Bearfence Mountain Loop

This is one of my favorite hikes in Shenandoah National Park for its views, easy access to the trail, and the option to combine it with a much further hike on the AT. There is also a really fun little rock scramble at the top that scares a lot of people away, but makes for a more secluded summit, especially during the week. There are 360 views of the Blue Ridge Mountains from the top, and it's my favorite place of all time to watch summer storms roll by (with caution, of course!). In the spring and fall it's especially gorgeous, but a good trail at any time. PLEASE NOTE: the scramble at the top is tricky for dogs and it's one of the few trails in the park where you can't bring your adventure pup.

The trailhead is located on mp 55.1 of Skyline Drive, and you can access Shenandoah National Park from several different entrances. The parking lot is well marked with a sign, and I have never had a problem with space, though I imagine in the fall on a weekend you will want to go early. From there you cross Skyline Drive, and the trailhead is located just on the other side of the street. Just stay straight, and the trial will intersect with the AT in about .3 miles. Just keep straight again(there is a sign) and follow the blue blazes. When you get to the rock scramble, keep on the blue blazes until you reach the summit. From the summit, you can either make it a loop by following the signs, or come back the way you came. Either way, it's a ~1 mile hike.