St. Mary's Wilderness Circuit Hike- 10.5 Miles-2,100' Elev Gain
Details
Starting & Ending Point - Fork Mountain Overlook (Milepost 23.0)
Distance/Elev Gain/Rating - 10.5 Miles/2,100'/Mod Strenuous
Hike Map - Both the plan view and section view is posted in the pictures.
Hike Preview Video - Saint Mary's Wilderness Loop Trail, Virginia - 147 Reviews, Map _ AllTrails - Google Chrome 2026-03-22 17-12-48.mp4
Meeting Times - 8:30 am for carpooling from Pro Re Nata. 9:20 am for meeting at the trailhead.
Hike Details - This is a circuit hike from the Fork Mountain Overlook off of the Blue Ridge Parkway. The first 1.3 miles is a downhill first on the Mine Bank Creek Trail and a right on the Bald Mtn Overlook Trail. After an uphill of 1.3 miles we'll join the Bald Mountain Forest Road. We'll past the summit of Flint Mtn and after 3.0 miles we'll turn left on St. Mary's Trail. After 2.9 miles generally downhill we'll turn left on Mine Bank Creek Trail and have a steady uphill for the final 2.0 miles back to the parking area.
Conditions - This is going to be a spring hike with an elevation gain of 2,100'. Temps can vary greatly this time of year but heat could play a major factor in the level of exertion. Monitor the weather and properly dress for the weather conditions. Suggest layers of clothing and proper gear for variable weather conditions including a rain shower.
Suggestions On What To Bring - Broken in Hiking Boots, Trekking Poles, Lunch/Snacks, Adequate Water/Electrolytes, First Aid Kit, Good Day Pack, Money for Your Driver, Layers of Clothing
Carpooling - We will be car pooling from Pro Re Nata brewery. If folks want to carpool from Charlottesville to Pro Re Nata, please communicate with each other directly to work out a carpooling plan. Leave in time to be at Pro Re Nata by 8:30 AM.
Meeting At Trailhead - If you are going to meet at the trailhead, please let me know in advance and arrive at the trailhead by no later than 9:20 AM.
After Hike Option - Your favorite beverage & snack at Pro Re Nata or Blue Mountain Brewery