Key’s Gap to Buzzard Rocks & Eagle’s Nest Overlooks (Rating: A)

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.

This is a 13 mile out-and-back hike with about 1,500' of elevation gain on the Appalachian Trail, south of Key’s Gap (VA Rt 9 @ the VA/WV border). We will begin at the Key’s Gap parking lot (39.261506, -77.762440) that is on the north side of Rt 9 just after crossing into West Virginia. This is not a big lot but there is an overflow about 200 yds further on off Chestnut Hill Rd. Please arrive at least 15 minutes early so we can get everyone parked and formed up to hike by 8am. There are no facilities at the trail head, but there is a Liberty Gas Station and market about ¼ mile before you get to the trail, with bathrooms, beverages, and even groceries for thru-hikers.

This is an out-and-back trail, but given that it is the AT, with 1,500’ of elevation gain spread out over 13 miles, it is relatively flat. I generally maintain a 2-2.5 mph pace, but do get waylaid by good photo ops. There is water at the David Lesser Shelter and Blackburn Trail Center for emergencies, but both are a fair bit off trail, so plan snacks and water for the full 13+ miles. We will break for lunch at the mid-point which is Eagle’s Nest Overlook.

Dogs are permitted on this hike in accordance with the NVHC Dog Policy. https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy

Leader: Dale Johnson (540-454-5592 (off during business hours))

Meet: AT Parking Lot - North side of VA Rt 9 right at the VA/WV Border (39.261506, -77.762440).

Rating: A – See NOTE below

Please NOTE, this is a DIFFICULTY RATING, not a “Fun” rating or a “Scenery” Rating. These are not YELP Stars. The System assigns a point per mile and a point for every 400 feet of altitude gained. 0-7 pts = “D”; 7-10 pts = “C”; 10-13 pts = “B”; 13-19 pts = “A”; over 19 pts = “A+”. This hike is 13 miles & 1,500 ft for a little over 17 pts. If you cannot walk 17 miles around your neighborhood with only brief breaks, don’t sign up for this “A” hike because “it got good reviews.”

Map for hike: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1XNFsNf9GtCNHvBkfbfckUWPqWvU4WMuz/view?usp=sharing / PLEASE PRINT OUT AND BRING IT WITH YOU.

Or you can try: https://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=7524004

REHYDRATION: For those interested, on the way home for most, and not too big of a detour for the rest, is Harvest Gap Brewery (15485 Purcellville Rd, Hillsboro, VA 20132). They have pretty good food menu, and an excellent selection of beers, and assorted other beverages. We will stop to rehydrate, as it is forecast to be a warm day.