Mathews Arm-Weddlewood-Knob Mtn-Jeremys Run-AT-Elkwallow
Details
This moderately strenuous 8-mile circuit offers a deep immersion into the rugged North District of Shenandoah National Park, combining panoramic ridgeline trekking with lush stream-valley scenery. Starting from Mathews Arms Campground Overflow Parking, the route traverses high points near Knob Mountain before descending into the tranquil wilderness of Jeremy’s Run, where hikers will navigate over a dozen picturesque stream crossings. The addition of the Weddlewood and Elkwallow trails creates a comprehensive loop that showcases the park's diverse ecosystems, from dry oak-hickory forests to vibrant riparian corridors. With significant elevation changes and technical water crossings, this hike is a rewarding challenge for experienced adventurers seeking a great day of exploration in Shenandoah National Park backcountry.
Hiking Pace: We typically hike about 2.25 mph (faster on flat sections, slower on hilly / rocky sections).
Fees: Park fee or pass. https://www.nps.gov/shen/planyourvisit/fees.htm
What to Bring: Dress in layers and be prepared for cold weather. Bring at least two liters of water, emergency contact information, personal first aid kit and medications, snacks/meal, sunscreen, insect repellant, trekking poles if you use them (highly recommended for hikes with water crossings), proper hiking footwear.
Please leave pets at home.
Time to Meet: Please meet by 7:45 am for introductions and sign in. We will start hiking promptly at 8:00 am. If you can't make the hike, please cancel your RSVP by 6 pm the night before to allow others on the waiting list to join. There is often limited/no cell service in the area, so hike leaders may not receive messages the day of the hike.
Meeting Place: 801 Mathews Arm Entrance Rd, Rileyville, VA 22650
https://maps.app.goo.gl/5TxkvR4e8fdsTWEn8
Facilities: There are bathrooms at Mathews Arm, and it’s a small walk from the parking lot. If you expect to use the bathroom, please arrive early enough to provide sufficient time.
Contact Information: Please use the comments feature for comments and questions. The hike leader is Marc H.
Hike Details
-Rating: Moderately Strenuous
-Distance: Approx. 8 miles
-Elevation Gain: Approximately 1,600 feet
-Pace: Average about 2.25 miles per hour
-Fees: Park fee or pass. https://www.nps.gov/shen/planyourvisit/fees.htm
Cancellation: In the unlikely event that the hike needs to be cancelled, it may be cancelled up to the evening before the hike. Hikers will be notified through comments on this posting.
Weather: The weather for this location can be found here.
Notes:
-You must sign up by 8:00 PM the day before the hike.
-Please do not show up unregistered.
-Please keep this a fragrance-free event.
-Please leave pets at home.
-To find out more about PATC, click here.
-Consider becoming a member of PATC. To join, click here.
-Attendance is limited at the discretion of our hike leaders. PATC rules do not permit children under 18 years to participate in a hike without a parent or guardian present.