Hike Signal Knob (10.4 miles, 2,221' gain)

DESCRIPTION:

### Deep in the George Washington National Forest, this rugged mountain trek rewards groups with rich Civil War history and a sweeping view of the northern Shenandoah Valley. Used as a lookout by both Union and Confederate troops, it’s a true test of endurance.

### Phase 1: The Rocky Mountain Ascent

Starting from the Fort Valley Road parking lot, the orange-blazed Massanutten Trail sets a persistent, upward tone. The group will spend the first four miles steadily climbing through a dense forest of oak and mountain laurel.

• The Vibe: Determined and cautious. The defining feature of this trail is the rock—lots of loose, jagged, "pointy" sandstone. Your group will need to maintain a single-file line and stay focused on foot placement to protect ankles, calling out loose steps to those behind them.

### Phase 2: High Signals at the Knob

After passing a few partial vistas like the Buzzard Rock Overlook, the trail levels out onto a high ridge crest before reaching the famous Signal Knob Overlook at mile 4.6.

> The View: A massive sandstone ledge reveals an unobstructed panoramic view of the Shenandoah River winding past the town of Strasburg, backdropped by the distant Great North Mountain range.

The expansive rocks provide the perfect natural amphitheater for a larger group to spread out, devour lunch, and soak in the same vantage point soldiers used over 160 years ago.

### Phase 3: The Tuscarora "Gut Check"

Leaving the peak via a gravel service road (Massanutten Trail), the group drops into a quiet valley before hitting the blue-blazed Tuscarora Bear Wallow Trail.

• The Vibe: Exhausted but unified. This section brings a grueling, half-mile "gut check" climb that gains 400+ feet when legs are already tired. Reaching the final ridge crest is a massive shared triumph.

From there, the trail softens into a long, gradual four-mile descent, allowing the group to relax, walk side-by-side again, and swap stories all the way back to the cars.

ALLTRAILS MAP: https://www.alltrails.com/explore/trail/us/virginia/signal-knob-loop-trail?u=i&sh=y1w9cy

BRING: Good Hiking Boots or Trail Shoes, trekking poles if you have them, plenty of water, snacks, and a lunch.

PARKING/CARPOOLING/CARAVANING: Gather at the Bear Wallow-Signal Knob Parking Lot at 9:45 AM (Fort Valley Road (Rt. 678, 38.9342, -78.3201). Here is the link to coordinates from Google Maps: 38.9348, -78.3200

I encourage carpooling wherever possible. If you need a ride or want a ride, look at the list of attendees and where they live (it says in their profile). Then, for those who live near you, hit the "Chat" button to ask if they want or can offer a ride. Be sure you coordinate at least the day before with who you are riding with to ensure you are in sync. If you are a rider, please chip in towards gas (usually $5 - $20 depending on distance and # of riders). Additionally, you can post a request to give or receive a ride in the chat section of the event.

POST EVENT DINNER, DRINKS, & SOCIALIZATION:
We will stop to get dinner & drinks afterward at a place to be determined. Make sure whoever you ride with has the same plans as you so you can eat afterward if you want.

EXPECTATIONS: Download the trail map onto your phone before you arrive. Bring plenty of drinking water and a lunch/snacks. Know your physical limits and cardiovascular fitness. Bring proper clothing and gear for the weather. If you have any concerns or questions, don't hesitate to contact the hike leader via the chat feature or direct messaging.

RELEASE OF LIABILITY & ASSUMPTION OF RISK AGREEMENT: By attending this hike, I acknowledge that hiking in nature carries the risk of potential harm to myself up to and including the risk of injuries such as broken bones or muscle/tendon injuries, illness, disability, or death. These can be caused by slipping or falling off rocks due to loss of balance or lack of coordination; twisting ankles on rocks, brush, limbs, or ice; Acts of nature such as rock falls, inclement weather, lightning, strong wind, extreme temperatures; drownings in rivers, streams, or other bodies of water; drinking unfiltered contaminated water or becoming dehydrated; succumbing to heat exhaustion; getting bit or stung by venomous reptiles, animals, or insects; and my own or other’s negligent or risky behaviors. This list is not exhaustive nor is it inclusive of all risks. In response, I release and hold harmless with respect to all injury, disability, death, or loss of property, whether caused by negligence or otherwise, the “Active Adventurers” and "Harrisonburg Hiking Adventures" meetup group’s leadership as well as the designated hike leaders for this hike.

SICKNESS (COVID/FLU/COLD): As always, if you have been exposed to a contagious illness, or are having any symptoms at all, please do not attend. There will be plenty of future events.

DOGS: Don't bring dogs without checking with the hike leader first. Some hikes are fine for dogs, and some are too difficult. Also, some trails forbid dogs. Just message the hike leader to ask first.