Ravens Rock Overlook. This is a challenging 9 mile out & back run with ~ 2 miles of flat pavement, steep technical bits, a small waterfall, and a good amount of smooth trail in between. (Runners may also turn around early or stick to the paved paths for an easier outing.)
WHEN: Thursday, Sept 2 at 6:30 pm
WHERE: Shenandoah Retreat Parking Lot, 1400 Parker Lane, Bluemont, VA
HOW: We will start as a group to warm up, likely fall into 2-3 pace groups for the main climb, re-group at the Raven Rocks overlook, and then return to the cars either together as 1 group or in smaller subgroups. We’ll ensure everyone has at least 1 running buddy, however.
ROUTE: From the parking lot, turn north on the paved former cart path. Either path (through the gate to river or straight ahead) is OK, as the two come together in 0.8 miles. From there, stay straight/to the left to stay low until (at mile 1.1) you see a sign for “Ridge to River Trail” on the left. Turn left onto a grassy path to enter the Rolling Ridge property on the Ridge to River Trail (blue blazes). (You’ll be on this trail all the way to the Appalachian Trail, but it runs with several other trails at various junctures.) On the Ridge to River trail, you’ll cross Rocky Branch for the first time at a small waterfall at mile 1.3. Proceed to Mission Road (a dirt/grassy two-track) at ~ 2.6 miles. Turn right on Mission Road and go <100 yards before turning onto a foot trail to stay on the Ridge to River Trail (blue blazes & white diamond markers). Continue to a large power line, and turn right on the Power Line Trail (~ 2.9 miles). Proceed uphill, passing Grand Boulevard & the Perimeter Trail (both on the left). The trail will veer right away from the power line at ~ 3.7 miles, and by 3.9 miles, you’ll reach the Appalachian Trail (white blaze). Turn right and follow the AT to the Raven Rocks overlook (mile 4.4). Retrace steps to return to the parking lot.
If you accidentally go too far up the power line path, you'll hit a paved road. Turn around and retrace your steps until you see the white blazed Appalachian Trail. Turn left and you will rejoin the normal route.
ROUTE MAP:
https://www.strava.com/routes/2862053198989710864
Also check out other Trips & Adventurous Activities in Bluemont.
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