Bearfence Rock Scramble
An exposed hand-and-foot rock scramble to a 360-degree Blue Ridge and Shenandoah Valley panorama.
Route overview
Bearfence Rock Scramble in Virginia.
The official circuit climbs Bearfence Loop Trail through the rock scramble, then returns by connector and Appalachian Trail north.
Trail facts
- Country
- United States
- Region
- Virginia
- Distance
- 2.25 km
- Typical duration
- 60-120 minutes
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Elevation gain
- 95 m
- Best season
- Check current official seasonal access and conditions
- Trail type
- circuit
Access and logistics
- Permits and access
- Entrance pass required; no separate ordinary day-hike reservation.
Safety context
Do not attempt when wet or icy or with a serious fear of heights. Three-point contact, suitable footwear, and disciplined spacing are essential. Check current official conditions, closures, weather and access rules before departure.
Do not attempt when wet or icy or with a serious fear of heights. Three-point contact, suitable footwear, and disciplined spacing are essential.
Highlights
Bearfence scramble, rock scramble, exposure, 360 view, no dogs
Why find a buddy
Match only partners who explicitly accept exposure, scrambling, no-pet rules, and weather-dependent cancellation.
Explore and prepare
Discover hikes by intent, read the hiking guides, review hiking safety, prepare a BuddyPack, or browse hiking plans.
Route conditions, access, services and transport can change. Verify time-sensitive information before departure.