cousin, Old Rag.

0 · January 22
Christine

I've done this hike with Kenny - the Robertson part is a serious climb! Looking forward to a great glute workout. :)

0 · January 22

19 attended

Shinyi

Certified Hike Leader and Wilderness Medical First Responder

Event Host
Brian Crowe

Certified Hike Leader

Event Host
da2010

Pre-Approved for Very Strenuous Hikes!
Kent Morgan

Pre-Approved for Very Strenuous Hikes!
Whitney

Pre-Approved for Very Strenuous Hikes!
Brian T

Pre-Approved for Very Strenuous Hikes!
Chris Taylor

Pre-Approved for Very Strenuous Hikes! 01/14/13
Selma Halman

Pre-Approved for Very Strenuous Hikes! 01/20/2013
Salvatore

Pre-Approved for Very Strenuous Hikes! 01/20/2013
L N

Preapproved for Very Strenuous Hikes!
Tom

Pre-Approved for Very Strenuous Hikes!
Jim S

Pre-Approved for Very Strenuous Hikes!
Sameer

Pre-Approved for Very Strenuous Hikes!
Tom

Pre-Approved for Very Strenuous Hikes!
David March

Pre-Approved for Very Strenuous Hikes! 01/20/2013
Rick

Pre-Approved for Very Strenuous Hikes! 01/20/2013
Jin

Pre-Approved for Very Strenuous Hikes!
Lyndal

Pre-Approved for Very Strenuous Hikes!
David Ludwig

Pre-Approved for Very Strenuous Hikes! 02/17/2013

Your organizer's refund policy for Very Strenuous Hike: Robertson Mountain Plus Stony Man Mountain!

Refunds offered if:

the Meetup is cancelled
the Meetup is rescheduled
you can cancel at least 2 day(s) before the Meetup

Additional notes: 100% Refund with no questions asked if your RSVP is changed to a "NO" prior to 48 hour before hike time!

Payments you make go to the organizer, not to Meetup. You must make refund requests to the organizer.

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Founded Jul 21, 2007

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We are a laid back group of diverse people who enjoy hiking with others while exploring trails in Maryland, DC, Virginia, Pennsylvania, and Delaware. A sense of humor is a must and we are very much a social hiking group. Our group focuses on camaraderie, safety while having good times out on the trail, and leading an active lifestyle. We enjoy Mother Nature's diversity as well as our own, so get your rear in gear and come on out and join us for a hike!

Why We Hike - To have good times, make friends, and maybe even meet that special someone along the trail while enjoying the benefits of the great outdoors. Whether you want to lose weight, have never hiked a mile in your life, or have a goal to rise up to the challenge of ultra hiking 30 miles in one day, we have a hike for you. Remember, we were all newbies once and we enjoy introducing others to hiking. It is a great way to relieve stress while getting great exercise and enjoying the variety of what Mother Nature has to offer.

When We Hike - In the mornings, afternoons, evenings, darkest of nights, every weekend, all year round. We average 10 hikes a week. Seasonal, after work hikes are offered in many areas throughout our region as well.

Where We Hike - Anywhere within the Mid-Atlantic region. We also have special trips to places farther away. Hikes range from very easy sneaker hikes on paved paths along gentle streams and clear lakes, to very strenuous, steep climbs and rock scrambles to mountain summits. We visit Shenandoah National Park, George Washington National Forest, and the Appalachian Trail almost every weekend. We strive to offer at least one easy, moderate, and strenuous hike within 60 miles of Baltimore, DC, and Northern Virginia each weekend. Additionally, we have cookouts, white water floats, hike out/paddle backs, cave trips, natural water slides hikes, Appalachian Trail section hikes, camping trips, volunteer offerings, and last but certainly not least, our very popular Monuments in the Moonlight hikes that have been featured in the Washington Post.

How We Hike - With safety and camaraderie! We will NOT leave anyone behind and we strive for a 1:15 volunteer hike leader to member ratio. Hiking in large groups is not fun for you or anyone else on the trail, including our own volunteer leadership team. Hikes with a large number of people signed up typically have more than one leader to maintain our goal ratio. This also allows us to offer various pace options so you can hike at the right pace for you. We have pledged to practice Leave No Trace outdoor ethics and we do. We also offer many volunteer and trail maintenance opportunities in addition to community building events, so come on out and make a difference in our parks!

Who Should Join - Simply put, you! Whether you are young, old, working, retired, laid off, shy, talkative, energetic, geeky, lazy (but hopefully you don't want to be or we just might have a problem with this one-grin), recovering from an injury, social, or a competitive speed hiker, this is a group for you. We love our diversity and thrive on it!

WARNING - Our calendar is very active ALL FOUR SEASONS and may become addictive and beneficial to your health!

To keep up with our very active schedule, you can follow our activities via Twitter and socialize with your fellow hikers on Facebook.

I hope to see you on the trail soon and let's have good times!

Kellie and the Entire Mid-Atlantic Hiking Group Volunteer Leadership Team