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Mathews Arm - Elkwallow Wayside

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Highlights:

Great views of Knob Mountain, spring/source for Jeremys Run
Near:Luray, VA
Scenery:
Distance:4.76 miles round trip
Elevation Gain:1200 ft
Hike Time:3 hours
Difficulty:Moderate
Trail Condition:Well maintained trail
HikeType:Loop



Summary:  This hike uses the Knob Mtn Trail and the Elkwallow Trail to make a pleasing circuit between Mathews Arm Campgournd and Elkwallow Wayside. The Wayside has a cafeteria, snack bar, camp store, and gift shop, and is open from mid-April to the end of October.
Trailhead:  0.2 miles south of MP 22 is Mathews Are Campground. Descend 0.7 miles to campground registration station. Turn right just beyond station and go 0.1 miles into parking lot. Trail begins in northeast corner of the lot. (Lat:38.7603 Lon:-78.2968)
Trail Guides for Mathews Arm - Elkwallow Wayside:
Circuit Hikes in Shenandoah National Park
by Potomac Appalachain Trail Club  (PATC)

Best Seasons: Year-Round
User Groups: Hikers, Dogs,
Ranger Contact: US Forest Service 1-540-999-3500
Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by Joe Cross, who has posted  56 other hikes on this site
Trail Reviews  Submit your own review
Reviewed by KMD on 6/20/2009
Awesome trail. It is very isolated, and the waterfalls are beautiful. We saw 3-5 bears on the trip. 2 cubs went scurrying up a tree as their mom faced us down at about 20-25 yards. Bring all the bear gear to deal with them, and be loud on the trail to scare them off. Great hike otherwise though. There are dear, snakes, turkeys and everything you can find in the park. I recommend it. The elevation is not to bad either.

Reviewed by Viewer on 8/4/2007
Very pleasant hike. However, saw a bear club climbing a tree on the Knob Mountain portion of the hike and found several droppings along the trail. I agree that it must be the food around the campsite.

Reviewed by BW on 1/23/2006
Also saw a bear with her cub. Must be the food at the campground.

Reviewed by Jay on 9/7/2005
Hiked from Mathews Arm campground, picking up old Fire road and then along Knob Hill. Saw three bears on this trail! First bear I have encountered on a trail in SNP. Relatively easy walk and had an enjoyable hike with another camper and her dog. Ends up passing Elkwallow rest area and then a 2 mile trip through the woods back to the campground. Several stream crossings provide waterbreaks for "Scout" and a brief respite for the walkers.


Notice: Traveling in the backcountry can be hazardous. You are responsible for informing yourself about these hazards and taking necessary precautions. Information on this web site comes from volunteer reporters and may contain errors or omissions. A current guidebook and proper equipment are essential for safe enjoyment of the hikes posted on this site.
Keys: Virginia Hiking, Virginia Trails, Virginia Hikes, Page County Hiking, Page County Trails, Page County Hikes


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