Hazel River- White Rocks Trail - August 11, 2015

At the White Rocks - Dave, Irene, Kelly, Michael, and Lynn in front with Anne, Pete, and Bev in the back

     We lucked out on a day that had looked like rain as it ended up being bright and right for hiking.  Nine hikers ventured north to the Shenandoah National Park, although we came into the park from the valley trailhead at Rt. 600 near Sperryville.  Our 10.46 mile route encompassed a loop starting from the Hazel River Trail, to White Rocks Trail, connecting to the Catlett Spur and Catlett Mountain Trail, and returning to the parking area via the Sam's Ridge Trail. Hikers included Dave Borszich, Anne Colgate, Irene Burke, Kelly O'Rourke, Michael Seth, Lynn Dawson (newcomer and pilot extraordinaire), Bev Fink, and hike leaders, Pete Fink and Marit Anderson. The route provided plenty of exertion with 2,700 ft elevation gain, although Marit and Kelly had different GPS data....we are going with Marit's GAIA figures, as she was the hike leader!  The scenery was also wonderful including the beautiful Hazel River and waterfalls, a cool cave, colorful butterflies, interesting flora, some views atop Hazel Mountain, and enough ups and downs to keep us watching our footing.  We also had six fun river crossings...many resorted to just walking through the water since it is so much easier and lovely during warm weather. We finished up after 6 hours of walking and all agreed that it was a fine hike indeed.

Dave and Kelly keep their feet dry this time

Lynn and Marit hold up the rocks at the cave entrance

Michael and Marit can't resist a swim at the falls

Hazel River Falls

Red Indian pipe stems

Dave admires the lovely Hazel River

The view from the top of Hazel Mountain

Some of the beautiful beings we encountered

submitted by Marit Anderson