Hike Mary's Rock via Buck Ridge Trail (8.9 miles, 2,582' gain)

DESCRIPTION:
Many hikers consider this hike to be another of the greatest hikes in the area. It starts off going up this steep ridgeline along Buck Hollow Trail and then crosses Skyline Drive and up to Mary's Rock.. If you've never done it before, you should definitely sign up and join us. Here is a writeup from the HikingUpward site: https://gohikevirginia.com/hiking-marys-rock/

ALLTRAILS MAP: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/virginia/buck-ridge-trail-to-marys-rock-loop?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 Buck Hollow Trailhead Parking at 9:45 AM. Here is the directions link from Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/je2azqCi4iJ5T3Zw8

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” 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. They can't handle the many steep steps.