Furnace Mountain - Panoramic Viewpoint - 4.5 Miles - Moderate

Just below the summit of Furnace Mountain - located in the Southern District of Shenandoah National Park - is a rock-outcropping with a panoramic view of the Madison Run drainage area and all of its surrounding mountains. This will be the mid-way point of our out and back hike - covering a total distance of 4.5 miles.

Starting from the Madison Run Fire Road, we will traverse a short distance of this path. Turning right, we will cross over Madison Run - which has numerous large rocks to accommodate the crossing of this stream. Btw, at this time of the year, the water height and flow is typically very low and shallow. We will then begin to traverse and ascend the Furnace Mountain Trail for the next 1.5 miles until we reach the side trail that will take us up and over the summit of Furnace Mountain. We can then perch ourselves upon the rock-outcropping and linger for a bit in order to take in the beautiful panoramic views.

We will then retrace our steps back to the starting point of our hike along the Madison Run Fire Road.

PLEASE NOTE: Due to limited parking space at the trailhead along the Madison Run Fire Road, we will initially plan to meet up in the parking lot in front of the Food Lion in Grottoes, VA. We will carpool the short distance from this location to the trailhead.

What To Bring:

--it is recommended wearing moisture wicking clothing
--dress in layers - you will most likely be shedding a layer during our ascent to the summit of Furnace Mountain - but will then add a layer back as we linger at the rock-outcropping
--bring 1 to 2 liters of water or an electro-lyte drink
--bring snack food and/or lunch items

After the hike, for those that are interested, we can head to Elkton Brewing for an opportunity to socialize and - if you want to - a post-hike beverage.

Hope you will be able to attend this scenic hike on what should be a wonderful blue sky, sunny day.