Patterson Ridge, Big Run and Appalachian Trail ~ 11.5 miles/~2500 ft elev gain

Located in the South District of Shenandoah National Park, this hike features a walk along and across Big Run and nice views.

Note: Multiple water crossings. Be prepared.
Parking: Loft Mountain Wayside
Hike: https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/patterson-ridge-big-run-at-4e0928d?u=i&sh=jbc54i

Hike Details - We will start from the Loft Mountain Wayside and walk along Skyline Dr a short distance to the Patterson Ridge trailhead. We will descend on the Patterson Ridge Trail into the Big Run Drainage Area. Here there will be views of the Massanutten Ridge and Shenandoah Valley as we descend. At the intersection, we will turn left on the Big Run Portal Trail, where there will be multiple crossings of Big Run before arriving at the junction with the Big Run Loop Trail. We will turn left at the junction and start the steady climb up to Skyline Drive. We will cross Skyline Drive to the Doyles River Falls Parking Area and the Appalachian Trail. We will turn left onto the Appalachian Trail and make our way around the Loft Mountain Campground. There will be multiple vista points on this stretch of Appalachian Trail culminating with a final short ascent to the expansive views from the Frazier Discovery Trail. We will descend via the Frazier Discovery Trail back to the cars at the Loft Mountain Wayside.

Recommended items to bring- Broken in Hiking Boots, Trekking Poles, Lunch/Snacks, Water, First Aid Kit, Good Day Pack, Water shoes/over boots, Layers for cold weather
Disclaimer: GetHiking Organizers are not professional guides. Expect the same risks and take the same precautions you would if you were hiking alone. You are solely responsible for your own safety and well-being. With your RSVP you agree to participate at your own risk and are solely responsible for any damage to your property and/or any injury to yourself or your guest. When joining GetHiking you affirm that you knowingly and voluntarily agree not to bring any type of claim arising out of/or related to this event against the organizers of this group.
Weather: If inclement weather necessitates canceling or postponing the hike, the decision will be made no later than 7:00AM - cancellations will be posted on the hike comments section. Steady rain with not much chance of clearing and/or dangerous conditions will call for postponing the hike.
RSVP: If you find that you are NOT going to be able to attend the hike, please update your RSVP to “No” as soon as possible. This allows those on the waitlist to have the opportunity to attend.