Bearfence Mountain Trail

Hike #1: Bearfence Rock Scramble

Distance: 1-mile lariat
Difficulty: moderate
Duration: 1 hour
Elevation Gain: 311-feet

This hike includes a rock scramble, which means you'll be pulling yourself up, over, and between boulders, using your feet and hands. Cross Skyline Drive and climb the stairs up the bank. At the trail post, continue straight ahead on Bearfence Loop Trail. After the rock scramble, turn right onto the connector trail. Go right on the Appalachian Trail north. At the intersection, turn left and return to the parking lot.

Hike #2: Bearfence Viewpoint

Distance: 1.1-mile round trip
Difficulty: easiest
Duration: ¾ hour
Elevation Gain: 305-feet

This route eliminates the rock scramble from the hike. Cross Skyline Drive and climb the stairs up the bank. At the trail post, turn right onto the Appalachian Trail (A.T.) south. Go left on the connector trail, then turn right on Bearfence Loop Trail. You'll see the viewpoint on your right. Retrace your steps to the starting point.