Big Run Loop, Shenandoah National Park

On a sunny — but not deathly because mountains 💞 — day at the end of July, we set out upon Big Run Loop. Avoiding the covid crowds, we started around 9am and succeeding in seeing few people.

We did Big Flat Mountain Loop the same day, so you see both in the map below.

Total distance: 5.01 mi
Max elevation: 2889 ft
Min elevation: 1713 ft
Total climbing: 1883 ft
Total descent: -1926 ft
Average speed: 2.58 mi/h
Total time: 02:32:25

But first, Rocky Top Overlook.

We were determined to be touristy today. All scenic pullovers were considered.

The trail begins in woods, on a slope thick with verdant fernage.

An easy river crossing.

Then grass takes over as the undergrowth of choice.

Followed by lunch, back at Rocky Top Overlook. Green mountain majesty indeed.

Stats

Distance5.7 miles
Elevation Gain1072 feet
Moving Time2 hours, 45 minutes
Total Time2 hours, 45 minutes
Average Pace28 minutes per mile / 2.2 mph

Equipment

PackCamelBak Aventura hydration pack
NavigationPhone 6 with AllTrails Pro
ShoesHoka One One Challenger ATR 5 trail running shoes
Used Poles?No
ClothesSocks: Injinji Trail Midweight Mini Crew Toesocks
Bottom: quick dry running shorts
Shirt: short sleeve wicking tee

Recording

https://www.alltrails.com/explore/recording/big-flat-mountain-loop-via-appalachian-trail-8a36dfc

See my current gear, clothing, and thoughts about it on the Hiking Gear page.