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This hike is a part of the PATC CentennialFest 2026-Celebrating 100 Years of Volunteers. Copernicus Ridge Trail, 4.5 miles, 1000' elevation gain, leads to several outcrops and incredible views of Edinburg Gap and Waonaze Peak on Powell Mountain. From the parking area to the trailhead, it is a 1/2-mile walk on a Forest Service road.
The hiking pace is 1.7-2.0 mph, and we will stop to admire overlooks and anything interesting on the trail.

How was Copernicus named? The local legend, passed down through generations of Shenandoah Valley residents, speaks of a small group of amateur astronomers in the early 20th century who frequented the ridge. They believed that its elevation and relative lack of light pollution provided an ideal vantage point for observing the night sky.

Parking and Directions: The parking area is off Edinburg Gap Road, 38°47'21.2"N 78°31'13.5"W.

You will see a sign: " Edinburg Gap ATV/OHV Parking." This is where you park.

I drive a white Toyota Corolla. I will be in the parking lot with my trunk open.

You do not need a pass or to pay a fee; the fee is for ATV and OHV.

The Edinburg Gap ATV/OHV Parking lot is approximately 10 minutes from Caroline Furnance Camp.

Hiking Guides:
Copernicus Ridge Hike - George Washington NF, VA | MyHikes

Restroom: A pit toilet is located in the back portion of the parking area.

Contact Information: If you have questions, please use the comments feature in Meetup. The hike leader is Sue Collins.

Cancellation: If the hike needs to be canceled, hikers will be notified through comments on this posting. Please check Meetup for updates the evening before the hike.

What to Bring: At least two liters of water, emergency contact information, personal first aid kit and medications, snacks/meal, sunscreen/ protection from weather, insect repellent, trekking poles if you use them (highly recommended for hikes with water crossings), sturdy hiking footwear.

Please leave pets at home. Thanks!

Notes:

  • RSVP to register for this hike. If your plans change, update your RSVP.
  • Attendance will be limited at the discretion of our hike leaders. We will give preference to PATC members.
  • PATC rules do not permit children under 18 years to participate in a hike without a parent or guardian present.
  • The PATC requires hikers to sign a liability waiver; you can review the waiver at PATC Forms, Hike Sign Up Sheet, and Liability Waiver (http://patc.net/patc-forms-and-policies). I will have the waiver at the hike for you to sign.

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