Staunton River Trail to Bear Church Overlook. 8 HARD miles. 2,100 ft of gain

Thanks to our fellow hiker, deKoven, Steve and I discovered this trail. The fall colors won’t be as bright in November, but the hike is still a beauty and one heck of a workout. We will begin from the Graves Mill Parking Area which is on the Shenandoah National Park boundary. We’ll follow the Graves Mill Trail to the Staunton River Trail. This follows along the river and meets the Jones Mountain Trail, where we’ll head up to Bear Church Rock Overlook. We will stop at the Overlook for lunch.

Here is the All Trails description which notes it is 2,168 feet of elevation gain and 8 miles. https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/virginia/staunton-river-trail-to-bear-church-rock This is a strenuous hike; the last mile has 1,000 feet of gain. We took our time on that stretch and ate lunch at the Overlook. It took us 5 hours.

All Trails took us right to the trailhead. The parking lot is small so carpooling would be wise; especially since it is a Saturday.

Notes:

• You don't need a Park pass for this parking lot.
• I have no cell service at the trailhead.
• Pack lunch.
• I am always bossy about water.
• Leashed dogs welcome.
• I don't hike in the rain and will cancel if the weather is nasty.
• If you can no longer attend, please change your RSVP.

Disclaimer: GetHiking Charlottesville's Organizers are not professional guides. Expect the same risks and take the same precautions you would take if you were hiking alone. With your RSVP you agree with this disclaimer.