GUIDE TO OUTDOOR RECREATION

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PLAN YOUR ADRENALINE RUSH

VisitShenandoahCounty.com WELCOME

The is as beautiful as its name has invoked for centuries. Its beauty has been written about in folklore, it is endlessly the subject of paintings and photography. Its mountains span the western border of and its lazy river meanders with no hurry as it bends and winds along the edge of the western face of the Blue Ridge.

Travelers looking for a place where natural beauty is abundant Plan Your Adrenaline Rush ...... 4 and wildlife is accessible to the naked eye do not need to go further than just 90 miles west of Washington DC. In , Biking & Horseback Riding . . . . 6 Shenandoah County, visitors are welcome to experience the outdoors at their own pace whether it is a leisurely stroll on an Camping ...... 12 easy to see birds and wildflowers, or an adrenaline rush jumping from an airplane to see the valley from 12,000 feet. Public River Access ...... 16

Shenandoah County is an outdoor lover’s dream on land, Fishing, Hunting, & Bird Watching . . . . 20 water or in the air. Here you can tackle 178 miles of throughout National Forest on foot, on Off Highway Vehicle (OHV) Trails . . . 24. horseback, or mountain bike; you can kayak, float or fish on ...... 28 the North Fork of the ; cruise the scenic Aerial Sports backroads on a motorcycle or on a bicycle; see the beautiful Golf & Disc Golf ...... 30 views from the top of a mountain ski lift, or the basket of a hot air balloon; enjoy four seasons of fun on the slopes of Bryce Winter Sports at Bryce Resort . . . . . 32 Mountain Resort.

This guide gives you an insider’s view of where to go, how to get there, and what to expect in order to help you plan the Shenandoah County Tourism best outdoor adventure possible. Take a look at Shenandoah 600 North Main Street, Suite 101 County’s Visitor Guide for detailed information about places to Woodstock, VA 22664 stay, places to eat and other things to do while you’re here. 540-459-6227 VisitShenandoahCounty.com

PLAN YOUR ADRENALINE RUSH

2 VisitShenandoahCounty.com 3 ith over 178 miles of trails throughout the George Washington National Forest, it can PLAN YOUR be difficult to know where to begin. Let the Wstaff at the George Washington and Jefferson ADRENALINE RUSH National Forests Lee Ranger CCC Interpretive Center help advise you with available trail maps and other resources.

Information about numerous recreational activities, George Washington and Jefferson National Forests developed campgrounds, picnic areas and hiking trails Lee Ranger CCC Interpretive Center within the District which lies between Massanutten and 102 Koontz Street, Edinburg, VA 22824 Great North Mountains. Purchase trail maps, forest maps, 540-984-4101 or 540-933-6171 | Mon-Fri, 8:00am-4:30pm books and souvenirs.

PAGE 17 SEVEN BENDS STATE PARK

Totaling over 1,000 acres and located in the geographically unique “seven bends” area of the North Fork of the Shenandoah offering four miles of river frontage with public access and hiking trails to take advantage of the spectacular scenery and tell the stories of the area’s natural and cultural resources . Entrances located off Lupton Road and Hollingsworth Road just outside of Woodstock, Virginia . dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/seven-bends 4 5 eaturing 178 miles of trails throughout the Trail Key: National Forest and even more throughout Handicap the many local parks, Shenandoah County  Accessible Trails offers trails for all skill levels, including Bike Trail Fsome handicap accessible trails.  Hiking Trail Trails are listed based on their location within  8 Horse Trail the county from North to South. They are also marked on the pull-out map at the end of this  Easy guide. GPS Coordinates of trailheads or parking  Moderate areas are included when available. Enter GPS Hard coordinates as you would any address in your  smart phone or mapping device, or reference the map for an overview. HIKING Many trails intersect one another at places. It is advised that visitors bring a trail map when they BIKING are unfamiliar with the area. More information on each trail is also available at visitshenandoahcounty.com/play/outdoor-sports-recreation/hiking/

For trail locations, please refer to the map at the end of this guide.

1 3 Strasburg River Walk    This challenging 65 .9 mile loop runs Begin your walk at the Strasburg from Strasburg to New Market and back Town Park . The gravel walkway, located up through Warren County . Enjoy the along the Shenandoah River, offers entire trail split over several days or beautiful views of the river and the face enjoy a shorter portion of the trail for of the Range a simple day hike . Highlights include called . The .9 mile walk a hang glider launch site overlooking ends at Strasburg High School (Ram the Seven Bends of the Shenandoah Drive) and three benches and three River just below the Woodstock Tower doggie clean-up stations are located HORSEBACK accessible from Woodstock Tower Road . along the walk . 2 Signal Knob 8 4 Sulpher Springs Gap Trail    RIDING This 9 .9 mile hike offers spectacular   A quiet 7 mile trail featuring views of Strasburg, and the small waterfalls and pools adjoining the Shenandoah Valley . Both Confederate with views of the Valley and Union troops used Signal Knob as a and White Rock Cliff and Tea Mountain . lookout point and signal station during Parking located off Forest Route 1725 the Civil War . Located off Fort Valley GPS COORDINATES: 38 .97539, -78 .56764 Road . The trail starts from the right side 5 Meneka Peak This 8 .6 of the Signal Knob parking area .   GPS COORDINATES: 38 .93503, -78 .31956 mile hike is an abbreviated version of the Signal Knob hike with great views of the valley below . The trailhead is located on the right hand ride of the Signal Knob parking area is located in Fort Valley off Rt . 678 . GPS COORDINATES: 38 .93537, -78 .31953

6 VisitShenandoahCounty.com 7 6 Mudhole Mountain 12 Little 17 Little Sluice 21 Bryce Mountain Bike 8  8  8    This 12 .7 mile trail is This trail uses several This 13 mile hike is best completed Park    a continuation  of Maneka Peak and portions  of other hikes in the Signal in two days and features a great 1982 Fairway Dr, Basye is popular with mountain bikers and Knob area including Signal Knob, campsite on the White Rocks Trail near 540-856-2121 levels off after the first 4 miles . Snow Meneka Peak, Mudhole Gap, and the lookout . Located off Johnstown bryceresort.com melt forms Little Passage Creek which Three Top Mountain and follows a Road . Park at the gate on Rt .88 . To Featuring 8 lift accessed trails ranging runs through Mudhole Gap in the early long section of a Forestry Service Road begin the hike, follow the road past from beginner to advanced, some of spring . Start by taking the Tuscarora making it a nice day hike . Located off the gate before left and continuing which are over 2 miles long . The park Trail to the 1st intersection then turn Boyer Road in Fort Valley . Start at the uphill onto the orange blazed Bread also includes a learning center with left . Located near closed gate on the Massanutten Trail . Road Trail . certified instructors and a bike retail Recreation Area . GPS COORDINATES: 38 .914186, -78 .374178 GPS COORDINATES: 38 .93246, -78 .61782 and rental shop . GPS COORDINATES: 38 .92997, -78 .32788 13 18 22 Buzzard Rock  / Stack Rock Trail  7    Buzzard Rock North  This 7 mile out and back hike is a Mill Mountain  This easy 1 .6 mile (one way) hike This is a short and easy 4 shorter hike near Elizabeth Furnace . This 4 .4 mile hike climbs 1000  vertical connects the mile hike with spectacular views from Located off Fort Valley Road . The trail feet and is a popular day trip offering Trail with The Laurel Run Spur Trail . Buzzard Rock of Fort Valley below . head is located through the picnic area panoramic views from a towering Generally steep and narrow as it Accessible via Fort Valley at the Buzzard straight ahead past the furnace . outcrop of white sandstone on Mill descends the mountain . Parking off Rock parking area off Rt . 619 . GPS COORDINATES: 38 .93773, -78 .28855 Mountain . The trailhead is located Forest Road 252 (known on Google GPS COORDINATES: 38 .93773, -78 .28855 in the Wolf Gap Recreation Area Maps as Logger Rd 252) off Cold Spring 14 Three Top Mountain  running north . Located at the Wolf Road near Jerome . 8  Tuscarora/Bear Wallow This 7 .6 mile trail stretches 3 5. Gap Recreation Area near the VA/WV Trail 8 This 3 .15 mile miles along the ridge line and is one of 23 Kepler Overlook   state line .   trail ascends to elevations above 2,000 the least traveled trails in the Signal GPS COORDINATES: 38 .92404, -78 .68949 Located near Sheffer’s Gap off the ft . Park in the Signal Knob parking area Knob area . Located off Boyer Road in Tuscarora Trail, this secluded 6 .6 mile off Rt . 678 . Fort Valley . To begin the trail, backtrack 19 Tibbet Knob Tibbet hike near Van Buren Furnace has   GPS COORDINATES: 38 .9323, -78 .3262 down the forest service road . The Knob is the sister hike to Big Schloss . several nice campsites and vistas trailhead will be on the right . Starting from the same parking lot along with views of Cedar Creek . The 9 Charcoal Trail Located GPS COORDINATES: 38 .92083, -78 .38083   at the Wolf Gap Campground the trailhead for is located off Van Buren within the Elizabeth Furnace Recreation hike heads in the opposite direction . Road west of Maurertown . The lower Area, this 0 .3 mile loop trail offers 15 Tuscarora/Little North Although shorter, this hike is not as gate on Van Buren Road is closed in displays explaining the charcoal making Mountain 8 This   family friendly because of two short, the late fall-early spring . At these process essential to the operation of 8 .2 mile trail ascends from Fetzer Gap steep scrambles to the main Tibbet times, park on the right next to a large the Elizabeth Furnace . Trailhead is off to the ridge of Little North Mountain Knob summit . Park at the Wolf Gap Rec camp site . State Road 678 . before crossing Cedar Creek and Area near the VA/WV state line . GPS COORDINATES: 38 .97137, -78 .56316 GPS COORDINATES: 38 .928996, -78 .326980 ascending once again to the VA/WV GPS COORDINATES: 38 .92404, -78 .68949 24 state line . The 1st half of this trail is Little North Mountain  10 Pig Iron Trail This not maintained and may require some 20 Falls Ridge Hike This 8 .5 mile loop trail requires    easy 0 1. mile trail circles the ruins of bushwhacking . Recommended for 8 This 11 .7 or 6 .9 mile hike some bushwhacking at several points, the Elizabeth Furnace . Learn about experienced hikers only with maps, GPS is long and steep both ascending and which makes the trail hard to follow in the inner workings of iron making in a and compass . Located off Rt . 603 . descending, but offers great solitude places, but it offers spectacular vistas 19th century blast furnace . Accessible GPS COORDINATES: 38 .9423, -78 .3362 and a 30 foot waterfall . Located near from the top of the North Mountain via the Charcoal Trail off Rt . 678 in Liberty Furnace Rd on Rt . 701 for the ridge . Recommended for expert hikers Fort Valley . 16 Woodstock Tower   longer hike or park off Forest Road 252 with a map, compass and GPS . Located GPS COORDINATES: 38 .928996, -78 .326980 This short 0 .15 mile (one-way) hike at the Stack Rock/Laurel Run Trailhead off Zepp Road . takes you to the Woodstock Tower for the 6 .9 mile hike . Begin by crossing GPS COORDINATES: 38 .97237, -78 .52143 11 Sherman Gap Trail   which offers stunning, 360 degree the stream and following the yellow A 5 .6 mile hike following a rocky views of the Town of Woodstock, Seven 25 Little Schloss This blazed trail . Bear right when the trail   trail with a relatively steep incline Bends of the Shenandoah River and Fort splits at the old bus . 13 .2 mile hike is just one of the many increasing as you get closer to the top . Valley from an elevation of 2,000 ft . GPS COORDINATES: 38 .87295, -78 .75547 beautiful circuit hikes in the Great North Parking can be found at the northern Mountain area . It features a spectacular Located off Woodstock Tower Road by trailhead at Elizabeth Furnace off vista with mountain laurel in early to way of Mill Road . Woodstock Tower Panhandle Road . mid-June . Parking is located off Rt . 92 Road is not accessible to trailers, motor near Liberty Furnace . Follow purple homes or RVs due to sharp curves and blazed Little Sluice Mountain Trail for steep grades . This road is also closed the beginning of this hike . when weather conditions warrant . GPS COORDINATES: 38 .90833, -78 .64085 GPS COORDINATES: 38 .871973, -78 .447241 8 VisitShenandoahCounty.com 9 26 8 32 Laurel Run  Lion’s Tale Trail  This 8 8. mile circuit hike  has  some of Enjoy this easy 0 .5 mile interpretive   the best views in the area . Located off loop trail and explore the forest using Logger Road 252 near Liberty Furnace, all your senses . Listen to the gentle west of Woodstock . If the gate is open, ripples of Passage Creek, feel the park further up the road reducing the refreshing water running from the hike to 6 .6 miles . flume, and smell the sweet aromas of GPS COORDINATES: 38 .88885, -78 .72940 sassafras and birch . The trailhead is located on the north end of Crisman 27 Duncan Knob Hollow  Hollow Road, 9 miles from Rt . 211 . This 13 mile hike offers several GPS COORDINATES: 38 .72795, -78 .5333 excellent multi-tent camp sites and is also accessible in the winter to late 33 Massanutten Storybook spring months when Rt . 674 is closed . Trail  Learn how the Located near Camp Roosevelt in Fort Massanutten  Mountain  was formed Valley off Rt . 675 . The trail begins on this easy 0 .4 mile (one-way) paved by going south on the orange blazed trail . Enjoy the scenic overlook of the Massanutten Trail . and GPS COORDINATES: 38 .72821, -78 .51698 from the deck at the end of the trail . Trailhead is located 1 .5 miles from 28 Kennedy Peak Hike/ Rt . 211 on Crisman Hollow Road . 8 Stephens Trail  GPS COORDINATES: 38 .6535, -78 .6032 This popular day hike is steep  in places, but provides wonderful views from an 34 Bird Knob Trail & 8 observation tower . 5 .2 mile or 9 .2 mile Emerald Pond  trail loops are available . Popular with This 8 mile hike features  the beautiful equestrians . The trailhead is at the spring fed Emerald Pond, a swimming back of the parking area near Camp hole with clear and warm water . 37 Wildflower Trail ROAD BIKING Roosevelt in Fort Valley off Rt .675 . Spectacular views of the Harrisonburg   GPS COORDINATES: 38 .72761, -78 .51611 Valley to the west are just 1 .5 miles Learn about the history of forest into the hike . Start at the front of management on this 0 .5 mile (one- Alice & Kevin Road Biking 29 Kerns Mountain way) trail that also retraces Stonewall Adventure   the parking area on the white blazed  This 12 .5 mile loop trail is a tough Wildflower Trail . Located off Rt . 211 Jackson’s footsteps during the 703-927-8474 circuit that passes Duncan Knob and near New Market . Shenandoah Valley campaign of the [email protected] Strickler Knob . Parking area is located GPS COORDINATES: 38 .64278, -78 .61138 Civil War . Please note: there are several Author of Virginia Road Biking, at the Jawbone Gap Trailhead off stairs at the beginning of the trail which Kevin Watson is a certified League 35 starts at the Forest Service parking Cycling Instructor and tour guide with Crisman Hollow Road in Fort Valley . Discovery Way Trail  GPS COORDINATES: 38 .70896, -78 .55962 This easy 0 .25 mile (one-way) lot at on Rt . 211, 3 .8 Carolina Tailwinds Bicycling Vacations paved  trail educates visitors with signs miles east of New Market . which is a growing regional vacation 30 Veach Gap This GPS COORDINATES: 38 .545, -78 .671 company featuring several tours in the   that discuss the uses of common trees secluded 7 mile hike is located  near found in the forest . The trail begins in Shenandoah Valley . Front Royal, VA . Most of the hike is a the Forest Service parking lot at New gradual ascent through Veach Gap with Market Gap on Rt . 211, 3 8. miles east GUIDED a beautiful overlook and campsite at of New Market . HORSEBACK Touring 877-301-0550 the high point . Take Fort Valley Road to GPS COORDINATES: 38 .641945, -78 .611664 RIDING Veach Gap Road . The parking area is mtntouring.com 36 Offering road and mountain biking tours at the end of the road just before the Strickler Knob  This 38 Fort Valley Ranch 8  in the George Washington National closed gate . 7 mile hike is challenging in places 299 South Fort Valley Road, Fort Valley Forest . By appointment only . Bike GPS COORDINATES: 38 .87618, -78 .37623 with rocky terrain over the last mile, 888-754-5771 | 540-933-6633 but offers some of the best vistas in the rentals are also available . 31 fortvalleystable.com Lake Laura  Mid-Atlantic Region with views of New Guided horseback riding tours over bryceresort.com/lake-laura/  Market Gap, Luray Valley and a 360 scenic wooded mountain trails, Nature-lovers will enjoy the 3-mile degree view from the summit . This trail surrounded by the George Washington hiking trail around the lake throughout is not recommended for those traveling National Forest . 1 ½ hour rides . the year . There is a drive around drop- with children or dogs since it is not a Reservations are strongly suggested . off area located off of Brenda Lane in maintained trail and bushwacking may Fort Valley Ranch also offers on site Basye near Bryce Resort . be necessary . Parking near Scothern bunk houses and cabins for rent . GPS COORDINATES: 38 .798964, -78 .792642 Gap off Crisman Hollow Road . Open year-round . GPS COORDINATES: 38 .66285, -78 .59838

10 VisitShenandoahCounty.com 11 hether you’re looking for primitive campgrounds or a posh glamping experience, Shenandoah County offers several varieties of camping including developed camp sites, primitive camping, glamping Wand even sites suitable for traveling with your own horses. The County is home to four developed campgrounds within the George CAMPING Washington National Forest as well as other privately owned campgrounds each offering an assortment of different amenities. With sites conveniently located off the interstate as well as more remote wilderness destinations, you’ll find something to suit whatever level of adventure you desire.

For camping locations, please refer to the map at the end of this guide.

DEVELOPED CAMP SITES

1 Camp Roosevelt 3 Elizabeth Furnace Camp Roosevelt is appreciated for Recreation Area its camping, picnicking and hiking This site has family and group camping, activities . The family camp has 10 hiking and picnicking, and fishing in campsites and flush toilets . Water nearby Passage Creek . 33 camp sites is available and nearby sanitary available . Amenities include improved waste dumps for camping vehicles campsites with fire rings, picnic tables, with holding tanks . Open spring & warm showers, and restrooms . The summer . For more information on family camp has warm showers and Camp Roosevelt’s unique history flush toilets . No reservations accepted . as the nation’s 1st CCC Camp, visit This area is a first-come, first-served visitshenandoahcounty.com/experience/ area . Open year-round . things-to-do/history/ Directions: Located off Rt . 678 in Fort Also See: Bird Watching: Daughter Valley . There are three entrances, about of the Stars Loop: Camp Roosevelt, a half-mile apart . The first entrance is to page 23 the Group Campground, followed by the Directions: Located off Rt . 675 in Fort entrance to the “Day Use” area (picnic Valley . The camp entrance is on the left . ground), and finally the entrance to the GPS COORDINATES: 38 .733055, -78 .51722 Family (or “overnight”) campground . GPS COORDINATES: 38 .928333, -78 .33 2 Creekside Campground Family owned and operated 4 Little Fort campground featuring RV and tent sites Little Fort is a minimally developed with picnic tables and fire rings . Pets recreation area near a meadow that are permitted on leashes only . Located was once a rest stop for a stagecoach next to Stoney Creek . line . This scenic area features 9 108 Palmyra Road campsites and vault toilets . There is no Edinburg, VA 22824 water available so be sure to bring your 540-984-4299 own water supply . There are nearby off-road trail heads for OHV use in the Tasker’s Gap and Peters Mill Run trail areas . Open year-round . Directions: Located off Rt . 758 in Fort Valley . The camp entrance on left . GPS COORDINATES: 38 .866943, -78 .44444

12 VisitShenandoahCounty.com 13 GLAMPING Cottage on the Seven Bends Near Seven Bends State Park, Cedar Creek & Belle Grove National Historical Park hipcamp.com/virginia/cabin-on-the-seven- bends/cottage-on-the-seven-bends Enjoy this secluded river perch overlooking the North Fork of the Shenandoah River . Provides river access for fishing, swimming, and paddling (kayaks and canoes provided) . Screened cottage with deck . The site is open spring, summer and fall for glampers to explore and adore .

The Dome at Our Farm Strasburg airbnb.com/ rooms/31389726?source_impression_ id=p3_1578086211_3mySjV9uz5qHA7kt Over 800 sqft with an 8 ft tall ceiling at the middle . Equipped with a zipper door and a lock and a canvas cover with windows and screens featuring a large bay window with views of Little North Mountain and a view of the farm . There is a solar exhaust fan, wooden floors and queen bed with linens and casual seating . 5 Camp Shenandoah Meadows PRIMITIVE No electricity or running water and no WIFI . 443 Meadow View Lane, Fort Valley CAMP SITES Solar-powered and battery-powered lights 540-933-6650 are provided . ShenandoahMeadows.net 8 Duncan Knob Hollow A 40 acre, group friendly, recreational Several multi-tent camping sites are facility adjacent to the George accessible via Duncan Knob Hollow Washington National Forest within Fort trail during the winter and late spring Valley . Convenient access to several months . Located near Camp Roosevelt in trailheads throughout the National Forest . Fort Valley . GPS COORDINATES: 38 .69127, -78 .58014 6 Shenandoah Valley Family Campground 9 Kepler Overlook 168 Industrial Park Road, Mt Jackson There are several campsites with perfect 540-477-3080 spots for car-camping and several large ShenandoahFamilyCampground.com camp sites on the banks of Cedar Creek . Family owned and operated, Americans Directions: A 6 .6 mile hike with the with Disabilities Act (ADA) campground trailhead located off Van Buren Road west located less than 1 mile from I-81 of Maurertown . featuring tent sites, RV sites and GPS COORDINATES: 38 .97137, -78 .56316 cabins . Open year-round . Free WIFI and satellite TV, on-site swimming pool and 10 Tuscarora Trail off Little camp store . Sluice Mountain HORSE & MULE CAMPGROUNDS Extensive hiking is required to get to this 7 Wolf Gap Recreation Area camp site . It is located 50 yards from the 11 Fort Valley Ranch This site offers 9 camp sites with access lookout of the Little Sluice Trail on the 540-933-6633 to drinking water and vault toilets . Wolf White Rocks Trail . Great views of White fortvalleystable.com Gap Recreation Area is also the starting Rocks vistas . 24 hour advance reservation required . All rates are for 2 Adults and 2 Children under point for several popular hikes including Directions: The trailhead is located off 18, 1 vehicle, and 1 horse trailer . Extra person: $5/night . Sites range from primitive Big Schloss and Tibbet Knob . Johnstown Road near Zepp . to sites with water and sewer . Visit website for pricing . Primitive Sites-wooded or GPS COORDINATES: 38 .92404, -78 .68949 GPS COORDINATES: 38 .93246, -78 .61782 field (no hook ups) .

14 VisitShenandoahCounty.com 15 he Shenandoah River is one of the few rivers that flow from south to north. Clear water, pleasant scenery, and abundant wildlife make the North Fork through Shenandoah County PUBLIC RIVER a paddler’s dream. However, low flows during the summer Tmonths often require canoeists to walk their boats through shallow ACCESS areas. The scenery is excellent for the entirety of the river’s course, including great views of Massanutten Mountain. The primary navigational hazards on the river are five dams and several low water bridges which can be found on the map.

Please Note: Most of the land adjacent to the North Fork of the Shenandoah River is privately-owned . You may enter and exit the river ONLY at public access sites . Following is a list of public river access locations:

More information please visit visitshenandoahcounty.com/play/outdoor- sports-recreation/public-river-access/

1 North Fork at New Market 3 Route 698/Red Banks Road No boat ramp, hand-launch only . Good No boat ramp . Located on a small gravel for swimming and wading . The parking pull-off north of Mount Jackson where for this access is at the corner of New the road runs alongside the river . Market Depot Rd and Plains Mill Road GPS COORDINATES: 38 .745904, -78 .638616 Follow the path under the bridge to the river . 4 Chapman’s Landing GPS COORDINATES: 38 .651778, -78 .697750 Public concrete boat ramp . Access along Rt . 672 just off Rt .11, two miles north 2 Meems Bottom Bridge of Edinburg . There is plenty of parking Located just south of Mount Jackson in a flat gravel lot . Excellent fishing for off Wissler Road, this site features a smallmouth bass and panfish . PLEASE trail down to the river making it easy NOTE: There is no public access between to carry canoes and kayaks . Parking is Chapman’s Landing and Chapman’s Dam, available and it is a convenient place to located downstream from here . It is not put in canoes . It is about a 10 mile float legal or safe to portage at Chapman’s to Swan Road in Edinburg, which is a Dam, but it is easy to paddle back to long float if the river is low, so plan your Chapman’s Landing to take-out . time accordingly . GPS COORDINATES: 38 .844796, -78 .531375 GPS COORDINATES: 38 .720831, -78 .655139

16 VisitShenandoahCounty.com 17 To learn more about put-ins and take-outs, visit: virginiarivers.org/index.php/shenandoah-river or theswimguide.org

5 Seven Bends State Park/Hollingsworth Road 7 Seven Bends State Park/Lupton Road Cement Board Ramp . From Woodstock, follow Reservoir Road (Rt . 42) east past Cement Boat Ramp . From Woodstock, follow Reservoir Road (Rt .42) east past Rt . 11 . Rt . 11 and turn right onto South Hollingsworth Road Cross the low water bridge Turn left on Water St then turn right on Hollingsworth Road to Lupton Road . Put-in and turn left following signs past Muse Vineyards to Seven Bends State Park . at the low water bridge at the end of Lupton Road This is an ideal take out for those GPS COORDINATES: 38 .8546819, -78 .4915435 putting in at the Hollingsworth side of Seven Bends State Park . GPS COORDINATES: 38 .871601, -78 .492868 6 Strasburg Town Park 295 Park Road, Strasburg 8 Deer Rapids Road Concrete boat launch suitable for canoes, kayaks and very shallow aluminum No boat ramp . This low water bridge with roadside parking provides an easy put-in or boats . This is one of the most family/kid friendly accesses in the Shenandoah take-out via a gravel boat ramp . This is a great launch point for a float to the Strasburg Valley . There is a huge gravel parking lot with port-a-johns next to the river . This Town Park 5 .6 miles downstream and a very scenic float . There is no way to float to is also an excellent place for redbreast sunfish and smallmouth bass fishing . this access point from upstream unless you have permission to access upstream at a Many boaters use this takeout after floating about 5 .6 miles from the Deer private location . Located off Funk Road . Rapids Bridge access point . GPS COORDINATES: 38 .954316, -78 .375538 GPS COORDINATES: 38 .973370, -78 .351313

18 VisitShenandoahCounty.com 19 he Shenandoah River winds its way back and forth over 72 miles through Shenandoah County. Bedrock ledges create a unique fish habitat lending itself for great angling. The North Fork is a relatively narrow, shallow river and is easily Taccessible for wade angling. Excessive nutrients in the watershed promote the growth of algae and aquatic plant vegetation that can become very dense during the summer and fall months and may impede fishing and boating.

Shenandoah County also has over 31 miles of trout streams within the George Washington National Forest. Stocked trout areas include Passage Creek, Peters Mill Creek and Tomahawk Pond.

Fishing in Shenandoah County is permitted in accordance with state FISHING regulations. When on National Forest land, a state fishing license is required as well as a National Forest Stamp and, when in season, a Trout Stamp. For specific information about state licenses HUNTING and regulations, contact the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries at dgif.virginia.gov/fishing. A state fishing license and appropriate stamps may be purchased at many of the local stores in or near the Lee Ranger District. See page 26 for a list of places to purchase licenses and stamps.

Online fishing reports are available at BIRD WATCHING murraysflyshop.com/virginia-fly-fishing-report

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES Murray’s Fly Shop Orndorff’s Rainbow 121 Main Street, Edinburg Trout Farm 540-984-4212 5140 Zepp Road, Maurertown murraysflyshop.com 540-436-3384 This unique fly fishing specialty shop is Open March-September one of the largest and most complete Saturday and Sunday angling shops on the East Coast . Harry 8:00am-5:00pm Murray, author of many books about fishing in the region, offers classes and guide services (reservations required) .

20 VisitShenandoahCounty.com 21 HUNTING Shenandoah County is home to more than 80,000 acres of the George Washington National Forest offering prime hunting opportunities for deer, turkey, duck and bear.

Hunting in Shenandoah County is permitted in accordance with state regulations. When on National Forest lands, a state license is required along with a National Forest Stamp. The National Forest has jagged and uneven boundaries within Shenandoah County and there are areas of private property entirely surrounded by National Forest land. Please use a current National Forest map when hunting and camping along trails to be sure that you remain on government land. Maps are available at the local Lee Ranger District Office or by mail. Please respect the rights of property owners and do not trespass on their land or shoot in the direction of their property For more information including trail maps visit when hunting. Be sure to get permission from landowners before dgif.virginia.gov/vbwt crossing private property to gain access to the National Forest. For specific information about state licenses, stamps and regulations, contact: Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries dgif.virginia.gov. A hunting license and stamp may BIRDWATCHING be purchased at many of the local stores in or near the Lee Ranger District. VIRGINIA BIRDING AND WILDLIFE TRAIL

Mountain Loop: opportunities from a scenic highway Shenandoah County Park or by boat from the Shenandoah River 380 Park Lane, Maurertown itself . The last part of this loop can be 65 .5 acres of mixed woods and fields done completely by canoe or kayak, hosting numerous woodland birds, but please remember to respect local including: indigo bunting, American landowner’s private property as you robin, chipping sparrow, fish crow, enjoy the abundant wildlife along Carolina chickadee, tufted titmouse, the river . Carolina wren, blue jay, northern cardinal, eastern towhee, eastern tiger Lost Shoe Loop: Virginia swallows and red-banded hairstreaks . Museum of the Civil War The mixed deciduous forest also hosts 8895 George Collins Pkwy, New Market several less obvious finds such as white 866-515-1864 bird’s nest fungus, minute cones filled vmi.edu/vmcw with small white spores resembling In May of 1864 Union and Confederate eggs in a bird’s nest . Common whitetail soldiers clashed on the edge of New dragonflies may also be spotted in the Market . The name of this loop trail is neighboring fields . derived from the fact that during the battle many soldiers lost their shoes Daughter of the Stars Loop: in the cornfield’s deep, sticky mud . Camp Roosevelt Today, the cool, clear waters of the Aptly named for the Native American North Fork of the Shenandoah are legend describing the creation of the nearby with attendant herons and wood Shenandoah River and Valley as the ducks, painted turtles and damselflies . place where “the morning stars placed Local brush land and pastures host the brightest jewels from their crowns incandescent indigo buntings and flocks in the river .” Several sites on this loop of synchronized blackbirds that may offer access to the wildlife viewing cloud the horizon .

22 VisitShenandoahCounty.com 23 he Lee Ranger District in Shenandoah County is home to the OHV TRAILS largest OHV complex on public lands in the state of Virginia. Off-highway vehicles (OHVs) include four-wheel drive vehicles, Tmotorcycles, motorbikes, and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs). Lee Ranger District Motorized Trails Peters Mill Run and Taskers Gap trails provide outdoor adventures you will never forget. Zip along this rugged trail system with exciting twists and turns. This is an excursion that is sure to leave you energized and wanting to come back for more!

This OHV trail system is closed to all motorized use beginning in late January through late March for resource protection on the trails during times of freezing and thawing. For additional information call the Lee District office at 540-984-4101.

More information please visit visitshenandoahcounty.com/play/outdoor- sports-recreation/ohv-trails/

PLEASE NOTE: • Permits are required and can • Hunters are allowed to ride on a be purchased at the Lee Ranger motorized OHV trail to campsites District Office or several local along the trail . Weapons may be convenience stores . (see list of transported on an ATV, but they purchase locations on page 26) must be unloaded . Hunters are not permitted to use ATVs anywhere • All riders must wear a helmet at else in the National Forest . all times . • Tread lightly: Remember that • Riders must stay on “V” blazed improper handling of vehicles can trails and be respectful of resources damage these lands . All drivers and neighboring residences . must assume responsibility • Unlicensed vehicles are not for proper off-highway vehicle permitted on developed roads . operation so others may continue to • Riding double is not permitted enjoy the beauty of the forest . • Alcohol is not permitted on • The land surrounding the OHV trail the trails is off-limits . Riders must stay on the trails at all times . Riding up • OHV Trails are open to all trail hillsides, riding on non-motorized users including hikers, bikers, trails, riding on un-blazed forest equestrians, etc . Please exercise roads (whether or not the road proper etiquette and caution . is closed by a locked gate) and • Please shut off engines and remove riding on county and forest roads is helmets when encountering prohibited and subject to a fine . equestrians .

24 VisitShenandoahCounty.com 25 Trail Maps Trail maps are available for download at fs.usda.gov/Internet/ FSE_DOCUMENTS/ fsbdev3_000235.pdf

GPS COORDINATES FOR OHV TRAILS If heading east on Rt. 675 from Edinburg towards Fort Valley, Tasker’s Gap ATV Complex is on your right and Peters Mill Run is on your left.

1 South Peters Mill Run Trailhead - 38 789389,. -78 .518889 2 North Peters Mill Run Trailhead - 38 874,. -78 .439917 3 Edinburg Gap Trailhead - 38 788639,. -78 .439917 4 Taskers Gap Trailhead - 38 .765472, -78 .513667 5 Wagon Road Trailhead - 38 .867611, -78 .443528

SPECIAL NOTE: Woodstock Tower Road is not accessible to trailers, motor homes or RVs due to sharp curves and steep grades . This road is also closed when weather conditions warrant .

PERMITS REQUIRED Permits may be purchased at the following locations:

Big Apple Amoco Family Convenience Store 403 N . Main Street, Edinburg 401 Stoney Creek Boulevard, Edinburg Mon-Sat 4:30am-10:00pm Mon-Fri 7:30am-9:00pm Sun 6:00am-10:00pm Sat-Sun 8:00am-9:00pm Bo’s Xpress/Shell Station Grasshoppers Lawn Care 60 Stoney Creek Road, Edinburg and Repair Open 24 Hours 18719 Old Valley Pike, Edinburg Cook’s Exxon Inc Mon-Fri 8:00am-6:00pm Sat 8:00am-2:00pm 446 W . Reservoir Road, Woodstock Open 24 Hours (Closed Christmas)

By Mail Order forms can be downloaded online at fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/fsbdev3_000197.pdf

26 VisitShenandoahCounty.com 27 BALLOONING Woodstock Hang Gliding Site The Shenandoah Valley may be known GPS COORDINATES: 38 .871959, -78 .447548 for its outstanding scenery but nothing fs.usda.gov/recarea/ beats the views as you float through the gwj/recreation/hiking/ sky in a hot air balloon with dawn or recarea/?recid=74045&actid=50 dusk flights available. Located off Woodstock Tower Road, this challenging site offers spectacular D&D Ballooning views of the Seven Bends of the 540-335-3766 Shenandoah River and lush farmland ddballooning.com below . There is a gravel parking area Seasonal Hot Air Balloon tours of the just before the parking lot for the Shenandoah Valley . Call ahead for Woodstock Tower Trail . reservations . SPECIAL NOTE: Woodstock Tower Road is not accessible to trailers, motor Valley Ballooning homes or RVs due to sharp curves and 540-975-0192 steep grades . This road is also closed AERIAL SPORTS valleyballooning.com when weather conditions warrant . Valley Ballooning is located in Woodstock, VA and offers flights from the heart of the beautiful Shenandoah Valley . Flying over the Shenandoah is truly rewarding and offers SKY DIVING spectacular views . Skydive Shenandoah 57 River Road, New Market 540-740-9312 skydiveshenandoah.com HANG GLIDING Open March–November & PARAGLIDING Reservations are recommended Experience the thrill of flying! Shenandoah County is proud to be home to some of the best hang gliding ZIPLINE and paragliding sites in the Mid- Atlantic Region . Please note, you must ADVENTURE travel with your own equipment . Bryce Resort 1982 Fairway Drive, Basye Capital Hang Gliding & 540-856-2121 Paragliding Association bryceresort.com/zipline-adventure vicepres@chgpa .org Soar high over the trees and slopes chgpa.org of Bryce Resort on the recently Tandem flying is available by re-designed Bryce Resort Zipline appointment . Adventure . Criss-crossing the mountainside on 10 different lines, Edith’s Gap Launch Site the Zipline Adventure cruises above GPS COORDINATES: 38 .725306, -78 .507861 chairlifts over 80 feet off the ground . fs.usda.gov/recarea/ Try to enjoy the view as you fly by at gwj/recreation/hiking/ almost 40 miles per hour . recarea/?recid=80490&actid=50 Perched high on the southeastern slope of the Massanutten Mountain Ridge, gliders can enjoy a bird’s eye view of Page County, The South Fork of the Shenandoah River, and the Shenandoah Valley . Located off Rt . 675 near Camp Roosevelt .

28 VisitShenandoahCounty.com 29 GOLF Bryce Resort 1982 Fairway Drive, Basye 800-821-1444 bryceresort.com 18 hole championship course offering stunning mountain views, tree lined fairways, a tricky creek winding its way across the links . This course offers a challenge to golfers of all levels, especially beginners using the PGA Family Tees . Open year round .

Shenvalee 9660 Fairway Drive, New Market 888-339-3181 GOLF shenvalee.com Featuring a 27-hole PGA golf course with beautifully maintained grounds . Originally opened in 1927, every 18 hole round takes you through two courses with up to six DISC GOLF different combinations including the Miller Course, Olde Course and Creek Course . Fling golf also available on site as well as restaurant and accommodations .

DISC GOLF Bryce Resort 1982 Fairway Drive, Basye 800-821-1444 bryceresort.com This unique 9 hole course starts with a lift ride to the top of the mountain . Play your way back to the base . Open April – September . Shenandoah County Park 380 Park Lane, Maurertown 540-459-6777 shenandoahcountyva.us/parks/locations/shenandoah-county-park/ This park has nature trails, an 18-hole disc golf course, sand volleyball courts, tennis and basketball courts, baseball and softball fields, picnic shelters with grills, and open meadows . The Tuscarora Trail passes through the park as it connects the with other state trails . Swover Creek Farms 4176 Swover Creek Road, Edinburg 540-984-8973 swovercreekfarms.com Beginner to expert courses in beautiful country setting . This 18 hole course is on the site of a farm craft brewery and restaurant . Play a round of golf and relax over a pint and a delicious wood-fired pizza featuring farm fresh ingredients or a homemade pretzel roll . Pet friendly .

30 VisitShenandoahCounty.com 31 Bryce Resort 1982 Fairway Drive, Basye 800-821-1444 | 540-856-2121 bryceresort.com ICE SKATING A perfect way to compliment your stay at Bryce Resort . Skate rentals available on site or bring your own . Tickets are good for 1 hour of access to the rink .

SKIING AND WINTER SPORTS SNOWBOARDING Bryce Resort offers 8 unique trails and 5 lifts (including a high speed quad lift), AT BRYCE RESORT top rated ski and snowboard school and fantastic racing programs .

SNOWSHOEING WITH REV3 ADVENTURES Rev3endurance.com Enjoy winter sunset snowshoe excursions on the mountain at Bryce Resort . Guided trips take approximately 1-1 5. hours . Tickets include all the necessary gear such as snowshoes and headlamps and free hot chocolate or drink at the Copper Kettle upon completion . Sunday evenings, January-February .

32 VisitShenandoahCounty.com 33 STAR TANNERY EXIT 298

EXIT STRASBURG 296

HIKING, BIKING, AND HORSEBACK RIDING 6 3 25 7 68 13 1 Massanutten Trail 21 Bryce Mountain Bike Park 81 2 Signal Knob 22 Stack Rock Trail 15 3 9 10 11 3 Strasburg River Walk 23 Kepler Overlook 8 4 Sulpher Springs Gap Trail 24 Little North Mountain 11 5 Meneka Peak 25 Little Schloss EXIT 6 Mudhole Mountain 26 Laurel Run 291 14 7 Buzzard Rock North 27 Duncan Knob Hollow TOMS 8 Tuscarora/Bear Wallow Trail 28 Kennedy Peak Hike/ BROOK 12 9 Charcoal Trail Stephens Trail 24 29 Kerns Mountain 30 10 Pig Iron Trail 9 MAURERTOWN 11 Sherman Gap Trail 30 Veach Gap 12 Little Passage Creek 31 Lake Laura FORT 2 VALLEY 13 Buzzard Rock 32 Lion’s Tale Trail 4 5 33 14 Massanutten Storybook Trail 23 4 Three Top Mountain 1 15 Tuscarora/Little North Mountain 34 Bird Knob Trail & Emerald Pond 16 16 Woodstock Tower 35 Discovery Way Trail 17 36 Strickler Knob 7 SEVEN BENDS Little Sluice STATE PARK 17 18 Big Schloss/Mill Mountain 37 Wildflower Trail WOODSTOCK 5 EXIT 19 Tibbet Knob 38 Fort Valley Ranch 283 5 20 Falls Ridge Hike 10 CAMPING 25 4 1 Camp Roosevelt 9 Kepler Overlook 7 42 2 Creekside Campground 10 Tuscarora Trail 18 19 3 3 off Little Sluice Elizabeth Furnace Recreation Area 1 EXIT Mountain 2 4 Little Fort 279 11 Fort Valley EDINBURG 38 5 Camp Shenandoah Meadows 4 FORT VALLEY Ranch 11 RANCH 6 Shenandoah Valley 1 26 22 EXIT Family Campground 277 7 Wolf Gap Recreation Area 20 8 Duncan Knob Hollow 32 27 81 28 PUBLIC RIVER ACCESS 1 North Fork at New Market 2 Meems Bottom Bridge 42 EXIT 29 273 3 Route 698/Red Banks Road 3 MOUNT 4 Chapman’s Landing JACKSON 5 Seven Bends State Park/Hollingsworth Road 21 6 BRYCE Strasburg Town Park RESORT 7 Seven Bends State Park/Lupton Road 2 BASYE 11 8 Deer Rapids Road 6 31 EXIT 269 LAKE LAURA QUICKSBURG 33 34 OFF HIGHWAY VEHICLES (OHV) 35 36 42 37 1 South Peters Mill Run Trailhead ORKNEY SPRINGS 2 North Peters Mill Run Trailhead 3 Edinburg Gap Trailhead 4 Taskers Gap Trailhead NEW MARKET EXIT 5 Wagon Road Trailhead 264 NEW MARKET 1 42 AIRPORT 8 GUIDE TO OUTDOOR RECREATION USEFUL TIPS Here are some helpful tips to consider when embarking on our trails and exploring Shenandoah County to enjoy a safe and fun experience: • Cell phone service may be limited in remote areas of the George Washington National Forest and other parts of the county . • Bring plenty of food and water . Dehydration may occur LEAVE NO during any season . • Weather conditions can change quickly and without warning in the mountains . Check the latest forecast, TRACE monitor updates, and be prepared for all possible weather conditions . • Do not litter and leave no trace . Please dispose of any trash, leftover food, etc . in proper receptacles or take it with you upon leaving trails and National Forest land . RESPECT THIS LAND so that future generations • Leave rocks, trees and other natural objects as you find them so that others may enjoy them in the future . may enjoy it also • Never feed animals . Feeding wildlife damages their health, alters natural behaviors, and exposes them to predators and other dangers . back cover

Shenandoah County is home to a number of geocache sites. To see a complete list visit geocaching.com

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