Retrace Hike To Spectacular And Remote Rock-Outcropping - 8.5 Miles - Mod Stren

Bear Church Rock, offering exceptional views to the North & East, will be the highlight of this 8.5 mile out-and-back hike within the Central District of the Shenandoah National Park (SNP). Starting from the Staunton River Trail, at the confluence of the Staunton River and Rapidan River, we will begin our 1,800 foot ascent to Bear Church Rock. The first three quarters of our ascent will be gradual as we traverse the Staunton River Trail paralleling the Staunton River. While rising in elevation, we will also be shaded from direct sunlight as we move our way through the canopy of a diverse hardwood forest. There will also be evidence of a massive flood that roared through this area - which will be depicted by large boulders scattered along the Staunton River and hillsides that were gutted by the huge water flow.

Bear Church Rock, situated on Jones Mountain, is a big rock-outcropping that juts out and provides a spectacular view over a relatively remote area of the SNP. Old Rag Mountain, one of the most popular rock scrambling areas in the SNP, is clearly visible as one looks to the East from Bear Church Rock. With the refreshing cool mountain air, Bear Church Rock is also an idyllic spot for having lunch and taking picturesque panoramic pictures.

Along with the Staunton River Trail, we will also hike along the McDaniel Hollow Trail and a segment of the Jones Mountain Trail. For those of you who like utilizing maps, the region we will be hiking can be found on Map 10 of the Potomac Appalachian Trail Club series that encompasses the Central District of the SNP.

As a footnote, the timing of this hike may also coincide with the migration of monarch butterflies as they pass through this region of Virginia on their eventual flight path and final destination in Central Mexico.

What to bring:

Supplies: please bring plenty of water and wear broken-in hiking boots/shoes. We will be taking a nice, well deserved break for lunch at the mid-way point of our hike - so bring lunch and snacks!!

Important to know:

Drive time from Charlottesville to the trailhead is approximately 45 minutes.

Fees & Such:

Of course for the carpool to work, some have to offer to drive so others can ride. Riders, please give your driver $5.00 to cover their expenses.

And for those who are interested, there will be an opportunity to stop at a nearby brewery for a post-hike refreshment and a food truck.

Hope you will be able to join the group for this hike on what is forecast to be a beautiful, early fall weather day.