Rose River (5 miles) and Bearfence (1 mile) hike/rock scramble + Taphouse
Details
We’ll keep this group small—maximum 10 people for this trip. Bearfence in particular has limited space at the summit, and we’ll likely be sharing it with other hikers.
The highlight of this outing is Bearfence Mountain, a short but exciting 1‑mile loop. If you’ve done Old Rag before, think of this as a mini version: fun rock scrambles, a natural slide, no lines, and a sweeping 360° view at the top—basically the perfect trail. Because Bearfence is short, we’re pairing it with Rose River Falls, a more scenic 5‑mile loop. Rose River adds some mileage, features beautiful waterfalls, a mysterious petrified hippo, and offers a few secluded backcountry spots worth scouting if you’re into camping.
Trail Facts
• Difficulty Level: Moderate
• Length: 6 Miles
• Duration: 4-6 hrs
• Elevation Gain: 1,187 Feet• Permits: $30 entrance fee or America the Beautiful Pass (please leave a comment is you have a pass, i have 2)
• Dogs: Rose River, yes. Bearfence, no.
• Parking: Vienna Metro Station
• Trailhead Coordinates: 38.53405, -78.42236 and 38.45237, -78.46690
• AllTrails Map: Rose River
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/virginia/rose-river-trail?sh=jsyxka&utm_medium=trail_share&utm_source=alltrails_virality
Bearfence Mountain Trail
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/virginia/bearfence-mountain-trail?sh=jsyxka&utm_medium=trail_share&utm_source=alltrails_virality
Trail Details/Getting There:
Carpooling: meet at the Vienna South Metro Station at 8:00 AM and carpool to the trailhead. Drive time is about 2.5 hours. Please post a comment below if you are willing to drive. Carpooling saves the environment and makes friends.
Camping Optional: i have campsite 7 at big meadow booked from friday to sunday, if you wish to show up the night before to avoid morning lines at the entrance. Please leave a comment if you will be joining the campsite. I will DM you for additional info.
Meeting in the park: https://maps.app.goo.gl/baQSaBGZRUnRmBxDA?g_st=ipc
Fishers gap parking lot. Look for a silver honda accord with ALOT of bumper stickers. Aim to be at the parking lot by 11am. If you are running late please let me know. Please send me a DM if you any questions.
We'll begin our day at Fisher's Gap to hike the Rose River Falls loop. Keep an eye out for a silver honda accord with an unhealth amount of park bumper stickers. After completing Rose River, we'll consolidate into as few cars as possible since the Bearfence parking lot only holds about ten vehicles. We can stop by the wayside for a quick bathroom break. From there, it's a short 15-minute drive to the Bearfence Trailhead, where we'll take on the fun 1-mile rock scramble and enjoy the 360° mountain views. Once we've finished at Bearfence, we'll return to our cars at Fisher's Gap and wrap up the trip with an optional stop at the Taproom at Big Meadows Lodge for food and drinks.
LIABILITY NOTICE: Please remember that this group operates under the common adventurer model. We are a group of friends and volunteers organizing trips for fun and shared experience. Participants are expected to be familiar with best hiking practices and choose hikes that align with their physical abilities and experience. Organizers and members are not liable for any injuries, loss, or damage to persons or property arising from group activities. By attending this event, you agree to assume all risks associated with the activity. For more information on the common adventurer model, please see Ron Watters' definition. If you believe you may be lost during the hike, follow the advice of the US Forest Service. See you on the trail!