View Full Version : Day Hike Loops with A.T in Shenandoah, Near Lewis Mtn Wayside
Going to be at Lewis Mtn in SNP in a few weeks for a quick overnight and looking for a nice side trail with A.T. loop (or all A.T.) for a day hike near this part of the park with a nice view. Any suggestions? 3-5 miles. Already did Stony Man and Skyland. We will have a car and can drive up to 30 mins away in the park but what's close? Thanks in advance. Is Black Rock summit near here?
update: since we want to see the fireworks we are now going to stay in Luray but can anyone recommend a nice loop hike near Thornton Gap in the park?
There is some great hiking and blueberries in the Big Run area. You can loop any length of hike together as there is a nice network of trails. Very cool area.
also what are some good short loops near swift run gap?
jimmyjam
06-05-2017, 14:53
also what are some good short loops near swift run gap?
Check out the park's web site: https://www.nps.gov/shen/planyourvisit/hiking-opportunities.htm
Also inquire with the rangers at the entrance station, they will have free maps.
Studlintsean
06-05-2017, 15:58
update: since we want to see the fireworks we are now going to stay in Luray but can anyone recommend a nice loop hike near Thornton Gap in the park?
Thornton Gap is MM35.
MM45- Hawksbill Loop. This is a short hike but one with an excellent view.
MM50.5- Rose River/ Dark Hollow Falls Loop.
Both easily doable in a few hours (at moderate pace).
Marys rock has a great view and the trail can be assed right off of 211 at Thorton gap.
Assuming you'll only have one car, but here's my suggestions if starting/ending at Thornton Gap.
1) Park at Thornton Gap (Skyline Drive 31.5). Hitch or get shuttle southbound about two miles to the Meadow Spring trailhead (SD 33.5). Cross the Drive, hike up the Meadow Spring Trail to its intersection with the AT, and head NOBO. Unless it's fogged in, definitely take the 0.1-mi. side trail to Mary's Rock--a splendid 270-degree viewpoint. Return to the AT and descend to Thornton Gap where you're parked. This is a more diverse, enjoyable hike than #2 below.
2) If you do not want to shuttle or hitch to SD 33.5, then just park at Thornton Gap, hike SOBO on the AT and take the extra side trail to Mary's Rock. Return NOBO the same way.