About us
FOLLOW OUR INSTAGRAM - P.S. Hikers
If you'd like to be apart of our DISCORD channel please text MERB at 704-224-8559
We are a community of experienced hikers who enjoy exploring trails that range from moderate to challenging levels. While we welcome hikers of all backgrounds, our group typically gravitates toward more advanced adventures that require a solid foundation of hiking experience, endurance, and preparedness.
To support a wide range of skill levels, our hikes and trips are clearly categorized as Beginner/Easy, Moderate, Hard, or Expert. We offer plenty of variety in our schedule, so even if a moderate or hard trip doesn’t align with your comfort level, there are still opportunities to join us on easier adventures and grow at your own pace. We believe it’s essential for every hiker to take personal responsibility for knowing their own abilities and limitations—and to choose trips accordingly. Safety, preparation, and respect for the trail and fellow hikers are our top priorities.
Please note: For Expert-level hikes or multi-day backpacking trips, our leadership team may reach out directly if we feel the level of difficulty may not be a safe or appropriate fit for someone signed up. These conversations come from a place of care and commitment to ensuring a positive and safe experience for all.
We love nature deeply and believe everyone should have the chance to experience the joy, healing, and adventure it offers. Through our hikes, we’re not just exploring trails—we’re building a strong, inclusive outdoor community where all people are welcomed, supported, and encouraged to connect with the natural world.
** Special Notice: This group is NOT run by certified or professional mountain guides. The group leaders, Merb and Food Lion, do have a combined experience of over 20 years in the woods and on trails but are not held liable for any incidents, accidents or issues while on trail. PLEASE make sure you are able to handle the walk and read the disclaimer on every post **
Upcoming events
22
Old Rag + Cedar Run Weekend
Location not specified yet**\ Follow us on instagram and tiktok at P.S. Hikers. If you'd like to be added to our community discord please message MERB at 704-224-8559**
Join PS Hikers for an unforgettable weekend exploring some of Virginia's most iconic trails during peak fall hiking season! We'll spend the weekend camping together, sharing campfires, stories, good food, and tackling two incredible hikes in Shenandoah National Park.
Whether you're pitching a tent under the stars or treating yourself to a cozy cabin, this weekend is all about adventure, community, and making memories together.🏕️ Basecamp
We'll be staying at Graves Mountain Farm & Lodges.
Camping will be our primary option, allowing everyone to enjoy the full weekend experience together. If camping isn't your style, don't worry! Graves Mountain also offers nearby cabins and lodging for those looking for a more comfortable ("boujee") weekend while still being close to the group.Our leaders will be arriving Friday evening, September 25, to get camp set up. You're welcome to arrive Friday evening as well, get your campsite situated, settle in, and spend a relaxing evening around camp getting to know everyone before our hiking adventures begin Saturday morning.
Cost for Camping: $12 per night. You can pay the day you get there!
Campground: Graves Mountain Farm and Lodges - we are staying at the campground
Shenandoah Parking Cost: Buy your pass here! Annuals are only $55!We'll begin the weekend on the beautiful Cedar Run Trail, one of Shenandoah National Park's hidden gems.
This rugged mountain trail follows Cedar Run through a peaceful forest, featuring multiple creek crossings, cascading waterfalls, crystal-clear pools, and rushing rapids along the way. Expect rocky terrain, a few challenging climbs, and plenty of opportunities to stop and appreciate the incredible scenery. It's a fantastic introduction to the park and one of the area's best waterfall hikes.Participants should have the endurance to complete roughly 13 miles on steep or mountainous trails, or 16 miles on mostly level terrain, within a day.
Saturday, September 25
Trail: Cedar Run Falls Trail
Miles: 7 miles
Level: Hard to Strenuous
Arrival Time: 9:15am
Start Time: 9:30am
What to Bring: Water, water filter, high protein snacks, lunch to enjoy, change of clothes in case you feel like plunging, towel
Alltrails Link: Cedar Run Falls TrailAfter hiking we will head back to the campsite for a bonfire and connection. Bring whatever camp food is desirable for you as it is bring your own food/supplies. We will supply s'mores for enjoying and the music to vibe with!
Sunday, September 27
We'll wrap up the weekend by taking on one of the most famous hikes on the East Coast—Old Rag Mountain.
Known for its exciting rock scramble, sweeping summit views, and unforgettable adventure, Old Rag is a true bucket-list hike. You'll climb over massive granite boulders, squeeze through narrow rock passages, and navigate rugged terrain before reaching panoramic views that make every bit of effort worthwhile.Trail: Old Rag Mountain Loop
Miles: 12 miles
Level: Hard to Strenuous
Arrival Time: 9:30am
Start Time: 9:45am
PERMIT IS REQUIRED. We will acquire prior OR at the location.
What to Bring: Water, water filter, high protein snacks, lunch to enjoy, change of clothes in case you feel like plunging, towel
Alltrails Link: Old Rag Mountain LoopThis is a strenuous hike that requires good physical fitness, sturdy footwear, and confidence on uneven terrain—but it's one you'll never forget. We believe that most people who can do a MERB day hike can handle the OLD RAG trail so don't let fear stop you on this one!
MUST KNOWS FOR THIS TRIP:
- Be sure your gas tank is full before hitting our campground. Fuel is available through self-pay at Big Meadows in the Shenandoah National Park, but gas pumps can be unreliable.
- There is NO reception in the Shenny's. You can get reception at the campground through their WiFi but otherwise be prepared for no connect with your outside friends & family.
- Must supply your own supplies including tent, food, etc. for this trip. We will post a recommended list for you!
“By RSVP’ing to this event, you are agreeing to the following:
TRIP PARTICIPANT WAIVER OF LIABILITY
I fully realize that this activity involves a risk of personal injury, property damage, or loss of my person or property. I hereby for myself, my heirs, executors and administrators, and same for persons with whom are in my party, waive and release any claims or rights against P.S. Hikers, all of its owners and coordinators for any and all injury, damages or loss to my person or property incurred during this activity. I also understand that organizers are not required, nor should it be assumed that they are CPR/First Aid/Wilderness Survival Certified and I am responsible for my own personal safety.
Your RSVP indicates release of liability as indicated in the TRIP PARTICIPANT WAIVER OF LIABILITY above.”
13 attendees
Hawksbill Mountain NC - Moderate
Location not specified yet**\ Follow us on instagram and tiktok at P.S. Hikers. If you'd like to be added to our community discord please text MERB at 704-224-8559**
This is a uniquely guided MERB hike for our moderate hikers - and even some beginners - who want to try something a little more rugged.
We will be meeting to hike Hawksbill one of my favorite locations in the Gorge area. The hike itself is short and not crazy difficult. This day will be about immersing ourself in nature at the top and taking in the sites. We will stop and enjoy the fall foliage for an hour break a the summit - bring a cold beer, a lemonade, your art pad, or your camera and be ready to mingle and conversate while we enjoy the beginning of fall.
The hike to the top of Hawksbill Mountain, which stands at an elevation of 4,009 ft, is incredibly rewarding as it offers panoramic views of the Linville Gorge "canyon," with the valley floor situated below you. You won't regret this - but the hike or the community.
Trail: Hawksbill
Hike Level: Moderate
Distance: 2.1 miles
Type: Out and back
Elevation gain: 675 feet
Estimated Time: 3 hours to include community and a 1-hour break at the summit
Meet up time: 9:00am
Hike start time: 9:15am
Recommended Items: Water, an early morning beer or lemonade, a snack and your art pad, writing journal or camera for art based enjoyment as well.
Meet at Trailhead: TRAIL HEAD“By RSVP’ing to this event, you are agreeing to the following:
TRIP PARTICIPANT WAIVER OF LIABILITY
I fully realize that this activity involves a risk of personal injury, property damage, or loss of my person or property. I hereby for myself, my heirs, executors and administrators, and same for persons with whom are in my party, waive and release any claims or rights against P.S. Hikers, all of its owners and coordinators for any and all injury, damages or loss to my person or property incurred during this activity.
I also understand that organizers are not required, nor should it be assumed that they are CPR/First Aid/Wilderness Survival Certified and I am responsible for my own personal safety.
I understand that photos and videos may be taken during this event. By RSVP’ing and participating, I grant P.S. Hikers permission to use any photographs, video recordings, or other media that include my likeness, voice, or image for promotional, marketing, social media, website, and other business-related purposes without compensation or further approval.
Your RSVP indicates release of liability as indicated in the TRIP PARTICIPANT WAIVER OF LIABILITY above, including acknowledgment of the Photography & Media Release.12 attendees
Past events
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