March 2018 - Shenandoah Beerwerks Trail

Knot Your Boots and Hit the Beerwerks Trail: Five Hiking Trail and Brewery Pairings for Spring

Posted on March 29, 2018March 29, 2018

What’s better than spending a lovely spring day hiking to a great view or waterfall? How about following that hike with a cold, relaxing brew at a nearby craft brewery? If this sounds heavenly, you’re in luck. Here are five of Virginia’s best hikes with nearby Shenandoah Beerwerks Trail breweries to make the most out of your day. Please follow the links to Hikingupward.com for detailed trail notes.

Humpback Rocks

15 minutes from Basic City Beer Co.

Humpback Rocks once served as a landmark for wagon trains trying to cross the Blue Ridge in the 1840s. The trailhead for this popular hike is on the Blue Ridge Parkway and not far from I-64. Since the parking lot is usually well-populated, you might have better luck parking at the visitor’s center and strolling to the trailhead through the interpretive farm, which represents the regional architecture of the late 19th century.

The mile to the top is a steep, hard hike. Rocks stud the trail, but you won’t forget you’re close to civilization as there are occasional steps and benches. The beautiful views of the Shenandoah Valley and Shenandoah National Park at the top are worth every step. This spot can score you amazing photographs, but you might have to shoot creatively around other hikers.

The most popular route is only two miles round-trip; however, if you’re looking for something longer, HikingUpward.com suggests adding two additional miles along the Appalachian Trail. The longer hike provides a gradual descent (your quads will thank you) and solitude that the well-traveled up-and-back does not.

Elevation Gain: 800 feet

Time: Allow 2.5 hours for hiking the longer route

Parking: Park at the Humpback Rocks parking area, milepost 6. 37.96846, -78.89656

Crabtree Falls

45 minutes from Shenandoah Valley Brewing Co.

1,200-foot Crabtree Falls, one of the highest vertical-drop cascading waterfalls east of the Mississippi, features five major cascades and many smaller ones. This great hike along and up a waterfall pays off almost immediately. In fact, the first section of the paved, nearly flat trail leads to a viewing platform from which you have an excellent view of the lower part of the falls.

Don’t let the ease of this beginning fool you, though, because from here on out, the trail becomes steep. The switchbacks repeatedly reconnect with the falls, offering the interest of several vantage points and viewing platforms. Steps and railings provide safety in some of the steepest, slipperiest sections. Rest and snack awhile at the large, walled area on top, and take in the rhododendron and the magnificent view of the Tye River Valley. Though it will be tempting to children and photographers, don’t leave the trail to climb on the slippery rocks.

While the up and back might be plenty (3.8 miles), those really wanting to break in their boots, might try the longer route connecting Crabtree Falls with another spectacular hike, Spy Rock (13.9 miles).

Elevation Gain: 1,200 feet
Time: Allow 2.5 hours for hiking up and back
Parking: parking lot with per vehicle fee, VA56. 37.85144, -79.07922

House Mountain

25 minutes from Devils Backbone Outpost Brewery & Tap House

Want a tough hike and the company of a friendly goat? The goat’s company, along with the beauty of the views and the pleasure of the hike itself, is one of the draws of the 8.2-mile House Mountain hike. The hike follows an old Jeep trail up the mountain and splits when you get to the “saddle” between the two peaks. From this spot, which was once a homestead (look for an old structure and some apple trees), you can decide which peak you want to climb, or tackle both.

Big House Mountain’s views look west and to reach it, you’ll cover 1.7 challenging miles and climb 740 feet. The goat, like something out of a fairytale, lives on the 100-foot high cliffs at the peak and will beg for your lunch.

Little House Mountain’s views look northeast, and the trail to the top has only existed for a few years. The hike is 2.6 miles long and a strenuous 940-foot climb. Many people tag both peaks for the full 8.2 miles.

Time: 5.5 hours
Elevation Gain: 2,850 feet
Parking: Limited parking on Saddle Ridge Rd/VA643 between the parking signs. 37.8116, -79.53266

Elliot Knob

30 minutes from Stable Craft Brewing

Itching to climb to the highest point in Augusta County, see spectacular views, and get a chance to frolic in waterfalls, too? Head west from Staunton to George Washington National Forest where the Elliot Knob hike boasts all this and more.

The first part of the hike, featuring a gradual ascent and woodland scenery, follows Falls Hollow Run as it works through the forest. If you want to sack out on a rock or splash in a pool by one of the multiple waterfalls, no one would blame you. The second half, along a fire road, will have your quads crying…in both directions! The summit is open and grassy, and offers wonderful views and a, usually private, place to eat your lunch.

You can combine this with the Chimney Hollow Trail hike to make it longer, but simply hiking up to the peak and back down again is 8.1 strenuous miles. Take plenty of water!

Time: 5.5 hours
Elevation Gain: 2,425 feet
Parking: Park on VA42 at a small turn-in. 38.16125, -79.26927

Hone Quarry

30 minutes from Restless Moons Brewing

Southwest of Harrisonburg in the George Washington National Forest, Hone Quarry Recreation Area offers three hikes of varying difficulty. The shortest option is Hidden Rocks Trail, a moderate 2.5-mile hike following Rocky Run where hikers can enjoy a small pool and waterfall. The trail climbs up Back Mountain to the Hidden Rocks themselves, a popular scene for rock climbers. If you’re lucky, you might spot someone mid-climb.

Time: 2 hours
Elevation Gain:390 feet
Parking: Small parking area on the Hone Quarry Rd. 38.44813, -79.12205

Hone Quarry Ridge (5 miles) begins at Hone Quarry Campground and climbs through white pine and hemlock forests to follow the ridge, offering several nice views. This quiet, peaceful hike is ideal for privacy seekers, though some hikers report overgrowth and bear scat along the ridge. If you’re into geocaching, you might find one or two hidden along this trail. Wear your boots while traversing the rock scrambles on the way down.

Time: 3 hours
Elevation Gain: 1,480 feet
Parking: Hone Quarry Campground 38.46277, -79.13392

Oak Knob (7.9 miles) also begins at the campground and climbs to high ground. It offers two overlooks with beautiful views and lots of opportunities to watch birds, especially heron and kingfishers near the reservoir. This hike has several rock scrambles, and hikers should be careful of their footing. Some hikers suggest hiking the loop clockwise to save the best views for last, though it means a steep climb up a dusty gravel road to start.

Time: 5.5 hours
Elevation Gain: 2,250 feet
Parking: Hone Quarry Campground 38.46277, -79.13392

Please visit 8 Adventures on the Shenandoah Beerwerks Trail for more ways to combine your outdoor experiences with delicious craft beer!

Running and Beer: A Mighty Fine Pairing

Posted on March 1, 2018March 5, 2018

There is no end to the selection of post-run refueling beverages on the market. Many people swear by sports drinks and water, and some prefer chocolate milk and even pickle juice. Still we think MOST would argue that there’s nothing like an icy beer to help a runner relax and refuel after the hard miles. What better way to enjoy that beer than to gather at a Shenandoah Beerwerks brewery with friends? Our breweries agree and are now holding great beer and running events.

Here’s a sampling of our local beer runs:

For the Hard-Core Runner:

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March marks the kick-off of Stable Craft Brewing’s Flight Sessions, a series of five new races, each coupled with the release of a brand-new Wilderness Series beer. Finishers get to be the first to try the new releases. Each race will feature two options for runners: If you’re into stiff competition and want a shot at some prize money at the end of the series, opt for the six-mile challenge. Cash rewards will go to the man and the woman who can outpace the field. If you’re in the mood for a more relaxed distance and pace, try the three-mile fun run option. Both events will get you out in the beautiful countryside and are sure to get you warmed up for the Wilderness Series beer release waiting for you at the finish line. Click here to sign up!
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March 10: Bear Den Dash
April 14: Turk Mountain Trot
May 5: Mad Lick Lope
June 2: Sawmill Ridge Run
July 14 : Stony Ridge Race

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For the Social Runner

If you’re the type of person who loves a regular run coupled with a social experience and great beer, Brothers Craft Brewing’s monthly Run, Sweat, and Beers sessions will be a perfect fit for you. The free and friendly events will be held the fourth Friday of every month at 5:30 p.m. Runs will start and finish at Brothers. 1-mile, 3-mile, and 5-mile course options are available. Relax after your run with discounted beer in the tasting room. Click here for more information.

March 30th
April 27th
May 25th (special edition: Run or Bike, Sweat, & Beers)
June 22nd
July 27th

For Those Who Run, Think, and Drink Best in Pairs:

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Catch the bus at Pale Fire Brewing to take you to Pound the Peak, a race completed with a partner. During a steep 2.1-mile climb to the top of Massanutten, you will stop twice for less physical and more cerebral challenges on the way up. Let your body rest while your brain takes on the heavy lifting. This race is tough, but it’s also a great way to bond – both with your partner and with your competition. When you finally make it to the peak, enjoy the amazing views and then take a scenic ride to the bottom on the ski lift. Once on flat ground, the bus turns into a party and racers ride back to the brewery sampling Pale Fire’s best with new and old buddies. Continue the party at Pale Fire Brewing’s tap room. All abilities welcome. Click here to sign up!

May 12. Registration opens on March 4. Register early because the event sells out quickly.

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For the Runner Who Enjoys a Steep Climb

Want a challenging run, a post-race party, swag, and the thrilling feeling that comes from supporting the community? Set your sites on the Basic City Burn. This 3-mile race starts at Basic City Beer Co. and climbs a steep 300-feet (over asphalt, gravel, and trails) to the future site of Sunset Park, the highest point in Waynesboro. The Park, still under development on the site of what used to be Waynesboro’s municipal landfill, will include over 200 acres of forest, hiking, and biking trails as well as open spaces for enjoying spectacular views of the Valley, and as the name suggests, the sunset. The midpoint of the race offers a 360-degree view of the Shenandoah Valley. After admiring the scenery (and resting their quads) at the top, runners will head back down the trails and race to the brewery where a post-race party, awards ceremony, and plenty of Basic City beer awaits them. Runners can listen to live music and purchase food from Hops Kitchen. A portion of the race’s proceeds will benefit the development of the Park. Here’s the link to sign up.

September 22

Yoga

Posted on March 1, 2018March 1, 2018

Beer Yoga Brings Peace to the Valley

Have you ever noticed how much you enjoy a beer after a relaxing yoga session? The mindfulness practiced in yoga helps you focus on the pleasure of drinking. The alcohol can even help new yogis feel less self conscious about their practice. Several Shenandoah Beerwerks Trail® breweries are partnering with local yoga studios to help yoga and beer aficionados combine these activities and reach their higher states of being. Participants will take part in a yoga class and then retire to the brewery with their classmates.

Here are a few beer yoga events coming up soon.