Trails around Sherando Lake, C-ville, etc?

[little_joe]

Hi VA Guys, a few of us from NC are heading up to Sherando Lake this weekend and I was wondering if you had any guidance on legal, open trails?

I understand Shoe Creek is very easy. Last year we found some legal, open forest service roads around Big Level that were fun to drive. Is there anything else in the area we should check out?

We're not heading over to the west side of the valley on this trip; and generally we intend to take it easy this trip anyway. But we'd still like to hit any trails in the area.

Many thanks! (Hi to the Bascom's and JohnS if you read this!)

 

[Devilmans Hand]

I'd like to know of any other trails as well. There are a few private trails out by Winchester.
Might be something out towards aldie and middleberg.

 

[StaleAle]

Hey Joe, we have several John S's in the area...no tellin' who will respond. I'd ask H2O or Van Hayek about wheeling in GMNF. I think they've done some exploring out that way. Bob may know of a trail or two as well.

I've heard there have been closures at Salt Shed due to local bozo's doing donuts in a freshly planted tree restoration area. Not sure how wide spread the closures have been as a result.

Have fun!

Jon S.

 

[76FJ40]

Joe, long time no see!

I haven't been to Shoe Creek in a few years but all that's still accessible is basically a dirt road, about as challenging as Big Levels. I was at GWNF a year or so ago and the back entrance to Second Mountain was still open as was Dictum Ridge (these are marked on the Gazeteer). There are also some trails (dirt roads) at Peters Mill farther north off of 81.

Good luck,


Bob

 

[jcj_78FJ40]

When you were at big levels did you find the trail that goes from the Coal rd. up to the BR parkway? I believe most maps have it as Bald Mountain Jeep Trail.

Other than that, Shoe Creek is about it unless there is something going on at Crozet this weekend.

If you do go to Shoe Creek, there is a short hiking trail that goes to the top of crab tree falls from the parking area. Excellent views if you have never been

 

[jcj_78FJ40]

You might be in luck if your looking to break somthing

https://forum.ih8mud.com/va-nc-mid-...ciation/394452-crozet-july-17-18-aug-7-a.html

 

[little_joe]

Hi Bob, it has indeed been a while! I hope you and the family are doing well! I've been in NC for 4+ yrs now and love it; as a bonus I get to hang out w/ Allen.

I kinda figured there wasn't much around Sherando, just thought I'd ask. We did run one trail in Big Levels (in pouring rain) that was fun, and one guy from the area told us there are numerous trails through there. I suppose it's worthwhile to drive around and check things out.

We'll pass on Crozet this time, someone else brought that up. Heading over to Second Mtn and Dictum may be back on the agenda. And we definitely plan on hiking up Crabtree Falls. Are there other waterfalls in the area that are worth visiting? Also, any forest fire lookout towers we can climb?

Many thanks guys! If we can ever return the favor here in NC, just say the word.

(O and I meant John Smith.)

 

[76FJ40]

There's a fire lookout tower near Peters Mill trail near Edinburgh.

 

[John Smith]

Hi VA Guys, a few of us from NC are heading up to Sherando Lake this weekend and I was wondering if you had any guidance on legal, open trails?

I understand Shoe Creek is very easy. Last year we found some legal, open forest service roads around Big Level that were fun to drive. Is there anything else in the area we should check out?

We're not heading over to the west side of the valley on this trip; and generally we intend to take it easy this trip anyway. But we'd still like to hit any trails in the area.

Many thanks! (Hi to the Bascom's and JohnS if you read this!)

Hey Joe! Been a long time; glad to hear NC is treating you well. I believe that the city of Harrisburg shut down the loop trails along 33 and Second MTN could be gated. I would stick with Shoe Creek and hike the falls there.

 

[jcj_78FJ40]

FYI- If you take 664 (reeds gap rd.) up and over the mountain, there is a nice micro brewery / restaurant at the bottom of the other side before you hit Rt 151.

It's a very cool building constructed out of recycled materials. Good eats, drinks and music.
Devils Backbone Brewing Company

 

[jmvar]

I have been to one of these events and they are great.

Well organized with knowledgeable guides and trails for everyone. Stockers will have to take bail out lines but will still have fun.

I can't comment on the camping because I only went for 1 day.

If you will be around Sherando and like to ride mountain bikes, bring them. The place is epic.

You might be in luck if your looking to break somthing

https://forum.ih8mud.com/va-nc-mid-...ciation/394452-crozet-july-17-18-aug-7-a.html