Hike Appalachian Trail: Pua Falls to Bear's Den (12.1 miles, 3,737' gain)

This scenic out-and-back trek on the Virginia section of the Appalachian Trail cuts right into the infamous "Roller Coaster." It treats groups to a mix of thick hardwood forests, a hidden mountain cascade, and a classic stone-ledge lunch spot at the halfway mark.

### Phase 1: Rolling Out from Morgan Mill Road

The hike starts under the power lines at the gravel parking lot on Morgan Mill Road (Route 605). Heading north, the white-blazed trail immediately drops the group into a deep, quiet mountain hollow.

• The Vibe: Conversational and fresh. Your group will cross a wooden footbridge over Morgan Mill Stream before tackling a series of short, punchy climbs and descents. The trail is well-canopied, allowing everyone to warm up their legs and chat easily in pairs.

### Phase 2: The Side-Quest to Pua Falls

A little over a mile into the hike, the trail descends toward another bubbling mountain creek. Just off the main path via a brief side trail, the group will discover Pua Falls cascading over the mossy rocks.

> The Break Spot: While it is a modest mountain waterfall, the shaded pool and rushing water create a perfect natural air conditioner. This is the designated spot for the group to drop their packs, take a quick break, and filter clean mountain water before the big climb ahead.

### Phase 3: The Ascent to Bear's Den Overlook

Leaving the falls, the trail serves up the true character of this section: short, steep, and rocky "pointless ups and downs." The final push to the turnaround point is a half-mile grind up a steep, rocky incline. The trail crests the ridge, leading straight to the massive quartzite outcroppings of Bear's Den Overlook.

> The Lunch Spot: You are standing on a sheer stone ledge looking straight west across the vast, rolling patchwork of the Shenandoah Valley. The expansive rocks provide the perfect natural benches for the group to unpack sandwiches, rest tired legs, and enjoy a long, relaxing lunch with a massive view.

### Phase 4: The Direct Return Leg

After packing up your trash and taking a group photo on the ledge, you'll turn around and head south back towards the cars.

• The Vibe: Steady and efficient. Because you skipped the hostel and won't be stopping to visit Pua Falls again on the return leg, the group can maintain a consistent, focused pace. Navigating the rocky "Roller Coaster" bumps in reverse provides one final, excellent workout before a gentle descent brings everyone back to Morgan Mill Road.

ALLTRAILS MAP: https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/custom-route-7b3578c?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 gravel parking lot on Route 605 (Morgan's Mill Road, Mount Weather, VA 20135) at 9:45 AM. Here is the link to coordinates from Google Maps: 339W+QX, Mount Weather, VA 20135

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.