Rose River Falls/Dark Hollow Falls/Blackrock Overlook (Rating: B)

You must read the following NVHC Sign-in Sheet Statement/Liability Disclaimer, https://nvhc.com/signin.pdf and then answer the question that you will see when you RSVP with "I accept" to be permitted on the hike.

8 miles with approximately 1700 feet elevation gain.

Description:
This is a beautiful loop in Shenandoah National Park that will take us along the path of Rose River and Hog Camp Branch, two lively streams with nearly continuous cascades, falls, and flumes that are easily accessible in many spots. It passes two of the park’s more popular falls, the Rose River and Dark Hollow Falls. We will start off the hike at the Blackrock Overlook at Big Meadows lodge and finish there as well. There will be plenty of opportunities for photos!

Hiking Pace:
About 2.5 mph, a little slower on the uphill.

There are restrooms at the Big Meadows Lodge where we start and finish. We will stop for lunch break along the Rose River trail before continuing on to Dark Hollow and completing the loop.

Dogs:
Dogs are not allowed on Dark Hollow Falls trail, so no dogs will be allowed on this hike.

Although the mileage is low, the elevation gain can be somewhat challenging. Rose River trail gradually ascends up toward Dark Hollow Falls. There is a fairly steep hill to climb from the bottom of Dark Hollow Falls to the upper falls area, then a gradual upward climb to the top where we arrive at Skyline Drive. There will be an opportunity for a restroom break at Byrd Visitor Center.

Bring:
At least 2 liters of water/hydration, snacks/lunch, and sturdy hiking shoes since there are rocky areas and tree roots. Also recommend insect repellant. Although there are no stream crossings, it is not unusual to have water on the trail & rocks at both locations. Hiking poles may be helpful especially if you usually use them..

Meet at the Big Meadows lodge parking area, located at mile marker 51
GPS 38.52979,-78.44096 You must follow the road from Big Meadows Wayside back to the Lodge. Hike starts there at 9:30am.

CARPOOLING: For those who are looking to carpool, meet at University Blvd - Gainesville Park and Ride and plan to leave at 7:30am to arrive at the trailhead in time to get signed in and start hiking at 9:30am.
A new Sheetz has opened in the Park & Ride, this would be a good meeting point. New Stable Way, directly across from the Sheetz store.
GPS 38.801119, -77.589532

Neither the Club nor the hike leader is responsible for coordinating transportation to/from the trailhead. Hikers are not guaranteed to get a ride to the trailhead from the carpool location. Carpooling is organized by the participants and they participate at their own risk. Suggested carpool fee: $7.00 per rider. Driving time from Gainesville Park & Ride to Big Meadows Lodge is about 1 hour 40 minutes. You may want to plan on a little extra time for a pit stop on the way.

Neither the Club nor the hike leaders are responsible for coordinating transportation to/from the trailhead. Hikers are not guaranteed to get a ride to the trailhead from the carpool location. Carpooling is organized by the participants and they participate at their own risk.

If you are driving directly to Big Meadows Lodge please be there a few minutes before 9:30am so we can get everyone signed in.

Please note: The hike starts at Big Meadows Lodge parking lot at 9:30am. If you plan on carpooling from Gainesville Park & Ride, plan to leave there at about 7:30am in order to arrive at at the Big Meadows Lodge by 9:15am.

Fee: $30 park entrance fee unless you have a National Park pass. Military and veterans are eligible for entry with identification or America the Beautiful military pass.

Optional rehydration at Big Meadows Lodge.

Any questions, please message me here or text/call @202-528-0456. If you text me, please include your name.