About us
Harrisonburg Active Adventures is a welcoming and fun place for good people who want to get together and have fun enjoying active outdoor activities with like-minded people regardless of their age, sex, race, orientation, religion, country of origin, etc. Our members are diverse, interesting, and friendly.
I'm always looking for people interested in hosting activities, whether it be occasionally or on a regular ongoing basis. If you want to host activities, just let me know, and I'll set you up as an Event Organizer. The objective for this group is to have a diverse schedule of activities such as hiking, camping, backpacking, fishing, rock climbing, bouldering, caving, etc., that cover a wide spectrum of interests. Come join our great group of members, have fun with us, and bring your talents and interests to share with us too. I look forward to meeting you. If you want to lead some events, message me, Rich Bethea, using the app. I'll get right back to you. Thanks.
Disclaimer:
Harrisonburg Active Adventures' event leaders are not professional guides. Expect the same risks and take the same precautions you would take if you were enjoying nature alone. By signing up for and/or attending our events, you acknowledge, understand, accept and agree that the activities we organize can be dangerous and can cause serious bodily injury and possibly death.
Harrisonburg Active Adventures' Organizer and Co-Organizer are not responsible for the safety of participants, members and guest. We will try our best to prevent accidents, but we are not responsible if something happens to you.
Upcoming events
4
Hike Dragon's Tooth and McAfee Knob (12.5 miles, 3,063' gain)
Dragon's Tooth Trail, Appalachian National Scenic Trail, Catawba, VA, USDESCRIPTION:
These two hikes are part of the Triple Crown in Virginia. But instead of doing it over an entire weekend, we are going to do two of the hikes within one day back to back. We will start with the Dragon's Tooth Hike and then get back in our cars and go to the trailhead for the McAfee Knob hike. Then, after we return from McAfee Knob, we will go out for some food and drinks somewhere for some good social time.ALLTRAILS MAP for Dragon's Tooth: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/virginia/dragons-tooth-trail?u=i&sh=y1w9cy
ALLTRAILS MAP for McAfee Knob: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/virginia/mcafee-knob-appalachian-trail?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 Dragon's Tooth Trailhead Parking at 9:45 AM. Here is the directions link from Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/wrFKvYz4s8Dy6kmx9
Then, Gather at the McAfee Knob Trailhead Parking at 12:00 PM. Here is the directions link from Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/pAjsA22c6r24VQ4Y7I 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.
2 attendees
Hike the Priest and Spy Rock (10.6 miles, 2,523' gain)
Upper Crabtree Falls Parking Area, 12119 Meadow Lane, tyro, va, USDESCRIPTION:
Two beautiful hikes combined into one. This grueling, ultra-rewarding trek in the George Washington National Forest combines the relentless, thigh-burning ascent of The Priest with the soaring, 360-degree panoramic summit of Spy Rock. It is a true test of mountain endurance packed with massive ridge vistas.Phase 1: The Relentless Climb Up The Priest
Starting from the Appalachian Trail Trailhead at Route 56, we step right onto the white-blazed trail and begin an unforgiving, steep ascent up the face of The Priest.- The Vibe: Quiet, focused, and gritty. This section is a legendary grind, climbing over 2,000 feet through a series of steep, rocky switchbacks. We will lock into a single-file line, maintain a steady pacing rhythm, and shout out words of encouragement as we push through the dense hardwood canopy.
Phase 2: High Rewards at The Priest Shelter & Overlook
As the trail finally crests the ridge line, the grade levels out near the Priest Shelter. We will take a short side trail out to the dramatic rocky cliff face of The Priest Overlook.The View: From this massive rock outcropping, we get a breathtaking, birds-eye look straight down into the sprawling Tye River Valley and out toward the rolling blue ridges of central Virginia. It is the perfect spot for us to drop our packs, catch our breath, and sign the famous "confessional" logbook inside the shelter.
Phase 3: Cruising to the Spy Rock Scramble
Leaving the summit, we push further south along the ridge, dropping slightly down toward Maintop Mountain before connecting to the old fire road that leads to the base of Spy Rock.- The Vibe: Adventurous and energized. The terrain changes to a wide, easy-to-navigate path where we can walk two-abreast and chat before reaching the final, heart-pumping challenge: a fun, short hand-over-hand rock scramble up the massive granite dome.
Phase 4: Lunch at the Top of the World
We emerge from the scramble onto the completely exposed, flat granite summit of Spy Rock for our long-awaited midday rest.The Lunch Spot: Standing on this elevated stone monolith provides an unobstructed, jaw-dropping 360-degree panorama of the entire religious range (The Priest, Friar, Cardinal, and Bald Friar). We will spread out across the granite to unpack our lunches, soak in the sun, and take our definitive group photo before retracing our steps back down the mountain.
ALLTRAILS MAP: https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/custom-route-spy-rock-via-crabtree-falls-64e6757?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 Meadows Lane Crabtree Falls Parking Area at 9:45 AM to get started. We will gather and head in together.
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” and "Harrisonburg Hiking Adventures" 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 without checking with the hike leader first. Some hikes are fine for dogs, and some are too difficult. Also, some trails forbid dogs. Just message the hike leader to ask first
2 attendees
Hike Trayfoot Mtn-Blackrock-Paine Run (2,205' ascent, 9.17 miles)
blackrock gap trailhead parking, Skyline Drive parking lot, Grottoes, VA, USDESCRIPTION: This rugged, under-the-radar circuit in the Southern District of Shenandoah National Park serves up immense solitude, massive boulder fields, and a peaceful trek through bear country. We will conquer a jaw-dropping talus mountain summit and track along a remote mountain stream far away from the traffic of Skyline Drive.
Phase 1: Navigating the Blackrock Boulder Jumble
We will park at the Blackrock Gap parking area (Milepost 87.4) and head north on the white-blazed Appalachian Trail.- The Vibe: Invigorated and sharp. The trail wastes no time ascending through a forested burn area. After about 1.3 miles, we will bypass the initial Trayfoot turn to hit the stunning Blackrock Summit.
The View: This is easily one of the most physically striking mountaintops in the park—a spectacular, massive jumble of giant quartzite boulders wrapping around the peak. We will scramble up the rock pile to take in a sweeping, unobstructed panorama of the Shenandoah Valley and the rolling western ridges.
Phase 2: Tracing the Fin of Trayfoot Mountain
After scrambling around the boulders, we will use the Blackrock Spur trail to jump onto the blue-blazed Trayfoot Mountain Trail.- The Vibe: Quiet and adventurous. We will push past the viewless, tree-covered 3,374-foot summit of Trayfoot Mountain and lock into a single-file line along the ridge. This lightly maintained trail follows a narrow "fin" of rock, gently dropping for 4 miles through fields of wild blueberries and mountain laurel. We will work together to navigate any overgrown spots or fallen trees.
Phase 3: The Drop to Paine Run
Near the base of Trayfoot, the trail descends via a few tight switchbacks, passing the rugged rock formations of Buzzard Rock before bottoming out at the intersection with the yellow-blazed Paine Run Trail.- The Vibe: Watchful and unified. This deep, isolated wilderness hollow is prime black bear country. We will keep our eyes peeled and stay closely grouped, safely splashing or rock-hopping right across the wide waters of Paine Run stream to find a wide gravel bank for our lunch break.
Phase 4: The Historical Climb Out
Our final stretch follows the wide, rocky Paine Run Trail (an old 19th-century roadbed) as it climbs gradually back up the valley toward our cars.- The Vibe: Relaxed and conversational. Because this multi-purpose trail climbs at a gentle, easy grade, we can walk two or three abreast, chat, and listen to the stream rushing on our left. We will pass the historic, muddy ruins of Blackrock Springs—a fashionable 1840s resort—before a final steady push brings us right back to the Blackrock Gap parking lot.
TRAIL MAP: https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/trayfoot-mountain-trail-46d0671. Please download this map onto your phone.
PARKING/CARPOOLING: Please arrive at the Blackrock Gap Trailhead Parking lot 15 minutes before the start of the hike. Also, 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. 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.
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 Adventures” and "Harrisonburg Hiking Adventures" meetup groups' 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.
2 attendees
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