- Highlights: Views, Bearfence, Blackrock
- Distance: 8.6 miles point to point
- Elevation Change: 1,571 feet
- Trail Surface: Dirt and rocks
- Difficulty Level: Strenuous
- Trailhead Parking: Lewis Mountain Cabins, Skyline Drive MP 57.5
- Trail Markings: White blazes, signs at trail junctions
- Website: AllTrails and Shenandoah National Park
- Beer Pairings: Big Meadows Lodge—Brothers Skyline Falls IPA & Bearfence DIPA
Trail Map:
The Hike:
Day 2 of our inn to inn hike on the AT in Shenandoah National Park begins at Lewis Mountain Cabins. The connector trail to the AT is just past the campground. Turn left and follow the white blazes north on the AT.
This section of the AT had the most wildflowers. Trillium, azaleas, mountain laurel, wild geranium, and many others were in bloom on our hike in early May. Bearfence Mountain and its popular rock scramble is about 2 miles into this northbound hike. There are three access points to Bearfence. The easiest (and safest) way to climb the rock scramble is counterclockwise. Take the third spur trail (closest to the parking area). After completing the scramble, the trail will return you to the AT at the first junction. Continue to follow the AT northbound.
The AT climbs to the summit of Hazeltop at 3,770’. You may see a partial view through the trees. As we descended from Hazeltop, clouds and rain rolled in and visibility dropped significantly. The trail crosses Skyline Drive at Milam Gap and then begins a gradual climb as you approach Big Meadows Lodge. A short blue-blazed spur trail leads to the summit of Blackrock. We were in the midst of fog and clouds and visibility from Blackrock was about 50 feet. With better weather conditions, Blackrock offers nice views to the west and north. The lodge and a cold beer are a few hundred yards ahead.
Hike Photos:
Beer Pairing:
The New Market Taproom at Big Meadows Lodge is downstairs from the main lobby. The taproom has six taps of draft beer, wine, and a full bar. A variety of food items are available including burgers, salads, soups, and small plates. Big Meadows Lodge is our favorite in Shenandoah. A variety of lodging options are available from rooms in the historic main lodge to cabins.
Kathy likes hazy IPAs and Skyline Falls (6.5% ABV) from Brothers Brewing in Harrisonburg is a great hazy IPA. Brewed with El Dorado and Mosaic hops, it’s juicy and fruity. Bearfence DIPA (7.6% ABV) is brewed by Basic City Beer Co. in Waynesboro exclusively for Shenandoah National Park. This beer isn’t overpowered by alcohol, it’s more like a hazy IPA with note of pine. Hoppy trails!
Hike and drink responsibly. Never drink and drive. Stay safe, be responsible, and leave no trace.