In addition to world-class beer along the Beerwerks Trail, there are countless reasons to visit the Shenandoah Valley. One of the biggest draws is the great outdoors. Read on for a roundup of hiking, paddling, and cycling best bets, each within a short distance of a Beerwerks brewery.

Hikers

Step outside in our neck of the Shenandoah Valley and you’re likely to trip over a trailhead. With Shenandoah National Park to our east and the George Washington and Jefferson National Forest all around us, your options are unlimited. Here are a few of our favorites within an easy drive of a Shenandoah Beerwerks Trail brewery.

Humpback Rocks

30 minutes from Stable Craft Brewing

The short (2 miles round trip), steep Humpback Rocks

hike will get your blood pumping. And from the open, rocky top, you can see for miles up and down the Valley. If you’re looking for something longer, you can add two additional miles along the Appalachian Trail, which will provide a gradual descent and solitude that the well-traveled up-and-back does not. This popular hike includes a stroll through an interpretive farm, representing the regional architecture of the late 19th century.

Crabtree Falls

45 minutes from Skipping Rock Beer Company

1,200-foot Crabtree Falls, is one of the highest vertical-drop cascading waterfalls in the East. The first portion of the trail is paved for universal access, and the incredible views of the lower part of the falls start almost immediately. The ease of the beginning gives way to steep switchbacks repeatedly reconnecting with the falls, and offering several vantage points and viewing platforms. Rest and snack at the top, taking in the magnificent view of the Tye River Valley. 

Hone Quarry

30 minutes from Restless Moons Brewing

Southwest of Harrisonburg in the George Washington National Forest, Hone Quarry Recreation Area 0ffers 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. Hone Quarry Ridge (5 miles) climbs through white pine and hemlock forests to follow the ridge, offering several nice views. Oak Knob (7.9 miles) also climbs to high ground. It offers two overlooks with beautiful views and opportunities to watch birds.

South River Greenway

10 minutes from Seven Arrows Brewing

The South River Greenway trail system will one day connect Waynesboro’s Constitution Park with Ridgeview Park and eventually the Crozet Tunnel. For now, the trail stretches for 1.2 miles along the South River and connects Constitution Park with the YMCA. The short walk (or bike ride with your young kids!) is flat and paved, and the scenery provides interest as it varies from river to industrial to park. Make sure you bring your binoculars and look for birds. You can park at either end of the Greenway.

Elliot Knob

50 minutes from Three Notch’d Valley Collab House

Itching to climb to the highest point in Augusta County, see spectacular views, and get a chance to frolic in waterfalls? Located in George Washington National Forest, the Elliot Knob hike boasts all this and more. Early on, the hike ascends gradually along Falls Hollow Run as it works through the forest. The second half, along a fire road, will make your quads cry! The summit is open and grassy, and offers wonderful views and a private place to eat your lunch.

For more great hikes, visit Knot Your Boots and Hit the Beerwerks Trail.

Paddlers

The Valley is rich in aquatic resources, from placid mountain lakes to white water dashing through mountain passes. Load up your boat and chase the perfect paddle.

Upper James River Water Trail

20 minutes to Great Valley Farm Brewery

The Upper James River Water Trail stretches along 64 miles of the James River as it winds through Rockbridge and Botetourt Counties. This area is perfect for canoeing, kayaking, tubing, and fishing, and has been designated a Virginia Scenic River. The Department of Game and Inland Fisheries operates 12 public access points with free parking. Rapids vary and can reach class III at normal water levels.

Sherando Lake Recreation Area

35 minutes to Bedlam Brewing

Get ready to float your kayak or canoe on 25-acre Sherando Lake this fall. Nicknamed the Jewel of the Blue Ridge, the lake will please visitors who want to boat, swim, fish, or hike. Paddle to the island, or hop out of your boat and wade from the sandy beach. The recreation area offers bathroom and shower facilities, a picnic area, a campground, and plenty of parking. Day use fee applies.

Lake Shenandoah

20 minutes to Brothers Craft Brewing

Located just outside the City of Harrisonburg, Lake Shenandoah is a good option for easy paddling and a quiet day on the water. The shallow (under three feet) 36-acre lake features a parking lot and a paved boat ramp. The lake is a good spot to watch migrating waterfowl. It’s also home to numerous year-round avian residents, and pollinator insect species like Monarch butterflies can be seen along its shores. No motorized engines, swimming or wading allowed.

Goshen Pass

45 minutes to Shenandoah Valley Brewing Co.

Goshen Pass, where the Maury River cuts through Little North Mountain, is one of the most popular sites for catching whitewater in Virginia. This beautiful six-mile trip includes powerful class II, class III, and even named class IV rapids like Corner Rapid and Devil’s Kitchen. To stretch out your day, tie up your kayak and take a hike or explore the boulderscape scattered in the riverbed.

Waynesboro Water Trail

5 minutes to Basic City Beer Co.

Want to paddle through town? The Waynesboro Water Trail, part of the longer South River Blueway, meanders along four picturesque miles of the South River from the Ridgeview Park Boat Ramp to the Basic Park Boat Ramp. Easy-access boat ramps and mild class I and class II rapids are great for beginners. The water trail offers paddlers views of the city’s residential, industrial, commercial, and recreational zones. 

Need more places to launch your kayak? Want information on guided floats? Check out Beautiful Waters: Paddling and Water Sports along the Beerwerks Trail.

Cyclists

Fall is an incredible season to tour the valley on your bike, pumping your legs and breathing in the colors of the changing leaves. Here’s a mix of mountain and road biking adventures.

Chessie Nature Trail

5 minutes from Devils Backbone Outpost Tap Room & Kitchen

Originally a railroad bed for the Chesapeake & Ohio Railroad, the flat Chessie Nature Trail stretches for 7.2 miles between Lexington and Buena Vista and is great for riders of all ages and abilities. The route has parking at both ends and can be completed as a longer out-and-back ride. It follows the Maury River and the rural surroundings alternate between wooded areas and farmland. The final mile near Buena Vista parallels a cliff along the river. Look for cows and wildlife along the way.

Rocktown Trails at Hillandale Park

10 minutes from Pale Fire Brewing

If you’re looking to give your mountain bike a workout in downtown Harrisonburg, check out Rocktown Trails at Hillandale Park. The park’s system of stacked-loop, single track trails offers three levels of difficulty for riders. The trails, cared for by the Shenandoah Valley Bike Coalition, stay in great shape and feature man-made and natural obstacles. Be prepared to share this popular area with hikers and runners.

Montgomery Hall Park

5 minutes from Queen City Brewing

Riders looking for thrills in Staunton need go no further than Montgomery Hall Park, which boasts 4.1 marked miles of single track. The twisting trails offer switchbacks and roots as well as steep drops and climbs. There’s not much in the way of rock obstacles, but you can still get plenty dirty here. Since the trails are maintained by Staunton Parks and Recreation as well as local riders, they stay in excellent condition.

The Southern Traverse

55 minutes from The Friendly Fermenter

Hard-core mountain bikers rave about The Southern Traverse, a 36-mile ride through George Washington National Forest. This route will blast you with over 3,000 feet of elevation gain, much of it in the first four blistering miles. Once you summit Shenandoah Mountain, there’s an incredible 11-mile single track ride along the ridge, several extremely technical rocky areas, and a thrilling five-mile section that descends over 1,100 feet. The final section of the route follows rolling country roads.

Staunton Frog Pond Smoky Row

1 minute from Redbeard Brewing Company

Road bikers looking for an intermediate ride should try the 22-mile Staunton Frog Pond Smoky Row route. It starts in Staunton at Black Dog Bikes, but quickly leaves to embrace the rolling hills and spectacular scenery west and south of town. The loop offers sustained climbs, downhill glides, and recovery sections. The ride, which is entirely on paved roads, concludes back in Staunton.

If you can’t get enough biking the Valley, read Bike the Valley, Brake for Brews for additional options.

Some Upcoming Events

September 21, Lexington: Nasty 9 Trail Run at Brushy Hills. There’s also a 4-mile version of this challenging trail run.

September 28, Waynesboro: The Coyner Springs Kite Fly is an old-fashioned celebration featuring kite races, apple slinging, hay rides, and more.

September 28, Waynesboro: The Chili, Blues, n’ Brews festival celebrates good food, good music and good beer.

September 27-29, Staunton: The Queen City Mischief and Magic festival celebrates all things magical in downtown Staunton.

September 29, Harrisonburg: Alpine Loop Gran Fondo bike race. Events are happening throughout that weekend.

October 12, Waynesboro: Enter the annual Fall Foliage 5k & 10k race/walk to explore the neighborhoods and parks of Waynesboro.

October 12-13, Waynesboro: Artists at the SVAC Fall Foliage Art Show show off their works against the backdrop of downtown Waynesboro.

October 19, 2019, Lexington: Chessie Trail Half Marathon and 5K. This flat trail race hugs the Maury River between Lexinton and Buena Vista.

October 18-20, 2019, Staunton: Shenandoah Fall Foliage Bike Festival will offer mapped and supported riding opportunities for all abilities.

Along Virginia’s Shenandoah Beerwerks Trail, you can taste some of the best craft beer in the country. While a lot goes into creating the perfect brew in the most interesting surroundings, there’s sometimes even more work put into coming up with the perfect beer name … something that piques interest and makes visitors want to take a taste.

Here’s a look into the stories behind some of the craziest beer names in Shenandoah Valley. Cheers!

Brehfuss

The Friendly Fermenter | Harrisonburg, Virginia

Newly released “Brehfuss,” a blonde coffee stout, was born out of owner Shawn Gatesman’s desire to experiment with blonde-colored beer with stout-like characteristics. This first attempt was inspired by how Gatesman likes his morning coffee – with vanilla – so he thought the name needed a breakfast theme. For him, there was only one choice. When Shawn was a kid, he idolized his Uncle Eddie, who loved the outdoors – particularly fishing and hunting. When Uncle Eddie came from Pittsburgh to hunt, he stayed with Shawn’s family. Early in the morning he would come to the kitchen, before he put in his dentures, and ask Shawn’s mom, “Jeanie, what ya cookin’ for brehfuss?” Shawn says this is how “breakfast” sounds without your teeth in … or least that’s how he remembers it. So “Brehfuss” was born, and is easily one of the brewery’s most popular beers. The Friendly Fermenter is Harrisonburg’s first brew-on-site brew shop and nanobrewery.

Azeotrope IPA

Seven Arrows Brewing Company | Waynesboro, Virginia

This lager-forward brewery’s name – Seven Arrows – references the creator, the earth, the four directions, and back to the creator. It all comes together with the logo of the compass rose signifying the four directions and the four main ingredients of beer. One of 12 true-to-style beers on tap, Azeotrope is inspired by the fruity and juicy characteristics of the New England Style IPA – bursting with hop flavor and aromas of grapefruit, passion fruit, and stone fruit. Its name spurs from Azeotrope’s very definition – a mixture of two liquids that has a constant boiling point and composition throughout distillation.

Cattywompus

Devils Backbone Outpost Tap Room & Kitchen | Lexington, Virginia

The flagship Devils Backbone Brewing Company in Roseland, Virginia, was such a success that it required an outpost facility to keep up with production. And at that outpost they’re all about brewing true-to-style beers that focus on the tasty traditions of Germany, England and Belgium. Cattywompus, a Belgian-inspired IPA with tropical, pineapple and hop notes, brings and melds’ different and at times dissimilar flavors and techniques together in a wonderfully crazy manner. Cattywompus, which means “askew or crooked,” is a term that was often used by brewery founder Steve Crandall, who’s a builder by trade. The name of the beer changed twice before Crandall settled on Cattywompus. He thought that with the unpredictable nature of the beer and the rigmarole of finding a new name, Cattywompus seemed to be the perfect fit. 

Tommy Two Fists

Devils Backbone Outpost Tap Room & Kitchen | Lexington, Virginia

Tommy Two Fists is a derivation on a beer that was first brewed in Alexandria, Virginia, in 1999. It was then called Mickie Two Fists and was a gourmet malt liquor. The style was later changed to an export lager with bread, smooth and biscuity notes. The name was also changed to Tommy Two Fists because the brewers felt people would want to drink at least two of them in a row. You can do so here in the Outpost Tap Room & Kitchen, which is located on a beautiful hillside with the Blue Ridge serving as a backdrop.

Britchin Brown

Stable Craft Brewing | Waynesboro, Virginia

Stable Craft Brewing is a working horse farm that also grows its own Cascade and Nugget hops. Britchin Brown is Stable Craft’s flagship, award-winning American Brown. In the horse world, a britchin strap is a piece of tack; its function is to keep a saddle in place when stopping and going down hills. The beer has a dark brown hue brought on by roasted malts and finishes with a slightly sweet, chocolatey, and nutty profile. Britchin Brown is distributed in the markets of Harrisonburg, Charlottesville, Waynesboro, and Staunton, Virginia, with plans to be available in other markets in the near future.

FUmpkinstein and Madracula Blood Orange IPA

Stable Craft Brewing | Waynesboro, Virginia

Stable Craft Brewing invites guests to relax and sample 16 beers in its tap room. But two seasonal Halloween varieties are designed to put you just a little on edge. FUmpkinstein is a variation on the brewery’s FUmpkin Ale, but it brings that familiar pumpkin beer up a notch with notes of spicy rye, oak, and vanilla to complement the seasonal spices. Briefly aging in rum barrels with the addition of a gratuitous amount of blood orange spins this IPA into a new monster. Madracula Blood Orange IPA has notes of spun sugar, rum and tropical guava with a punch of blood orange. Both beers are available in limited bottle release in the tap room starting September 25. Beware, though: these seasonal favorites are sure to give you goosebumps.

Brewer’s Name: Ben Trumbo

How long have you worked at the brewery? I’ve been here since the beginning. I had been talking with our founder, Tim Brady, about joining the team when he was still putting together investors. Having grown up near Roanoke, I was really excited about being able to come back to Virginia to pursue this career.

How did you get involved in brewing? While I was living in St. Louis, a buddy gave me a homebrewing kit as a wedding present. While my first few batches were total disasters, I stuck with it (in no small part due to Charlie Papazian’s mantra: Relax, Don’t Worry, Have a Homebrew!), and was able to gain confidence in my process & knowledge. I decided I wanted to see what it would be like to do it for a living, and emailed some local breweries about possible opportunities. One had an internship program in place, and I signed on to clean kegs, and do pretty much whatever they needed done on any given day. From there, I took classes through the Siebel Institute in Chicago, and worked so I would be able to say “yes” when an opportunity to work for a brewery like Pale Fire arose.

What’s something people don’t know about your brewery? Most of us here are unabashed geeks, and there are signs of our nerdery all over the brewery. Some more obvious than others…

What’s your favorite food and beer combo? Harrisonburg provides for a wide range of adventurous pairings. Between all of our great restaurants and breweries, it’s pretty hard to nail down one favorite combo (and that’s before you head down to the farmer’s market, & start making your own magic!). That said, La Morena’s chorizo tacos and a cold Deadly Rhythm Pale Ale are not to be missed.

What is your favorite thing to do in the Shenandoah Valley? Like most people, I love all of the outdoor opportunities available year round in the Valley. One of my favorites, though, has always been going to Hull’s Drive-In Theater in Lexington. They re-opened when I was in high school, and it immediately became my favorite way to see movies.

What’s the best way to spend time outdoors in the Shenandoah Valley? On one of our fine breweries’ patios, beer in hand!

Head Brewer: Nathan Bailey, Assistant Brewer: Kevin Jones

How long have you operated the brewery? We’ve been open two and a half years

How did you get involved in brewing? Like many people in the industry, I was a homebrewer before opening our brewery.  It was a hobby that turned into a business.

What’s something people don’t know about your brewery? Many people don’t know that we also have a 6-acre vineyard on our farm.  We will begin wine production this year with sales to follow in 2020.

What’s your favorite food and beer combo? Pizza and beer.  A favorite pairing would be our Farmhouse Ale with a prosciutto and spinach pizza.

Tell us about your pets:  We have two cats (Jerry and Captain).  You might see either of them hanging around outside at the brewery trying to get patrons to pet them.  They like to terrorize the dogs at the brewery too.

What is your favorite thing to do in the Shenandoah Valley? Taking a hike or floating on one of the area rivers and then heading out to one of the other great breweries on the Beerwerks Trail.  

What’s the best way to spend time in the outdoors in the Shenandoah Valley? I would say spending time floating on one of the beautiful rivers (James or Maury) is a great way to spend the day in our area.

Spring is here, and if you’ve been itching to get back on the water, it’s time to break out your paddling gear. Whether it’s a glide on a calm lake with the kids or a heart-pounding dash through whitewater, we have an adventure for you. Make sure to spend the final leg of your adventure at a Beerwerks Trail brewery.

Lakes

Douthat State Park

45 minutes to Great Valley Farm Brewery.

Even if you don’t have your own gear, you can get in on the water fun at Douthat State Park. The park rents out canoes, paddle boats, stand-up paddleboards, and hydrobikes from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Along with the 50-acre lake for paddling and swimming, this beautiful and historic park offers trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, as well as playgrounds, a restaurant, and facilities for overnight lodging.

Sherando Lake Recreation Area

25 minutes to Seven Arrows Brewing.

Get ready to float your kayak or canoe on 25-acre Sherando Lake this summer. Nicknamed the Jewel of the Blue Ridge, the lake will please visitors who want to boat, swim, fish, or hike. Paddle to the island, or hop out of your boat and wade from the sandy beach. The recreation area offers bathroom and shower facilities, a picnic area, and a campground. Day use fee applies.

Lake Robertson

35 minutes to Devils Backbone Outpost Tap Room & Kitchen.

Rockbridge County’s 31-acre Lake Robertson was built in 1971 and named after Senator A. Willis Robertson, who championed conserving our natural resources. Nestled in the lush green mountains, the scenic recreation area includes boat rentals and a boat launch as well as a pool, playground, hiking trails, campground, and picnic shelter.  No gasoline motors allowed.

Lake Shenandoah

20 minutes to Brothers Craft Brewing.

Located just outside the city of Harrisonburg, Lake Shenandoah is a good option for paddling. The shallow 36-acre lake features a parking lot and a paved boat ramp. No motorized engines, swimming or wading allowed.

Todd Lake Recreation Area

40 minutes to Skipping Rock Beer Company.

Perfect for your kids’ first trip in a boat, Todd Lake is a small, quiet, man-made lake northwest of Staunton. Non-motorized boats can share the 7.5-acre lake with swimmers and fishermen. With a sandy beach, picnic facilities, hiking trails, bathhouse, camping, and a playground, the recreation area is a great fit for a family weekend adventure. Day access fee applies.

Rivers

Upper James River Water Trail

20 minutes to Great Valley Farm Brewery.

The Upper James River Water Trail stretches along 64 miles of the James River as it winds through Rockingham and Botetourt Counties. This area is perfect for canoeing, kayaking, tubing, and fishing, and has been designated a Virginia Scenic River. The Department of Game and Inland Fisheries operates 12 public access points with free parking. Rapids vary and can reach class III at normal water levels. For gear, check out Lexington’s Walkabout Outfitter or Journey Outdoors or Natural Bridge Station’s Wilderness Canoe Company.

Goshen Pass

45 minutes to Redbeard Brewing Company.

Goshen Pass, where the Maury River cuts through Little North Mountain, is one of the most popular sites for catching whitewater in Virginia. This beautiful six-mile trip includes powerful class II, class III, and even named class IV rapids like Corner Rapid and Devil’s Kitchen. To stretch out your day, tie up your kayak and explore the boulderscape scattered in the riverbed.

Middle River from Westview to Verona

15 minutes to Bedlam Brewing.

Relax while you paddle a gentle, 25-mile section of the Middle River in Augusta County running from Westview to Verona. The river meanders through farmland, offering some lovely pastoral view. This float has easily accessed put in and take out spots and the rapids top out at class II.

Waynesboro Water Trail

5 minutes to Basic City Beer Co.

Want to paddle through town? The Waynesboro Water Trail extends along four picturesque miles of the South River from the Ridgeview Park Boat Ramp to the Basic Park Boat Ramp. Easy-access boat ramps and mild class I and class II rapids are great for beginners. During the summer pool season, the Paddle in the Park program rents kayaks to paddlers without gear of their own. Another good place to rent equipment is Rockfish Gap Outfitters.

Shenandoah River South Fork

30 minutes to Stable Craft Brewing.

The beautiful and popular South Fork Shenandoah River offers almost 100 miles of paddling as it flows northeast toward Front Royal. Launch your canoe at Port Republic and enjoy the scenery of Page Valley, created by Massanutten Mountain rising on the west and the Blue Ridge on the east. Rapids top out at class II and there are 20 public access points. Canoe traffic can be heavy in the summer.

Guided Tours

Kayaking, White Water Rafting or River Tubing with Outdoor Adventure Experiences Inc.

20  minutes to Pale Fire Brewing Co.

If a guided tour is more your speed, book an adventure with Outdoor Adventure Experiences Inc. This company offers full and half-day kayaking excursions from April to November and tubing trips from May to September. You might also gather your crew for a white water rafting ride. Hang on tight for the thrill of a lifetime! Rafting trips launch as long as the temperature is above 50 degrees.

Guided Trips with Massanutten Adventures

25 minutes to Three Notch’d Valley Collab House.

What better way to see the Shenandoah Valley than from the perspective of its namesake river?

Massanutten Adventures has been leading guided canoe, kayak, and tube excursions for 19 years along the Shenandoah River as it runs parallel to Shenandoah National Park. The canoe/kayak season runs from April to October and the tubing season runs from Memorial Day to Labor Day.

Paddle and Fish with Wilderness Canoe Company

30 minutes to Devils Backbone Outpost Tap Room & Kitchen.

Wilderness Canoe Company (WCC) lets you decide how you want to float down the James River in Rockbridge County. Choose from canoe, kayak, raft, and tube rentals. Some paddlers may rise to the challenge and run class I, II, and III rapids. Those who want a more laid-back experience can select a fishing-optional tour. Want to make a weekend of it? Paddle in and stay overnight at a primitive campground at their Wilderness Basecamp.

Brewer: Shawn Gatesman

How long have you operated the brewery? Since opening it on 9/22/17. But I guess you could say since starting an actual plan for the brewery in March 2015.

How did you get involved in brewing? I am the founder, owner, brewer, etc. so it started with a dream in my head and it evolved from there.

What’s something people don’t know about your brewery? We are not only a nanobrewery, but a very small nanobrewery – making beer on a 1bbl system. This gives me the ability to brew much like I did as a homebrewer. I have the freedom to use what ingredients I want, and I can do a lot of different beers (over 90 now and counting). This, along with the beer being so fresh, makes for some nice products. We are also a specialty brew shop. We allow groups to make their own homebrew with us (brew on site) and we sell brewing ingredients and supplies.

What’s your favorite food and beer combo? A balanced New England IPA and a burger! (I freaking love burgers…) From my tap list, I’d recommend F-Bomb or Zombie Kisses.

Tell us about your pets: Being from the veterinary industry, many pets have “found” our family along the way. We currently have 2 dogs and 3 cats, all rescues.

What is your favorite thing to do in the Shenandoah Valley? I live here, so lots of things! But I am an outdoor kind of guy, so hiking and paddling are way up there for me. These days, I enjoy getting my kids out into nature.

What’s the best way to spend time in the outdoors in the Shenandoah Valley? The hiking and biking opportunities around here are nearly endless. There are so many great ways to work up a thirst for some cold ones in the evening!

Brewer: Josh French

How long have you worked at the brewery? 6 years

How did you get involved in brewing? I got involved in craft brewing, because I love the local craft beer scene. I started out working for Wild Wolf Brewing Company in Nellysford, VA.

What is something people don’t know about your brewery?  At the Outpost production brewery, we pipe beer about 2,000 feet from the brite tanks where the beer is stored to the packaging hall. The pipeline carries about 12 barrels of beer from the brite tank to the bottling line. It consists of four pipes so that if something breaks down we are able to run the beer in a loop to keep it cool.

What’s your favorite food and beer combo?  Pepperoni pizza and Devils Backbone Vienna Lager.

Do you have pets? I have one awesome cat named Lilly, aka Lil Bill.   She is super chill and loves attention.

What is your favorite thing to do in the Shenandoah Valley? I live in Waynesboro and love spending time outside on the AT or training for triathlons on the scenic back roads in Lexington/Rockbridge County, Staunton, Waynesboro, Augusta County, and Harrisonburg.

What’s the best way to spend time in the outdoors in the Shenandoah Valley? Other than the things mentioned above, I love fly fishing on the south river in Waynesboro!

With its beautiful lakes, rivers, and fresh mountain streams that boast over 30 species of fish, Virginia is an East Coast hotspot for freshwater fishing. Now that fishing weather is upon us, drop a line in one of our best fishing holes and then retire to a nearby watering hole along the Shenandoah Beerwerks Trail to celebrate your catch.

Upper James River Water Trail

20 minutes from Great Valley Farm Brewery

The Upper James River Water Trail is a 59-mile stretch of the James River from its headwaters in Botetourt County to Glasgow in Rockbridge County. Recently designated a Virginia Scenic River, the UJRWT is also a favorite destination for anglers from all across the country. Species at home here include smallmouth, spotted, and largemouth bass, channel and flathead catfish, and sunfish. Several stocked trout streams feed into the James.

Glen Maury Park

20 minutes from Devils Backbone Outpost Tap Room & Kitchen

The Maury River is the only river in VA that starts and ends in the same county…Rockbridge! Glen Maury Park, in Buena Vista, is a wonderful place to experience the river with the youngest anglers in your family. Stocked with trout eight times a year, the Maury River is also home to small-mouth bass, rock bass, fallfish, and bluegills. The park features a boat launch for canoes.

Sherando Lake

24 minutes from Seven Arrows Brewing Company

Sherando Lake Recreation Area boasts two lakes stocked with largemouth bass, trout, channel catfish, bluegill, and redear sunfish. The 7-acre upper lake has fishing piers which are good for fishing with the family. The 20-acre lower lake is good for largemouth bass. There is no boat ramp, but small crafts can be carried into the water.

The South River

5 minutes from Basic City Beer Co.

Home of the South River Fly Fishing Expo, The South River offers opportunities for both warm and cold water fishing. Anglers can expect to catch smallmouth bass, redbreast sunfish, rock bass, fallfish and largemouth bass along the length of the river. Several sections of the river are stocked with rainbow and brown trout. One of only two urban trout fisheries in the state, the South River flows through Waynesboro and can be accessed in several places.

Lake Tams

5 minutes from Queen City Brewing

Lake Tams, within Staunton city limits, is a stocked 2.5-acre pond where you might catch largemouth bass, bluegill and channel catfish. This spot is perfect for introducing your youngest family members to the sport. Staunton Parks and Recreation even holds yearly fishing derby events here for youth and seniors. This site boasts ample parking and plenty of room to set up lawn chairs.

Hone Quarry

30 minutes from Restless Moons Brewing

Located in the George Washington National Forest, Hone Quarry is a five and a half acre lake with a primitive boat launch. It is stocked with trout, channel catfish, bass, sunfish, and crappie. Make a weekend of it: Hone Quarry Recreation area also offers camping and hiking.

Mossy Creek

20 minutes from Pale Fire Brewing Co.

If you’re up for a fly fishing challenge, Mossy Creek is a worthy destination. The creek flows through private property where no wading is allowed, but anglers who patiently persevere from the steep banks often score big catches of brown trout. Fishermen must carry a signed permit card along with their VA fishing license.

Shenandoah River

30 minutes from Stable Craft Brewing

The beautiful, lazy Shenandoah River is one of the world’s best sites for smallmouth bass. You can also catch largemouth, carp, and musky. Fish from your canoe or take advantage of shoreline access to the river in Port Republic. So many fish make this body of water their home that anglers rarely report returning home empty handed.

Licenses and Permits

Make sure you have your fishing license in hand before you bait your hook. Many areas also have special regulations. For information, visit the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fishing.

Outfitters and Guides

If you’re looking for fishing supplies or guided fishing trips or lessons check out these places,

Mossy Creek Fly Fishing / Harrisonburg

Dubby’s Fishing and Hunting / Harrisonburg

Heartland Outfitters / Dayton

Wilderness Adventures  / Staunton

South River Fly Shop / Waynesboro

Rockfish Gap Outfitters / Waynesboro

Appalachian Bronzeback Adventures / Lexington

John Roberts Fly Fishing Adventures / Lexington

Looking forward to a full week with the kids during their spring break? We’ve got lots of options to keep them occupied. Better yet, these activities take place along the trail, so so you fun-loving parents can always find a family-friendly brewery. Here’s how to thrill the gang!

Hikes and Playgrounds

Celebrate the first days of spring by getting out into nature. Stretch your legs with these family-friendly hikes and playgrounds. And don’t forget to visit Shenandoah National Park, which is practically in our backyard!

Lexington and Rockbridge County

Boxerwood Gardens is the perfect place to spend the day with your kids. Explore the trails, gardens, installations, and nature center before retiring to the natural playground for the rest of your visit. If you’re further south, make sure to check out Natural Bridge State Park.

Augusta County

Augusta Springs Wetlands offers a great way to get some exercise and spot some wildlife at the same time. Best of all, much of the ¾-mile main loop trail is boardwalk, so those little shoes won’t get crazy muddy. A popular hike for families with older children is Humpback Rocks.

Staunton

Take the kids for a hike in Montgomery Hall Park. Miles of trails loop through the woods, so you can hike for hours, but it’s easy to cut the day short if the experience is too much for little legs. This park also features two playgrounds.

Waynesboro

The best place to hike and play in downtown Waynesboro is Ridgeview Park, which has a playground, trails, and a footbridge over the river. Speaking of trails along the river, the South River Greenway is a paved trail that stretches for 1.2 miles along the South River and is ideal for strolling or bike riding.

Harrisonburg

Your family will love exploring JMU’s Edith J. Carrier Arboretum. This “urban garden and forested greenspace” will delight all ages with meandering paths and native plants. Your next stop should be A Dream Come True Playground is an accessible/inclusive playground with appropriate equipment for children ages 2-12.

Adrenaline Boosts

Does your family feel closest when your hearts are thumping? For some wild, fun times, visit these area attractions.

Harrisonburg

Great adventure awaits just outside of Harrisonburg. You probably know you can explore deep underground at Luray Caverns. But Rope Adventure Park takes you high into the trees to test your limits in the sky. Want to play in the water? Try Massanutten Water Park where you’ll splash, slide, and float your way to a terrific time. And If your family is more interested in terrestrial sports, take your skateboards and scooters to Westover Skate Park.

Waynesboro

Do you enjoy go-carts, mini golf, and hitting home runs at the batting cages? Fast Trax lets you experience this and more! If disc golf is more your speed, visit Fox Disc Golf Course at Coyner Springs Park.

Staunton

Strap on your helmets and knee pads and take the fam to the Action Skate Park, where skateboards, scooters, in-line skates, and BMX bikes are welcome. Toss your discs at the Staunton Kiwanis Disc Golf course.

Lexington & Rockbridge County

Ever had a zebra stick her head into your car for her dinner? Animal lovers will thrill at the 180-acre drive-thru adventure that is the Virginia Safari Park in Natural Bridge. If living animals aren’t exciting enough, visit Dinosaur Kingdom II, a site the Travel Channel calls “outlandish” for life-sized dinosaur sculptures and much, much more. Get back to reality at the Virginia Horse Center, where horse lovers might see a show or event.

Augusta County

Get dirty taking a guided adventure tour through Fountain Cave at Grand Caverns with kids ages 12+. This is a real spelunking adventure: you’ll climb and crawl over rugged terrain and wear headlamps and kneepads!

Activities for Rainy Days

Bowl Your Heart Out

When the weather is nasty, people who are looking for indoor excitement go bowling. It’s the most fun you’ll have in rental shoes.

• Staunton Lanes offers lanes with bumpers and special ball aimers for the game’s youngest fans.There’s also a snack bar stocked with all your favorites.
• Valley Lanes in Harrisonburg

Roll Away

Funky’s Skate Center in Harrisonburg will help you bond with your kids while also connecting with your own youth to the tune of 80s music, flashing lights, and snack bar food.

Jump for Joy

Nothing burns off energy like jumping, and this area has several places to get your bounce on. Harrisonburg’s Pump It Up and Staunton’s Eli’s Fun Center each have inflatables. If you’d like to go with a traditional trampoline, try, Valley Jump Trampoline Park in Harrisonburg. Wear your stretchy pants because adults can jump, too!

Catch a Movie

Sometimes it’s nice to slow down and relax. For all the latest movies, check out these area theaters.

• Staunton:  Visulite and Legacy Theaters
• Harrisonburg: Court Square Theater and  Regal Cinemas 14
• Waynesboro: Zeus Theaters
• Lexington:  RC State Theatre and Hull’s Drive-In

Visit a Museum

If you’re stuck inside on a rainy day, spend a few hours touring one of our diverse museums.

• Lexington & Rockbridge County: Get your history fix in downtown Lexington at the  Virginia Military Institute Museum, the Stonewall Jackson House, and the Lee Chapel and Museum. If your little ones like to feed ducks and look at farm buildings and water wheels while you learn, try the Cyrus McCormick Farm.
• Staunton:  The Frontier Culture Museum  is open all year long because life doesn’t stop on the farm. Families will love checking out living farm history and seeing what activities kept our ancestors busy. The museum includes both indoor and outdoor spaces. And if your little ones are fascinated by fire engines, check out the Jumbo Antique Fire Engine at the Staunton Fire Department.
• Harrisonburg: A family can spend hours in the Explore More Discovery Museum, which is two floors of interactive fun. Highlights include a science lab, an art studio, a theater with costumes and makeup, and a real ambulance and airplane to explore. Firefighters in training will love a trip to the Larry W. Shifflett Fire Museum to see historic memorabilia.
• Waynesboro: Celebrates Waynesboro history at two Main Street museums. The Waynesboro Heritage Museum houses permanent galleries of relics from the town’s founding industries and educational institutions while the Plumb House Museum features Civil War and Native American artifacts as well as a summer kitchen, historic garden, and outbuildings to explore.

Solve a Mystery

Does  your group include junior detectives? Exercise your minds by working together to decipher clues and escape your locked room in under an hour.

• Staunton: Crack the Code Escape Room. Pick from four themes with varying difficulty including The Dark Mage’s Rise and Steampunk City.
• Harrisonburg: House of Clues – Escape Room. Choose from three themed rooms including Dr. Skarz’ Lab and Through the Looking Glass.

Take a Tour of Space

Lean back at the John C. Wells Planetarium at James Madison University during one of its free Saturday shows. Shows are an hour long and include a family-friendly film and an entertaining startalk.

Don’t Forget the Ice Cream

Some kids will say the ice cream at the end of the adventure was the best part!

• Waynesboro: Try Willy’s Ice Cream or Kline’s (locations also in Harrisonburg and Staunton)
• Staunton: The Split Banana or Wrights Dairy Rite
• Lexington: Sweet Things or the Ice Cream Factory
• Harrisonburg: Megamilkshakes or Smiley’s Ice Cream

Brewer:  Chris Ward

How long have you worked at the brewery?  A bit over 4 years

How did you get involved in brewing?  I started homebrewing when I was 19 or 20 and I got the bug. I have always been interested in cooking (nearly went to culinary school in Manhattan), so brewing was a natural fit. I have a pretty great palate and I love coming up with new flavor combinations in cooking, so when I realized I could do that while making beer I fell in love. It would take the better part of a day to tell the story of how I got where I am, but the simple version is that I was determined to make a career of brewing so I got in the industry in sales, worked into taproom management, then went to production, and now I am the head brewer at Brothers.

Tell us something people don’t know about your brewery:  The thing that people may not know, that I feel is incredibly important, is our philanthropic work. It may not be widely known because we don’t do it for notoriety, but helping other people truly brings joy and gives us purpose. It is deeply rooted in who we all are, and the brewery gives us the opportunity to increase our reach in terms of giving back. From monthly casks for a cause, to food drives, to Christmas toy drives and even events trying to gather school supplies, we really make it our mission to give back as much as humanly possible.

What’s your favorite food and beer combo:  I love food (imagine that) and I love beer (more breaking news), and I really love pairing food with beer. I am from New York originally so I would be remiss if I didn’t mention pizza and beer. It may be cliche but if you get a proper slice and put it next to a pint of Lil’ Hellion (our double gold medal winning, best in show in Virginia, Helles Lager) that is a beautiful thing. Beer is so versatile when pairing with food, that is what makes it so fun. A nice pale ale like Great Outdoors with an arugula salad with a raspberry vinaigrette (as made by my dear friend Dexter Burgess of CrossKeys Vineyard) is a beautiful combo. I like a nice hearty red or brown ale with an incredibly rare cut of red meat, preferably tenderloin, preferably elk. Really though, what is better than dessert? Give me something rich and full of chocolate and pair it with a barrel-aged imperial stout like Resolute and I can die a happy man. It’s really no wonder I am fat, haha!

Tell us about any pets you have:  Talking about my pets is among my favorite things to do! I have a Norwegian Forest cat named Arwen who comes 2nd only to my wife in my heart. She is beautiful and fluffy and has the loyalty of a dog. She runs to the door the second I get home from work and spends the rest of the evening by my side. I also have another cat named Floki. He is tremendous and has feet similar to a kangaroo which he uses to stand up and observe the movements of the room. He talks constantly and suffers from some cat anxiety which makes me love him even more. We are working on adding a rottweiler to the mix who will be named Sirius.

What is your favorite thing to do in the Shenandoah Beerwerks Trail footprint?:  I really enjoy the food scene around here. There are so many great places both known and unknown. So many cuisines are represented as well, so that adds to the number of options. In addition to food, the number of breweries/vineyards/distilleries gives plenty of great options. Other than that, the best thing is to spend some time in the great outdoors.

What’s the best way to spend time in the outdoors in the Shenandoah Valley?  I love it all honestly. I grew up spending my summers in the Catskills/Adirondacks and up in Maine in Acadia National Park, so I love hiking, and we certainly have plenty of great options there. Drifting down the river, fishing, camping, hunting. I love being outside and this area is truly remarkable for that reason.

Congratulations! You’ve just been chosen best man or maid of honor for your BFF’s wedding. Perhaps most important among your duties is planning the best bachelor/bachelorette party ever. Let’s celebrate the end of singledom in style.

Weekend Escape

Bring the gang just down the road to the Beerwerks Trail. We think the wedding party needs our mixture of nature and nightlife.

• Getaway Lodging
  • Clear Spring Homestead, Dayton
  • Hermitage Hill Farm & Stables/Stable Craft Brewing, Augusta County
  • Sugar Tree Inn, Vesuvius
  • The Iris Inn, Waynesboro
  • By the Side of the Road, Harrisonburg
• Upscale boutiques
  • The Georges, Lexington
  • The Blackburn Inn, Staunton
  • The Frederick House, Staunton
  • Hotel Madison, Harrisonburg

Seek Some Thrills

Do you and your friends get high on nature and adrenaline? The Shenandoah Valley offers opportunities for as much outdoor adventure as you can pack into your weekend.

• Hiking
• Biking
• Skiing, ziplining, and rappelling at Massanutten Resort
• Paintball at Augusta Airsoft
• Clay Shooting at The Glorious Twelfth or Flying Rabbit Sporting Clays
• Cowgirl Weekend at North Mountain Outfitters
• Canoeing, Kayaking, and White-Water Rafting
• Fishing trip with Fly Fishing Adventures, Mossy Creek Fly Fishing or South River Fly Shop
•  

Brewery Hop Like a VIP

Allow Shenandoah Tours to be your designated driver and whisk you from brewery to brewery along the Beerwerks Trail during one of its Craft Beer Tours. Make a day of it, and book a delicious multi-city tasting adventure showcasing some of the best craft beer (and food) in the Shenandoah Valley. We were just written up in Vogue as the South’s new foodie hot spot, after all.

If you really want to stoke your beer I.Q., visit one of the breweries that offer behind-the-scenes tours or info sessions.

• Devils Backbone
• Brothers Craft Brewing
• The Friendly Fermenter
• Seven Arrows Brewing
• Stable Craft Brewing
• Queen City Brewing
•  

And don’t forget your Shenandoah Beerwerks Trail Passport! Visit six or more of our breweries to earn one of our cool t-shirts. If you don’t manage to make it to six breweries, you’ll have a great excuse to come back soon.

Yoga or Spa Day

Deep breaths and gentle stretching will drive away pre-wedding anxieties. Find your center by participating in a yoga class with your wedding party.

• The Nest Yoga and Fitness Studio, Harrisonburg
• Sanctuary Yoga & Wellness, Staunton
• Center of Gravity Yoga & Pilates, Lexington
• Blue Moon Yoga, Waynesboro
• Check out our events page for breweries that regularly host beer yoga and barre classes.

Afterwards, why not gather the bridal party for a day of pampering. Offering a range of services including massage, nails, hair and makeup, these spas are sure to relax and please you.

• Encore Salon 215 Spa, Lexington
• Stoneridge Day Spa, LLC, Waynesboro
• Détente Spa and Salon, Waynesboro
• Breezy Hill Day Spa, Staunton
• Mill Street Body and Soul Day Spa, Staunton
• Cedar Stone Spa, Harrisonburg
• The Beauty Spa, Harrisonburg
•  

Live Music or Music Festival

If you’d like to spend the bachelor/bachelorette weekend lounging outdoors, indulging in craveable food and beer, and dancing to live music, plan to toast the upcoming nuptials at Red Wing Roots Music Festival on July 12-14, 2019.

If you want to jam out for an evening, check out our events page. Our breweries regularly host bands.

Brewery: Basic City Beer Co.

Brewer’s Name: Jacque Landry

How long have you worked at the brewery?:[I] first toured the site with Bart  in the summer of 2014 and worked with him and Chris on designing the system, specifying equipment, planning workflow, refining the business plan and designing the initial beer menu over the next two years while the initial renovations to the building were made. [I] began full-time work on the build-out in July 2016, and we opened our doors on October 15 of the same year.

How did you get involved in brewing?: I was doing pharmacology research in the Psychiatry Dept. at Emory when I learned that a colleague across the hall made his own beer. We ended up home brewing together for three years. When my wife finished her degree in 1996, we moved to Denver so I could start professionally. In 1998, I helped open the South Street Brewery in Charlottesville where I stayed until it was sold in 2014.

Tell us something people don’t know about your brewery:  Our brew kettle defies the laws of physics, and Wendy would actually prefer you call her Lorrie.

What’s your favorite food and beer combo?: Basic City Beer Co.’s Our Daily Pils and boiled crawfish.

What’s your favorite thing to do in the Shenandoah Valley?: I ride a motorcycle to work (from Earlysville) as often as possible, often taking one of many long ways there or back.  Enjoyed a few on and off-road rides with my trail mates from Devils Backbone.

What’s the best way to spend time in the outdoors in the Shenandoah Valley?: Hiking with my daughters. It doesn’t happen nearly often enough.

Colder winter nights call for cuddling, and we have some snuggle-worthy suggestions for romantic lodging. Whether your tastes lean toward cozy and quiet or elegant and glamorous, these well-appointed lodgings all set the mood for romance and offer easy access to the area’s scenic, cultural, dining, and of course, brewery delights.

The Inn at WestShire Farms / Staunton:

For the perfect blend of Southern grace and modern-day comfort, take your sweetheart to The Inn at WestShire Farms. Tucked into farmland just north of downtown, the inn treats you to to pastoral views of rolling hills from the house and grounds. Your breakfast boasts a basket of fresh baked goods to enjoy with your coffee or tea followed by a sweet or savory farm-fresh hot breakfast such as Caprese frittata or Kentucky hot brown quiche. Choose from ten charming guest rooms and suites and plan to pamper yourselves with the special romance package that features champagne, chocolate-covered strawberries, candlelight, and an extended checkout time.

Hotel Madison & Shenandoah Valley Conference Center / Harrisonburg

Set your romantic stay in Harrisonburg at the elegant Hotel Madison & Shenandoah Valley Conference Center. Your luxurious room or suite will feature a downtown or mountain view and will blend sophisticated style with relaxing comfort. Take advantage of Harrisonburg’s wealth of restaurants or dine on site in the Montpelier Restaurant & Bar, which serves Southern-inspired cuisine and room service. Feeling active? Try out the indoor pool and fitness center. For a night to remember, try the romance package, which includes valet parking, champagne, gourmet chocolates, and a delicious breakfast for two.

Iris Inn / Waynesboro

Travel to the top of the Blue Ridge to relax at the Iris Inn, a modern retreat overlooking the majesty of the Shenandoah Valley. This location is a prime destination to appreciate the tranquility of nature, but it also allows easy access to restaurants and the area’s other cultural opportunities. Mingle with fellow guests at the complementary wine and cheese hour or retreat to your room for an in-room massage and a soak in the two-person jacuzzi. Celebrate special occasions with champagne and chocolate-covered strawberries in your room and watch the sun go down over the Valley. For a unique and intimate experience, try the Sip & Simmer Cabin Dinner package. You’ll savor local wine in the privacy of your cabin while putting the finishing touches on a multi-course, seasonal, chef-prepped meal.

Penthouse at the Robert E. Lee Hotel / Lexington/Rockbridge County

Take in the views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and historic downtown Lexington from the penthouse at the Robert E. Lee Hotel. You’ll relish the convenience of a downtown location that’s within walking distance of museums, universities, shops and dining. The hotel, built in 1926, retains historical characteristics like high ceilings and large windows, but was fully updated with modern luxuries in 2016. Kick off your shoes and indulge yourself in a fully stocked, luxury two-bedroom, two-bath penthouse. Your stay includes a complimentary breakfast and discounted meals at Rocca Bar Ristorante.

The Inn at Meadowcroft / Augusta County

Choose from six unique guest rooms and suites at The Inn at Meadowcroft, set on 300 picturesque acres bordering a seventh-generation working farm. The Inn is situated in a fully updated 1795 log home now renovated with modern comforts but still retaining regional and historical characteristics like native stone fireplaces. Enjoy your cozy, antique-decorated room and modern bath, have a drink in the great room, and explore the terraced gardens. Check out the views of the sunset and stars, and greet the morning with a locally sourced, farm-to-table breakfast.

Stable Craft Brewing / Augusta County

If you’re looking for an overnight experience onsite at one of our taprooms, reserve a suite at Stable Craft Brewing. Suites with comfortable beds and incredible views are available for two to four people and include kitchens or kitchenettes. Stable Craft also offers a farm-fresh menu for dinner or weekend lunch.

Mexican Mole Stout Cookies

In this recipe we will be using Basic City Beer Co. Gringo Stout brewed seasonally around the fall.  The Gringo has chocolate, vanilla, cinnamon, and habanero notes that sure will make you nice and warm on the inside.  These cookies are definitely for the adventurous, bearded craft beer drinker, and the real jolly Santa Claus.

Ingredients:

6 – ounces Gringo Stout

1 – Stick of Butter

¼ – Cup Cocoa

1 ½ – Cup Flour

½ – Teaspoon Salt

1 – Teaspoon Baking Powder

1/2 – Teaspoon Baking Soda

2 Cups Nestle Semi Sweet Chocolate Chips

⅓ – Cup Dark Brown Sugar

1/2 – Cup Granulated Sugar

1 – Tablespoon of Molasses

1- Egg

1/2 – Cup Broken Walnuts

Steps:

Preheat cven 350 degrees. Pan spray baking sheet or use parchment paper.  Mix cocoa, flour, salt,baking powder, baking soda, and chocolate chips together.  Make sure your butter is soft and beat with sugar, brown sugar, molasses, and egg.  Mix both mixes together while gradually pouring in the stout.  Add walnuts and mix one more time.

Chill cookie batter for 30 minutes.

Portion cookies on greased baking sheet and cook 14-18 minutes.

 

Recipe: Chef Michael Pustai (Hops Kitchen)

Beerwerks breweries are festive at any time of the year, but they are especially fun during the holiday season. This year, you’ll find holiday crafts, family-friendly costume parties, rocking New Year’s bashes, and opportunities to give back to the community – all accompanied by seasonal brews.

Harrisonburg

Pale Fire Brewing Co.

• NYE Party with The Sustainers: December 31 at 9 p.m – January 1 at 1 a.m.

Pale Fire’s New Year’s Eve bash will feature The Sustainers for the second year, as well as a return of Champagne Supernova, a flagship beer aged on champagne lightly toasted oak.

Brothers Craft Brewing

• Bros’ Giving Tree to benefit Mercy House Now through December 16.

Help make Christmas wishes come true during the 3rd annual Brothers Giving Tree to benefit Mercy House, Inc. Stop in to grab an ornament with gift wishes for the residents at Mercy House or create a “Welcome Home Basket.”

• Casks for a Cause benefiting Mercy House: December 14, 2018 from 4  – 11 p.m. Come out to help out this wonderful cause by buying a pint and participating in the silent auction for the framed event poster. All proceeds from the cask and the silent auction will go to the Mercy House and their cause.

Augusta County

Stable Craft Brewing

• Old Fashion Farm Christmas: December 9 from 12 – 8 p.m.

Celebrate on the farm with horse-drawn wagon rides, a visit from Santa (and photo opportunities), a stable full of horses, barrel-aged beers, a tree lighting, and an ugly sweater costume contest.

• Stable Craft Brewing’s Christmas Cookie Decorating Workshop: December 16 from 2 – 5 p.m.

Get into the holiday spirit with Stable Craft Brewing’s Christmas Cookie Decorating Workshop. This event is open to both adults and children and features seasonal music by Jimmy O’.

• Griswold Christmas Costume Contest: December 22 from 7 – 9 p.m.

Dress as your favorite National Lampoon character and come out to Stable Craft for a rip-roaring time! We’ll be handing out prizes, so it’s sure to be a fun night.

Seven Arrows Brewing

• Frosty Pines: December 26 at 6 p.m.

Join Crafty Canvas at Seven Arrows to paint Frosty Pines. Step-by-step instructions and all supplies will be provided. Tickets are $25, and registration is required.

• Ugly Sweater Party: December 28 from 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.

It’s the time of year to wear your best ugly Christmas sweater to Seven Arrows. Pint discounts for those in their ugliest/best sweater!

• 4 Year Anniversary Bash: December 31 at 8 p.m.

Come celebrate to commemorate the brewery’s 4th anniversary and ring in the New Year with music from DJ Lance! Nobos Kitchen will be open for dinner and late night snacks. Enjoy the photo booth and no cover!

Staunton

Redbeard Brewery

• Cookie and Beer Pairing Event at Staunton Nights’ Cherish Every Christmas: December 8th from 4 – 8 pm.

We are pairing our X-Mas beer with the Chocolate Crackle Cookie from Paris Cake Company while supplies last. We will also be topping the glass with a peppermint rim!

• Jeff Mo & Roz’s Holiday Sing Along: December 21st 9 – 11 pm.

We’ll be singing Christmas Carols and inviting everyone to sing along with us.

• New Year’s Eve Celebration with Drägön Wägön & Friends: December 31st 9 pm – 12:30 am.

Come ring in the new year with us at Redbeard! Noise makers, funny hats, prizes, and great beer.and prizes.

Lexington

Devils Backbone Outpost Tap Room & Kitchen

• Holiday Party: December 15 from 6:30 – 9:30 p.m.

Celebrate the holidays by dressing up as your favorite holiday character — there will be a contest for most creative costume! Enjoy yuletide beer mocktails, holiday menu additions, and music by Burr Datz (and friends).

Let’s talk Black Friday – we think your friends and loved ones might love you even more if you turn your trip to the Shenandoah Valley into a dream holiday shopping spree.  Your celebration to-do checklist will get that special Valley-local touch, and you’ll have an excuse to stop by Beerwerks breweries for a break from all that hard work! Take a look at just a few of our unique Beerwerks-approved shops.

For the Book & Music Lover

One of the best parts about shopping local is our proprietors who take great joy in bringing quality items to each customer. This helps you obtain unique goods and knowledgeable advice to make an informed decision about your purchase.

Rockbridge Music / Lexington

Rockbridge Music suggests that it’s “never too late to pick up an instrument.” If you’ve always been curious, check out their extensive collections of “instruments, accessories, recording equipment, band rentals, amplifiers, lesson books, music lessons, instrument repairs, and fun!”

Black Swan Books / Staunton

Come choose a classic read at Black Swan Books, which offers rare and used books as well as records. Not sure what to read or listen to next? Ask at the counter for a recommendation. Plus, if you’re lucky you might be in the store when there’s a reading, book signing, or live music.

Downtown Books / Harrisonburg

Downtown Books, run by independent bookseller Bob Schurtz, sells a variety of used books, videos, CD’s, DVD’s, comic books, postcards, cards, and more. You’ll find the perfect gift and probably something for yourself as well.

For the Food Lover

Buying food locally here means enjoying Shenandoah Valley-grown food – it’s fresh, wholesome and part of the reason you came here, right? Plus, you’ll be able talk to the vendor about the production of the food.

Friendly City Co-Op / Harrisonburg

More than 150 local vendors sell their wares at Friendly City Co-Op. You can buy fresh produce, hot foods, baked goods, coffee, honey, dairy, meat, and many other giftables like locally-made lotions, soaps, CDs, cookbooks, and lavender products. Feel good supporting local artisans while reaping the benefits of wholesome and organically sound products.

Cocoa Mills Chocolates / Lexington

Cocoa Mills Chocolates sells an array of artisanal chocolates, all worth trying. One of their best gifts, perfect for the outdoors fanatic on your list, is the chocolate survival kit. Buy one for yourself, too, as the generous assortment of chocolate is a must-have for the Black Friday shopper as it will “help you survive any situation great or small.”

Staunton Olive Oil / Staunton

Don’t forget the holiday entertaining you’ll be doing in the next few weeks. Stock up on vinegar and olive oil at Staunton Olive Oil to serve at your next beer and cheese party. And if you’re looking for gifts, you can purchase herbs, soaps, coasters, or olive oil sampler sets.

The Cheese Shop / Augusta Co.

It may be early in the baking season, but for anyone who gifts cookie baskets, a trip to The Cheese Shop is in order for all your ingredient needs. This newly renovated store also offers snacks (to go with your beer), deli meats and cheeses, and bulk spices, which cost far less than in the supermarket. (Insider Tip: stop by the Galactic Donut within the Cheese Shop and grab the Homer Special!)

For Kids at Heart

Just Games / Lexington

Just Games is a great place to stock up for the next game night with friends. “We have just the game for beer lovers called Brewin’ USA. It’s a strategy board game where you play a startup brewery competing to develop the best craft beer and control regions by winning local brewfests,” Zander Tallman, at Just Games, enthuses. Just Games carries dozens of party games like Cards Against Humanity and Telestrations. Everyone knows games like those are more fun with a pint of beer!

Pufferbellies / Staunton

While you won’t find anything beer related at Pufferbellies (!), you’ll find plenty to keep your kids (or yourself) nostalgically-entertained for many happy hours. Browse the carefully curated children’s books or the LEGO wall. Find products for the science-minded or the art enthusiast. Our personal favorite is the game selection, made up of many award-winning titles that emphasize creativity and teamwork.

For Outdoor Lovers

There’s something special about giving experiences. If you (or the lucky gift recipient) enjoy the outdoors, check these shops out.

Rockfish Gap Outfitters / Waynesboro

If you’re in the market for hiking, biking, paddling, or camping gear, make Rockfish Gap Outfitters your first stop. Rockfish Gap Outfitters is the Valley’s oldest outdoor store, outfitting Appalachian trail hikers and the area’s outdoor enthusiasts since 1987. This store carries a wide array of inventory, but knowledgeable staff, who actually use the products, can provide great guidance and advice to customers.

Mossy Creek Fly Fishing / Harrisonburg

Mossy Creek Fly Fishing is your go-to shop for Harrisonburg-area fly fishing supplies or adventure. In addition to showcasing a full line of great products to meet your supply needs, including the largest selections of fly-tying supplies in Virginia, Mossy Creek will also offer guide services and instruction along the scenic Mossy Creek or in the mountain streams in George Washington National Forest.

Dominion Outdoors / Augusta Co.

Do you like to hunt or target shoot? Buy rifles, handguns, shotguns, ammo, optics and a wide variety of other gun-related supplies at Dominion Outdoors in Fishersville.

South River Fly Shop / Waynesboro

Located within easy walking distance of the South River, the fully-stocked South River Fly Shop is a great choice for last-minute supplies for your fly-fishing adventure. Grab a gift certificate for a guided trip or fly fishing lessons.

For Beer Lovers

Finally, you can spend this hectic shopping day relaxing at one of our breweries and enjoying a variety of fresh craft beers. Take home six-packs or growlers for you or your friends. Also, many of our breweries sell gift cards, so plan to share the love. Here are some other beer-related stops you should make.

Shenandoah Hops / Staunton

Shenandoah Hops sells a wide variety of craft beer, cider, and wine and the staff is very knowledgeable about the products being sold. Some bottles may be mixed for six packs, and you can also buy snacks and local art and jewelry.

Valley Pike Farm Market / Augusta Co.

Valley Pike Farm Market loves supporting all things local.  Offering Virginia-made products including peanuts, hot sauces, specialty seasonings, Route 11 potato chips, and a huge selection of Virginia Craft beer, Valley Pike is perfect for the holidays, sporting events, and other fun get-togethers.  Nicole Klingensmith, Director of Events, tells us that “these products are sure to be party pleasers and always pair well with local craft beer!”

Mr. Jamison’s Sub Shop and Beer Market / Waynesboro

Purchase beers from the cooler to go or to drink on the premises while you hang out at Mr. Jamison’s Sub Shop and Beer Market.  You can also enjoy subs, salads, and sports on TV.

Brew Ridge Taps / Lexington

Visit Brew Ridge Taps for a great craft beer experience. On Black Friday, the taphouse will be partnering with Pumpkin Seeds, a local boutique, for a Black Friday sale. Both stores will give customers a ten-percent discount when they produce receipts from the other business.

Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley (October 23, 2018) – There’s no better way to observe National American Beer Day on October 27 than by raising a glass and toasting the day’s namesake beverage at one of several stops along Virginia’s Shenandoah Beerwerks Trail.

With 14 breweries and microbreweries along the way, beer drinkers are sure to find a new favorite craft brew in the Valley:

Brothers Craft Brewing was started by – you guessed it – three brothers who focus on both production scale brewing and smaller experimental batches in Harrisonburg. Their year-round crowd pleasers include such brews as Great Outdoors, a crisp and clean Virginia pale ale; and Lil’ Hellion, a refreshing golden Helles lager.

Restless Moons Brewing Company brews its beers in small batches, five barrels at a time, allowing them to constantly rotate beers and maintain a diverse tap list. The brewery’s newest releases include its first imperial stout and a blueberry and cream gose.

The Friendly Fermenter is Harrisonburg’s first “brew on site” shop where guests can make their own beer. Along with a brewing supply shop, visitors can find home brew-inspired beers in the nanobrewery’s tasting room.

Three Notch’d Valley Collab House is a laboratory outpost for the flagship Three Notch’d Brewing Company in nearby Charlottesville. The Harrisonburg location specializes in collaborations with the community, locally sourced ingredients and smaller batches.

The tap room at Pale Fire Brewing Company features a wall of bookshelves, a cozy fireplace and 11 taps at the bar. Among six of the brewery’s flagship beers are Salad Days, an American saison with notes of grapefruit, peach and bubblegum; and Saving Grace Table Beer, based on the farmhouse beers Trappist monks used to brew for sustenance.

Stable Craft Brewing, which is located on a working horse farm, features “farm fresh” craft brews and food. Guests are also invited to tour the farm, which produces its own hops on site. The beers are rotated daily, but visitors can regularly find up to 16 options on tap and a locally-source menu designed to complement the craft beer.

Bedlam Brewing is a small-scale brew pub focused on crafting traditional ales with a Belgian and French influence. They also offer traditional and seasonal varieties that embrace the farming heritage of the valley. Its dining menu is anchored by handcrafted artisanal pizzas cooked in a wood-fired oven.

Queen City Brewing is the first post-Prohibition brewery in Staunton. Visitors can choose from about two dozen beers on top or brew a private batch from a selection of 80 recipes. If you visit on a Saturday, join the Brewer’s Apprentice Program to participate in the brewing process.

Several of the flagship beers at Shenandoah Valley Brewing Company are a nod to the Shenandoah Valley, including the Three Rivers Belgian, which is named for the three rivers that feed the south fork of the Shenandoah River.

Redbeard Brewing Company is a microbrewery with a 40-seat taproom that features eight to 10 beers on tap in downtown Staunton.  This small brewer handcrafts small batches of big beer using traditional methods, Belgian malts and American hops.

Inspired by a Native American blessing referencing the creator, the earth, the four directions, and back to the creator, Seven Arrows Brewing’s compass rose logo signifies the four directions and the four main ingredients of beer. In addition to the 12 beers regularly on tap, the taproom releases a new beer every Friday featuring a different infusion.

Housed in a renovated foundry, Basic City Beer Company leverages a natural spring to pump artesian water as the foundation of the

brewery’s beers, which are served across one of the largest single-pour zinc bar tops in the U.S. Live music, outdoor hammocks, and a “barcade” with pinball, pool, and more rounds out the space. Onsite restaurant, Hops Kitchen, infuses Basic City’s beer into their globally-inspired cuisine.

The flagship Devils Backbone Brewing Company in Roseland was such a success that it required an outpost facility to keep up with production. Devils Backbone Outpost Brewery & Tap Room is located on a hillside and houses the custom-built brewery, bottling and canning lines, tap room and an outdoor beer garden. Many of the brews here are inspired by the classic brewing traditions of Germany, England and Belgium.

The southernmost stop on the trail is Great Valley Farm Brewery, a farm brewery located in Rockbridge County’s Natural Bridge. The brewery specializes in small batch beers using ingredients that are grown on site. The farm also has its own on-site vineyard, hop planting, fruit and herb gardens.

Source: Click here to read more on Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley web site.

There’s no resisting autumn in the Shenandoah Valley. Whether you spent your day hiking and leaf peeping along the Appalachian Trail or munching apple cider donuts while solving a corn maze, you’re sure to be thirsty. Taste for yourself how Beerwerks Trail breweries are transitioning from the crisp, light tastes of summer into the hearty and complex flavors of fall.

Here are some of our breweries’ tastiest seasonal offerings.

Brothers Craft Brewing / Harrisonburg

Brothers Craft Brewing will hold its first Oktoberfest celebration on October 6. Dress in your dirndl & lederhosen and party down with German beer, food from Union Station Restaurant & Bar, music from Valley Brass Quintet, and games like skat and bier barrel roll. Oans, zwoa, drei, g’suffa!

• Fest Bier: This beer is a traditional German Marzen which, as a slightly darker, heartier lager, is perfect for the changing seasons. Available now.
• Blonde Betty:  Bold Rock provided fresh cider to be used in this Imperial Blonde Ale, and added spices create an apple pie-effect.  Come to the Valley Pike Farmers Market on October 11 for a tap takeover event featuring this limited collab brew. Late September or early October.
• Virginia Dark:  Brothers is bringing back its Black IPA as a taproom one-off this October.  This beer is a nice transitional brew from the IPAs of summer to the Porters/Stouts of fall/winter. October.

Seven Arrows Brewing / Augusta County

A star of Seven Arrows Brewing’s seasonal beer lineup this fall is Fallen Timbers Oktoberfest, which is brewed with Pilsner, Munich, Vienna, several specialty malts and German noble hops. This beer offers a distinct malt complexity with toasted, biscuit notes and a well-balanced bitterness. Stop in to taste this and the rest of the autumnal releases.

• Fallen Timbers Oktoberfest:  The Oktoberfest is brewed with Pilsner, Munich, Vienna, several specialty malts, and German noble hops. This beer offers a distinct malt complexity with toasted, biscuit notes, and a well-balanced bitterness. When poured, the beer is a beautiful amber color with a creamy off-white head.Available now.
• Bust A Coal: Our Apple Rauchbier is a new take on a fall beer.  Brewed using beechwood smoked and crystal malts, the beer imparts a slight smoky flavor with hints of caramel.  The malt profile is balanced using 30% cider from the Pacific Northwest, the beer offers an amazing aroma of fresh apples.  The overall impression is a lager beer that is dry on the palate yet crisp and refreshing and bursting with apple flavors and aroma.
• Sundog Milk Stout: This milk stout builds a tight, thick head like whipped cream. The aroma is of chocolate, with hints of coffee. The fluffy head coats your upper lip and its creaminess entices your palate. Initially roasty, mocha flavors rise, with a slight hop and roast bitterness in the finish. First week of November.
• Sour CranApple Lager:  2nd week of November.

Great Valley Farm Brewery / Natural Bridge

To mark the occasion of two successful years, Great Valley Farm Brewery will celebrate its second year with a release of the aptly named 2nd Anniversary Ale, which will be a Belgian-style Quadrupel. Come celebrate this fine brewery at their anniversary party on October 20.

• 2nd Anniversary Ale:  October 20.

Redbeard Brewing / Staunton

Redbeard Brewing regularly serves 12-16 beers a month and their 2018 seasonal offerings include a sweet potato-forward Sweet Potato Pie Porter that packs in 30% more pie filling (but less spice) than last year’s! Join the Redbeard crew to celebrate the release of the 2018 vintage of the acclaimed barrel-aged stout, Moriarty, on October 8 at noon.

• Sweet Potato Pie Porter: Available now.
• 2018 Moriarty: October 8.
  • W.L. Weller Bourbon Barrel Aged, Buffalo Trace Distilling.
  • Rye Whiskey Barrel Aged (Pikesville or Rittenhouse), Heaven Hill Distilling.
  • W.L. Weller Aged w/ Coffee. The Weller aged, further aged on whole coffee beans.

Friendly Fermenter / Harrisonburg

The Friendly Fermenter just turned one! Make plans to sample the special beer brewed just for the occasion.

• Maple Bourbon Brehfuss:  Bourbon Maple Syrup Barrel aged blonde coffee stout.
• Coconut Brehfuss:  Blonde Coffee Stout on toasted Coconut.

Other seasonal beers at the Friendly Fermenter this fall include:

• Almond Brothers:  Toast Almond Nut Brown Ale.
• Freshy Fresh:  VA Fresh Hopped Ale.
• Without a Doubt:  Black IPA. This is a homebrewer/Pale Fire colab for the Beans and Brews Festival on September 29.
• Bock of Eli:  Dunkles Bock.
• Great Big Bear Hug:  BBA Imperial Stout.
• Cherry Symbiosis:  Cherry Sour.
• Bittenbender:  Our “house” American Brown Ale.
• Zombie Kisses:  Citra/Azacca IPA will come out around Halloween.

Stable Craft Brewing / Augusta County

Celebrate the crisp autumn weather with these fall releases at Stable Craft Brewing. In addition to these set releases, Stable Craft will be working on bringing new unique, one-off, small-batch release beers to the tasting room.

• Fumpkin Ale:  Look for a nice amber color with a beautiful white frothy head on the pour with hints of caramel, crust, and spice on the nose. It’s like drinking pumpkin pie! Available now.
• Festbier Lager:  A delicious example of the Marzen style, you will find our Festbier slightly sweet and bready with a hint of the yeast on the nose. A beautiful orange color, look for notes of sweeter bread in the taste with a lighter body. Available now.
• Munich Dunkel Lager: Our Munich Dunkel is smooth, rich, and complex but not overly thick or heavy in body. Look for a deep amber hue with hints of caramel, bread, and German lager yeast on the nose, and caramel, bread, and slight roast notes with a very clean finish in the taste. Available now.
• Stable Craft Whiskey Sour:  October 6.  
• Winter Warmer with gingerbread spice: November 17.

Pale Fire Brewing Company / Harrisonburg

With its cozy tap room complete with fireplace, outdoor patio, and collection of vinyl waiting to spin, Pale Fire Brewing Company provides a perfect setting to enjoy a seasonal beer menu this fall, which includes late September and early October returns of the following beers.

• Ocean Song:  Gose.
• Razor’s Edge:  A rye pale ale in which two-row barley supports a vivid rye character, while Columbus hops finish clean, thanks to piney Centennial and Warrior bittering hops.
• Lucille:  An oatmeal stout brewed with heaps of oat flakes for a full-bodied, silky-smooth mouthfeel and rich malty flavor.

Devils Backbone Outpost Tap Room & Kitchen / Lexington

Devils Backbone Brewing Company turns 10 this November, and they’re marking the occasion with a special draft-only release of Milestone 10 at both the outpost and basecamp locations. This beer’s style will be announced soon. The 10 Year Anniversary Pack features favorite throwback beers selected by fans.

• O’Fest: A lager inspired by traditional Oktoberfest bier, O’fest is reddish amber in color, medium in body, with rich malty notes of caramel and toasted dark bread. (six pack bottles and on draft) August – November..
• Stories from the Trail Collab Pack: (mixed 12-pack and on draft) September.
• Tres Cray IPA:  Tres Cray is a hoppy collaborative IPA in which three Devils Backbone brewers each pick a favorite hop to go into the boil kettle and another hop each for dry hopping. Built on a base of Pilsner, Vienna, and Maris Otter Pale malts, Tres Cray shifts in character with the different hops used each brew.(draft only) September.
• Cocoa Bear: Midnight black, full-bodied, with dark chocolate flavors coming from the marriage of imported cocoa and roasted & caramelized malts. Six types of malts and two types of cocoa nibs go into this chocolate lovers beer. (draft only) October.
• 10 Year Anniversary Pack:   (mixed 12 pack and on draft) November.
• Danzig:  A Baltic-style porter that blends a strong English porter with a Germanic lager approach. This fairly robust, strong black lager has notes of chocolate and coffee with hints of caramelized sugar(six pack bottles and on draft) November – February.

It’s almost football, leaf-raking, and corn maze season, but don’t break out the pumpkin spice latte just yet: we still have a few weeks to catch the end-of-season sun and fun on the water. Whether you enjoy kicking back and relaxing, learning a new sport, or the spray-in-your eyes thrill of whitewater, we’ve got some destinations for your final summer splashes. Don’t forget to conclude each outing with a stop at one of our Beerwerks Trail breweries.

Swimming

Fortunately, the Beerwerks Trail lies close to a number of natural gems that remain open well past Labor Day.

Sherando Lake Recreation Area

25 minutes from Seven Arrows Brewing.

If you’re looking for a safe place to swim in a beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains setting, Sherando Lake ought to be on your shortlist. Nestled in the George Washington National Forest, Sherando Lake Recreation Area offers a gradual-entry sandy beach with plenty of room to lounge, a roped-off swimming area for the kiddos, bathroom and shower facilities, a picnic area, hiking trails, and camping. You can also kayak, canoe or fish on the 25-acre lake. Day use fee applies.

Riprap Trail Swimming Hole

15 minutes from Stable Craft Brewing.

Hikers who enjoy working for their swims should check out the magnificent, ice-cold swimming hole on the Riprap Trail. Access the trail from Rt. 612 in Crimora for a family-friendly round trip of four miles. Determined hikers can make a day of it by taking on the entire 9.5-mile circuit hike, which starts in Shenandoah National Park and includes Riprap Trail and Wildcat Ridge Trail. Many consider this hike one of the best loops in the southern end of Shenandoah National Park.

Todd Lake Recreation Area

45 minutes from Shenandoah Valley Brewing Co.

It’s not private enough for skinny dipping, but Todd Lake is a small, quiet lake northwest of Staunton that’s a great fit for a family swimming adventure. The 7.5-acre lake was constructed in 1963 to control flooding, but now features a sandy beach with picnic facilities, hiking trails, a bathhouse, camping, and a playground. Day access fee applies.

Cave Mountain Lake

25 minutes from Great Valley Farm Brewery.

The Civilian Conservation Corps created Cave Mountain Lake Recreation Area in the 1930s. Now maintained by the U.S. Forest Service, seven-acre Cave Mountain Lake is a prime destination for swimming, fishing, camping, and hikes of various lengths and difficulties. Families can enjoy the cool mountain water and the sandy beach set against a forested background. Day use fee applies.

Canoeing & Kayaking

Beerwerks Trail adventurers who thrill at grasping a paddle or slicing through whitewater should check out these sure bets.

Goshen Pass

45 minutes from Redbeard Brewing Company.

When the Maury River cut Goshen Pass through Little North Mountain, it made both a beautiful gorge and the site of one of the most popular whitewater adventures in Virginia. On this six-mile trip, expect some serious class II, class III, and even class IV rapids when you hit Devil’s Kitchen and Corner Rapid. Need to slow your racing heart? Tie up your kayak and lounge on the rocks to view the dramatic scenery.

Middle River from Westview to Verona

15 minutes from Bedlam Brewing.

The Middle River runs north through the Shenandoah Valley and merges with the South River to become the South fork of the Shenandoah River. Stretch your arms on a relatively gentle section of the Middle River in Augusta County running from Westview to Verona. The rapids along this 25-mile float top out at class II. Enjoy the lovely country scenery and the easily accessed put in and put out spots.

Waynesboro Water Trail

10 minutes from Basic City Beer Co.

The Waynesboro Water Trail is the City’s newest park, which extends along four picturesque miles of the South River from the Ridgeview Park Boat Ramp to the Basic Park Boat Ramp. The ramps make putting your boat in the water a cinch, and the mild class I and class II rapids are great for beginners. During the summer pool season, paddlers without gear of their own can rent kayaks from the Paddle in the Park program. Another good place to rent equipment is Rockfish Gap Outfitters.

Guided Trips with Massanutten Adventures

25 minutes from Three Notch’d Valley Collab House.

Massanutten Adventures has been leading guided canoe, kayak, and tube excursions for 19 years along the Shenandoah River as it runs parallel to Shenandoah National Park. The canoe/kayak season runs from April to October and the tubing season runs from Memorial Day to Labor Day. What better way to see the Shenandoah Valley than from the perspective of its namesake river?

Everything Else

Here’s the deets on stand-up paddleboarding, rafting, tubing, diving, and waterslides!

Stand-up paddleboarding at Douthat State Park

45 minutes from Great Valley Farm Brewery.

Want to blast your core while having a blast? Looking for a sport you can get comfortable doing in an hour or so? Stand-up paddleboarding might be for you. A cross between surfing and kayaking, this sport can be enjoyed on both flat and rougher water. A great spot to test your balance is the 50-acre lake at Douthat State Park. You can rent SUPs (and canoes, paddle boats, and hydrobikes) from Memorial Day through Labor Day or bring your own. Even if you don’t get on the water, this park is worth visiting for its beauty and historical significance.

White Water Rafting or River Tubing with Outdoor Adventure Experiences Inc.

20  minutes from Pale Fire Brewing Co.

Gather your friends and family for a shared and thrilling experience of the Shenandoah Valley from one of Outdoor Adventure Experiences Inc.’s guided white water rafts.While you won’t stay dry, the size of the rafts makes them easy to steer and difficult to flip, so you probably won’t end in the water. If it’s cold – these trips launch as long as the temperature is above 50 degrees – you can rent a wetsuit! If you’d rather float in a tube, you can do that from May to September along a quiet section of the river. Participants ride on private tubes, but also have a chance to play and bounce on a giant communal tube. This company also offers full and half-day kayaking trips from April to November.

Scuba Diving Lessons from Scuba Buddies

10 minutes from The Friendly Fermenter.

If you’re itching to breathe (and see the Valley from) underwater, or if you are already an experienced scuba diver looking for additional certifications, equipment, or information about diving spots in the area, contact Scuba Buddies (Harrisonburg) or Dive Connections (Charlottesville).

Ride the Slides at Massanutten Resort Waterpark

25 minutes from Brothers Craft Brewing.

Since the indoor pool at at Massanutten Waterpark is always a balmy 84 degrees, you can hit the slides and wave pools even after coat weather arrives. The park, a top-ten favorite of Parents Magazine, Budget Travel Magazine and USA Today, offers indoor, outdoor, and waterless arcade-game fun. Rocket headfirst down the Rockingham Racer slide, avoid water cannons in the Massanutten Meltdown, or surf in a wave pool. The youngest members of your party can splash in the Frog Pond.

The Shenandoah Beerwerks Trail is packed with months’ worth of adventure thanks to our location in the Shenandoah Valley (1.5 hours from DC or Richmond, 3 hours from Hampton Roads,) but two days will let you experience some of the best we have to offer. Boutique hotels and rustic farm lodging, craveable food, rockin’ music and outdoor adventure fill out your beercation. Here’s our 48-hour guide in nine steps.

FRIDAY:

Step 1: Check into Your Hotel

From fancy boutique hotels to rustic farm experiences, towns along the Beerwerks Trail boast many great places to stay. These home bases will serve you well as you explore everything the Valley has to offer.

• Staunton’s Historic Hotels
  • Stonewall Jackson Hotel
  • The Blackburn Inn
  • Inn at Old Virginia
• Waynesboro’s Romantic B&B’s
  • The Iris Inn
  • Belle Hearth Bed and Breakfast
• Augusta County’s Rustic Farm Lodging
  • Blueberry Hill Farm
  • Hermitage Hill Farm & Stables/Stable Craft Brewing
  • The Inn at MeadowCroft
• Lexington/Rockbridge Lodging
  • The Georges
  • Natural Bridge Historic Hotel and Conference Center
  • A B&B at Llewellyn Lodge
• Harrisonburg’s Overnight Elegance
  • Joshua Wilton House
  • Hotel Madison

Step 2: Pick up Your Beerwerks Passport

Toast your weekend with a cold one and earn a cool t-shirt while you’re doing it. Get your Beerwerks Passport at participating breweries and the following visitor centers:

• Harrisonburg’s Hardesty-Higgins House Visitor Center,
• Lexington and Rockbridge Visitor Centers
• Staunton Visitor Center
• Rockfish Gap Tourist Information Center

Step 3: Get Some Grub

The diverse restaurant scene along the Beerwerks Trail celebrates craft food and emphasizes farm-to-table freshness. If you’re visiting a brewery, make sure to take time to explore nearby restaurants, too.

• Waynesboro:  Basic City Brewing and Hop’s Kitchen or  Jake’s Bar & Grill
• Lexington:  The Palms or The Southern Inn
• Staunton:  Chicano Boy Taco or Table 44
• Augusta County:  Stable Craft Brewing or Nobos Kitchen (located at Seven Arrows Brewing)
• Harrisonburg: Jack Brown’s Beer and Burger Joint or Local Chop and Grill House
• See our “What We’re Eating as We Explore the Beerwerks Trail” featuring some of the best food along the trail.

SATURDAY

Step 4: Fuel up for Your Day

You have a busy day ahead of you. Recharge at a local coffee spot and visit a nearby farmers’ market for some caffeine and food.

• Lexington:  Lexington Coffee Roasters Roastery and Espresso Bar and the Rockbridge Farmers’ Market
• Augusta County:  Perk Place Coffee Company and either the market in Staunton or Waynesboro
• Staunton:  Réunion and the Staunton Farmers’ Market
• Harrisonburg:  Black Sheep Coffee and the Harrisonburg Farmers’ Market
• Waynesboro: The French Press and the Waynesboro Farmers Market

Step 5: Head Outdoors

It’s time to take a hike and see what all the Shenandoah Valley fuss is about. Get outside and breathe in the fresh air. Pair your adventure with a post-hike beer at a nearby brewery.

• Augusta County:  Natural Chimneys Park is 35 minutes from Stable Craft Brewing
• Natural Bridge:  Natural Bridge State Park is 12 minutes from Great Valley Farm Brewery
• Waynesboro:  Humpback Rocks is 15 minutes from Basic City Beer Co.
• Staunton:  Elliot Knob is 20 minutes from Redbeard Brewing Company
• Harrisonburg:  Hone Quarry Recreation Area is 30 minutes from Restless Moons Brewing
• See http://explore.beerwerkstrail.com/ for more suggestions

Step 6: Explore Our Unique Downtowns

• Staunton
  • Perhaps best known for its Victorian architecture, the American Shakespeare Center and its proximity to beautiful natural areas, Staunton also has a vibrant downtown with an active arts and music scene. In addition to dining choices that are reminiscent of a larger city and a variety of independent shops, Staunton’s central location also makes it an ideal jumping-off point to explore the rest of the Valley.
• Harrisonburg
  • There’s so much to do in “The Friendly City!” Harrisonburg’s walkable 40-block downtown is rich in unique restaurants, cutting-edge arts and culture, shopping, history and college-town cool. Plan to visit some of its fine museums and parks. Harrisonburg is proud to be the first recognized Arts and Cultural and Culinary District in Virginia. Outdoor enthusiasts can easily access Shenandoah National Park or the Washington and Jefferson National Forest.
• Lexington
  • Lexington is steeped in history, and with two colleges located in town, there’s always something happening. The charming downtown offers many of fine restaurants, galleries and shops, and its location deep in the beautiful Shenandoah Valley makes it easy for visitors to access the surrounding natural wonders.
•  

• Waynesboro
  • Waynesboro is divinely placed to be your gateway to outdoor adventure. Nature fans can enjoy hiking the Appalachian Trail, driving the Skyline Drive or the Blue Ridge Parkway, or exploring a wealth of in-town parks and green spaces. History buffs can learn about historical figures like Mad Anthony Wayne and locations like the Crozet railroad tunnel. In addition, Waynesboro’s growing cultural scene includes regular festivals like the Fall Foliage Art Show, Virginia Street Arts Festival, and Virginia Chili Blues n’ Brews, making it a can’t-miss place to visit.
•  

Step 7: See a Show at a Brewery Serving up Live Music on Saturday Night 

Several breweries along the Beerwerks Trail often host live music on Saturday nights. Check their schedules for a chance to drink your favorite brew and enjoy some tunes.

• Lexington & Natural Bridge
  • Devils Backbone Outpost Tap Room & Kitchen
  • Great Valley Farm Brewery
• Waynesboro
  • Basic City
• Augusta County
  • Seven Arrows
• Harrisonburg
  • The Friendly Fermenter
  • Restless Moons
• Staunton
  • Bedlam Brewing
  • Shenandoah Valley Brewing Company

SUNDAY

Step 8: Enjoy a Little Brunch

Sleep in, rise late, and then start the day right with a relaxing brunch. Here are some sure bets in each area.

• Staunton:  The Shack
• Harrisonburg: Clementine Cafe
• Waynesboro:  Weasie’s Kitchen
• Lexington:  Bistro on Main
• Augusta County:  Nobos Kitchen (located at Seven Arrows Brewing) or White’s Wayside

Step 9: Hit up a Brewery for a Final Farewell

Before you say “happy trails,” make sure you stop at one more brewery to

• Fill up your growler to go
• Plan your next trip to the Valley to complete your Passport

And Lastly, Start Planning Your Beercation!

View Trail Map

 

More Getaway Ideas:

Places to Stay	Events	Things to Do

The Shenandoah Valley celebrates not only craft beer but also craft food. From nationally acclaimed eateries to local food trucks, the restaurant scene along the Beerwerks Trail offers a wide variety and emphasizes farm-to-table freshness. If you’re visiting a brewery, make sure to take time to explore nearby restaurants, too.

Staunton

A Salvadoran pupuseria, a Mexican-American taquería, European pastry shops, and widely known restaurants like The Shack (James Beard-award double nominee) and Zynodoa give Staunton the restaurant chops of a much larger city. Gloria’s Pupuseria has grown from a farmers’ market favorite to a cozy storefront restaurant where pupusas and enchiladas served fresh off the grill will make your mouth water.  Chicano Boy Taco is a gem that serves handmade tacos and mission-style burritos inspired by its chef’s heritage. Get some Southern comfort food with a twist at the recently opened Table 44, where you can augment your meal with a loaded Bloody Mary. Sharing the same space, Paris Cake Company, provides an opportunity to grab a beautiful treat on your way out. And if you prefer your desserts frozen, taste gelato from The Split Banana, where you’ll find all the traditional flavors, plus cocoa ancho, pineapple basil, Guinness Extra Stout, and other house specialties.

Lexington and Rockbridge County

Lexington and Rockbridge County boast a wealth of culinary experiences. If you’re in Rockbridge County visiting Great Valley Farm Brewery or the James River, check out Natty B’s, a country store, for daily lunch specials and made-from-scratch pies and desserts. Along Lexington’s picturesque streets you’ll find Southern-style barbecue, farm-to-table fine dining, upscale bistros, vegan lunch joints, ice cream shops and everything in between. Those looking to score a craft beer and a succulent burger prepared with local beef will find Pure Eats a solid choice. Top off your meal with a donut in the day’s special flavor. The “casual and contemporary” atmosphere at Bistro on Main provides the perfect background for savory and unique fare like the shrimp and grits or apricot-glazed duck breast you’ll savor for brunch, lunch, or dinner. Make reservations at The Southern Inn and spend your next special occasion appreciating classic and contemporary American cuisine. Later, for some lively entertainment, fine food, and cocktails visit Haywood’s Piano Bar. Finish up your dinner or your day with a trip to Sweet Things Ice Cream Shop, a Lexington staple, which delights locals and tourists alike.

Augusta County

Craving sauerbraten, jägerschnitzel or a good German beer? For a flavorsome meal in the county, check out Edelweiss German Restaurant in Greenville, where you can devour classic German dishes in the lodge-style dining area while enjoying live music. Make sure you’re hungry in Churchville for Highland County trout or a sandwich on original-recipe WhiteWay bread at White’s Wayside. Rather feast on barbecue and you’re in Stuart’s Draft? Try Sooner BBQ, ranked #2 for Valley barbecue by the Valley Choice Awards. Alternatively, stop in at Valley Pike BBQ Co., a food truck specializing in Texas-style, slow-smoked barbecue located at Valley Pike Market (also home to Old School Burgers and Baja Burrito). If you want a view with your meal, Stable Craft Brewing offers a menu that focuses on locally-sourced ingredients paired with beer (of course). After enjoying sandwiches, burgers with names like “Southern Pleasure,” and skillet plates, spend time petting the horses or playing a yard game. Seven Arrows Brewing and Nobos Kitchen also offer an opportunity to pair craft beer with inspired American fare. Order the fried pickles and the fish and chips!

Waynesboro

If you’re craving an all-American breakfast, Asian fusion, Cajun food, or southern barbecue, Waynesboro has it on the menu! Start your day with breakfast at Weasie’s Kitchen, a favorite of locals and A.T. hikers, offering comfort food for every taste. If you want Chinese, Japanese, or Thai, travel to Silk Road and sample dishes that are as artful as they are flavorful. Hop’s Kitchen is where “craft food meets craft beer.” Located within Basic City Beer Co., Chef Mike uses local providers and infuses Basic City’s beer into his dishes inspired by his travels around the world. Order a five-star burger made with locally grown beef from Jake’s Bar & Grill, or try one of their steaks using beef from the owner’s farm. And don’t forget that the barbecue is always smoking and the fish is always frying at The Fishin’ Pig, a restaurant with a Friday dinner special called “Eat like a pig, drink like a fish!” Now that’s a call to action!

Harrisonburg

Whether you’re looking for the upscale meals offered at The Joshua Wilton House and Local Chop and Grill House or a quick burger and a beer as you stroll downtown, Harrisonburg has a wealth of options. Better yet, many of the independent downtown restaurants source local ingredients. Treat yourself to an inventive cocktail at Food.Bar.Food while sampling some “global comfort food” like lo mein, burgers, falafel, and potato croquettes. Stop in at Jack Brown’s Beer and Burger Joint for an award-winning burger menu featuring Snake River Farms’ Wagyu beef and a massive tap list boasting over 100 local and international beers. If modern Southern cuisine and whiskey are your passions, don’t miss Jimmy Madison’s, where connoisseurs can sip premium whiskey and eat entrées like honey-glazed scallops and drunken shrimp and grits. And with just a short drive into the countryside, you can indulge in Smiley’s Ice Cream at Mount Crawford Creamery. The ice cream, made with the creamery’s freshest ingredients, embodies its motto, “Bringing happiness to you, one scoop at a time.”

Breweries with food and food trucks

To eliminate some of those tough food decisions, some of our breweries have onsite kitchens or regularly visiting food trucks. Many others welcome outside snacks or carry out.

Stable Craft Brewing: See above.

Bedlam Brewing: Elevated, locally-sourced pub fare and artisanal pizza menu.

Basic City Beer Company: See Hops Kitchen above.

Seven Arrows Brewing: See Nobos Kitchen above.

Redbeard Brewing Company: Regular food trucks. See schedule.

Queen City Brewing: Friday night food truck.

Great Valley Farm Brewery:  Food trucks weekly. See schedule.

Brothers Craft Brewing: Weekly food trucks. Check schedule.

If your idea of a perfect night involves relaxing under the stars listening to some great live summer music, we’ve got you covered. From individual shows, to a festival weekend, and an entire season of concerts, here’s a spectacular lineup of outdoor music. You can take in the natural beauty of the Shenandoah Valley while your favorite bands light up the stage. Afterwards, head to a nearby Beerwerks Trail brewery to top off your day.

Remember to check out our events page: Beerwerks breweries schedule live music all year long.

Lime Kiln Theater

May 4 – September 22

10 minutes from Devils Backbone Outpost Brewery and Tap Room

The Lime Kiln Theater offers music and theater in the trees and under the stars. Originally an abandoned turn-of-the-century lime quarry, the venue is now a prime spot for local, regional, and national outdoor music and performance art. Genres represented in the 2018 season include bluegrass, rock, folk, country, and blues. Lime Kiln welcomes The Travelin’ McCourys, Bruce Hornsby & The Noisemakers, Turnpike Troubadours with special guest Charley Crockett, and others.

Food, local wine, and beer from Devils Backbone will be available for purchase at all shows.

• Complete 2018 schedule and tickets
• Season tickets
• Lexington-area lodging

Shenandoah Valley Blues & Brews Festival

June 16, 2 – 9 p.m.

15 minutes from Shenandoah Valley Brewing Co.

For the 10th year, the Shenandoah Valley Blues & Brews Festival brings you award-winning music and fantastic Virginia beer. The festival’s new location at The Club at Ironwood offers convenient access for I-81 travelers and fantastic panoramic views of the Blue Ridge. Set up your blankets and lawn chairs and enjoy Samantha Fish, Sun-Dried Opossum, Kiz Carter and Juke Jackson, and more. The beer will represent a number of Virginia microbreweries. You’ll also be able to sample a variety of local BBQ and browse booths by craft vendors. This event benefits the Staunton Augusta Art Center.

• Click here for tickets and more information.
• Lodging

Red Wing Roots

July 13-15

35 minutes from Stable Craft Brewing

If you’re dialed into the festival community, you’ve surely heard about the Red Wing Roots Music Festival. Now in its sixth year, the family-friendly event sets some of the biggest names in folk music against a stunning backdrop of 120-foot limestone towers at Natural Chimneys Park. The event’s stellar lineup includes founding band The Steel Wheels, Trampled By Turtles, Josh Ritter, and many more on four different stages. Enjoy a beer garden and food and craft vendors. Red Wing Roots also features many activities for when you want to focus on enjoying the beautiful outdoor environment. Embrace outdoor activities like daily hikes, runs, and yoga. Kids’ activities include a climbing wall, an instrument “petting zoo,” mural painting, a slackline and a variety of outdoor games. New this year is a pick-along jam session led by teachers from Red Wing Academy  and The Front Porch.

• Complete 2018 line-up
• Tickets
• 2018 camping at Natural Chimneys is sold out, but here’s a link to other nearby campgrounds and lodging.

Virginia Chili, Brews  n Blues

September 22, 3 – 9 p.m.

Less than a mile from Basic City Beer Co.

Don’t miss the 11th Virginia Chili Blues n Brews Festival in Lumos Plaza in downtown Waynesboro. Close out your summer and start on the fall festival season with this spicy mix of chili, beer, and blues music. Browse the artisan and exhibitor booths for something special, and if you have a secret recipe up your sleeve, you should throw down in the People’s Choice chili cook-off. Strut your stuff – there’s a lot of cash on the line. Even if you don’t enter the contest, plan to eat your fill of chili while enjoying the musical stylings of Kiz Carter and Juke Jackson, The Bone Baby Gators featuring Crystal Armentrout, Sun Dried Opossum, and Anthony Rosano and the Conqueroos. Cool off from all the hot chili with selections from both micro and mega breweries. There’s sure to be something for all tastes.

• Musical lineup
• Tickets
• Lodging

Eager to indulge your twin passions for biking the Shenandoah Valley and drinking craft beer this spring? Since nothing tastes better than a cold glass of beer when you’re tired and sweaty, we’ve rounded up our favorite routes to get you pedaling in proximity to some of the best breweries around. All you need to do is tune up your bike, celebrate the great outdoors, and work up a serious thirst.

Mountain Biking

If you get your thrills from trails and hills, the following rides are sure to make your quads burn!

Massanutten’s Mountain Bike Park

30 minutes from Three Notch’d Brewing Company.

For an adventure guaranteed to spike your adrenaline, grab your mountain bike and hurtle down the ski lift-served trails at Massanutten’s Mountain Bike Park. You’ll get the thrills of the downhill without sweating the climbs. The park offers trails for riders of all abilities as well as private lessons. The Pathway Package includes a 75-minute lesson, bike rental and three hours of trail use. The Dirt Groms Package caters to kids ages 9 – 14 with no adults necessary.  Experienced riders might choose 4-hour and 8-hour rental and lift ticket options. Don’t forget your action camera!

Rocktown Trails at Hillandale Park

10 minutes from Pale Fire Brewing.

If you’re looking to give your mountain bike a workout in downtown Harrisonburg, check out Rocktown Trails at Hillandale Park. The park’s system of stacked-loop, single track trails offers three levels of difficulty for riders. The easiest route is beginner-friendly, but the loops get more challenging if you’re looking for tougher stuff.  The trails, cared for by the Shenandoah Valley Bike Club, stay in great shape and feature manmade and natural obstacles. Be prepared to share this popular area with hikers and runners.

Montgomery Hall Park

5 minutes from Shenandoah Valley Brewing Co.

Riders looking for thrills in Staunton need go no further than Montgomery Hall Park, which boasts 4.1 miles of single track laid out in three marked trails. The twisting trails offer switchbacks and roots as well as steep drops and climbs. There’s not much in the way of rock obstacles, but you can still get plenty dirty here. Since the trails are maintained by Staunton Parks and Recreation as well as local riders, they stay in excellent condition.

The Southern Traverse

1 hour and 15 minutes from Bedlam Brewing

Hard-core mountain bikers rave about The Southern Traverse, a 36-mile ride through the Dry River and Deerfield Ranger Districts of George Washington National Forest. This route will blast you with over 3,000 feet of elevation gain, much of it in the first four blistering miles. Once you summit Shenandoah Mountain, there’s an incredible 11-mile single track ride along the ridge, several extremely technical rocky areas, and a thrilling five-mile section that descends over 1,100 feet. The final section of the route follows rolling country roads, so you’ll be able to get your heart rate under control before heading back to town.

Road Biking

For amazing road biking routes in the area, check out Bike the Valley, which maps and details lots of different routes at different distances, appropriate for varying skill levels. Here are some of our favorites:

Waynesboro Dooms Day Loop

3 minutes from Basic City Beer Co.

Because of its distance and limited elevation gain, the Waynesboro Dooms Day Loop (12.5 miles) is considered easy to intermediate. It begins and ends in downtown Waynesboro, but heads out of town following the river for three miles before turning at the Dooms Crossing Railroad stop and returning along the base of the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains. The second half of this ride is mostly gentle downhill, but you’ll still deserve a beer treat for finishing.

Staunton Frog Pond Smoky Row

1 minute from Redbeard Brewing Company.

For an intermediate ride, try the 22-mile Staunton Frog Pond Smoky Row route. It starts in Staunton but quickly leaves to embrace the rolling hills and spectacular scenery west and south of town. The loop offers sustained climbs, downhill glides, and recovery sections. The ride, which is entirely on paved roads, concludes back in Staunton.

Buena Vista – Blue Ridge Parkway

20 minutes from Great Valley Farm Brewery.

If you’re serious about earning your beer, take on the challenge of the Buena Vista – Blue Ridge Parkway ride and its 4,000-foot plus elevation gain. This route is considered difficult due to its relentless hills and 45-mile length, and you’ll earn major bragging rights if you complete it. Starting in Buena Vista, you’ll quickly begin the arduous task of hauling human and bike four miles up to the crest of the Blue Ridge. Don’t celebrate the end of your workout yet, however, because the stunning Blue Ridge Parkway has serious hills of its own. When it’s time to come down, you’ll be descending a very steep and twisty road to Vesuvius. The grade is steeper than 20% in places, but the final few miles back to town are relatively gentle. Though demanding, this ride is also extremely beautiful. Make sure you enjoy the view, especially along the parkway.

Biking with the Family

If you’re looking for a family outing that will please even the youngest members of your crew, try one of these easy, family-friendly rides.

Chessie Nature Trail

5 minutes from Devils Backbone Outpost.

Originally a railroad bed for the Chesapeake & Ohio Railroad, the flat Chessie Nature Trail stretches for 7.2 miles between Lexington and Buena Vista and is great for riders of all ages and abilities. The route has parking at both ends and can be completed as a longer out-and-back ride. It follows the Maury River and the rural surroundings alternate between wooded areas and farmland. The final mile near Buena Vista parallels a steep cliff along the river. Look for cows and wildlife along the way.

South River Greenway

10 minutes from Seven Arrows Brewing.

The South River Greenway trail system will one day connect Waynesboro’s Constitution Park with Ridgeview Park and eventually the Crozet Tunnel. For now, the trail stretches for 1.2 miles along the South River and connects Constitution Park with the YMCA. The short ride is flat and paved, and the scenery provides interest as it varies from river to industrial to park, making it suitable for even the youngest of cyclists. You can park at either end of the Greenway.

The Shenandoah Beerwerks Trail pairs the craft beer experience with a combination of activities and attractions that uniquely reflect the region’s recreational and cultural activities. Trail updates and news can be found on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

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!

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.

Happy Hour Yoga and Brews

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Location:  Shenandoah Yoga followed by Three Notch’d Valley Collab House

Dates: March 2

Time: 5:30 PM-8:30 PM

Cost: $12

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Winter Bend & Brews Taproom Yoga

Location: Shenandoah Yoga followed by Three Notch’d Valley Collab House

Dates: March 3, March 10, March 17

Time: 10:30 AM-12:30 PM

Cost: $10 and includes a complimentary beer

“OM” Brew at 7 Arrows

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Location: 7 Arrows Brewing Company

Dates: Saturdays

Time 10:30 AM-11:30 AM

Cost: $10 for the yoga and includes a complementary beer after you are done!

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Center of Gravity Yoga & Pilates Offers Outdoor Yoga at Great Valley Farm Brewery

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Location: Great Valley Farm Brewery

Dates: First Wednesday of the month during April, May, and June

Time: 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM.  The brewery will be open until 7:30 and will offer special pricing on draft beers for all yoga guests.

Cost: $10

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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

Just in time for Valentines Day, get ready for stunningly complex and creative chocolate flavors from these fine breweries along Virginia’s Shenandoah Beerwerks Trail.

Cranberry Chocolate Porter • Seven Arrows Brewing / Augusta County

Brewed in collaboration with Rock Bottom Brewing, this cranberry porter has rich chocolate flavors that are accentuated by the tart flavors of cranberries.  Although dark in appearance, this beer is wonderfully balanced and full of flavor. On tap now.

Anniversary Molé Stout • Brothers Craft Brewing / Harrisonburg

To mark the occasion of five successful years, Brothers Craft Brewing has released a special Anniversary Molé Stout that features traditional Mexican mole flavors—cacao nibs, vanilla, cinnamon and chiles. On tap now.

Cavallo Imperial Stout • Stable Craft Brewing / Augusta County

This year-aged Imperial American Stout designed specifically for the Catoctin Creek Rye barrels it dwelled in. Pouring pitch black, look for huge notes of roast and chocolate with rye whiskey and vanilla on the nose. Thick and creamy, this balanced, big bodied stout has all the chocolate and roast you can pull from the malt with nuances of caramel, oak, and vanilla from the barrels themselves. 12.5% alcohol by volume. On tap now.

Noir LUCAS Porter • Wolfe Street Brewing / Harrisonburg

This robust porter is layered with flavor coming from nine different malts. Immediate notes of dark chocolate and coffee come through as soon as you take the first sip. Dark fruit and toffee linger on the palate with a hint of sweetness. 7% alcohol by volume.  On tap now.

Momentary Lapse of Raisin • The Friendly Fermenter / Harrisonburg

An imperial chocolate raisin oatmeal stout, with a hint of warmth to keep out the cold. On tap now.

Gringo-Mexican Molé Stout • Basic City Brewing Company / Waynesboro

Gringo-Mexican Molé Stout infused with chocolate, vanilla, cinnamon & habanero! 9% alcohol by volume.  Available January 25, 2018.

Danzig • Devils Backbone Outpost Brewery & Taproom / Lexington

A Baltic-style porter that blends a strong English porter with a Germanic lager approach. This fairly robust, strong black lager has notes of chocolate and coffee with hints of caramelized sugar. Characteristics are black, roast, and chocolate. 8% alcohol by volume. Anticipated release date in late January or early February, 2018.

Loco Cocoa Stout • Shenandoah Valley Brewing Company / Staunton

A bold chocolate flavor supported by a plum raisin grain bill. 6.5% alcohol by volume. We are brewing this dry stout with a low hop profile and a moderate but clean bitterness. Estimated release date February 10, 2018.

Cocoa Bear • Devils Backbone Outpost Brewery & Taproom / Lexington

Midnight black, full-bodied, with dark chocolate flavors coming from the marriage of imported cocoa and roasted & caramelized malts. Six types of malts and two types of cocoa nibs go into this chocolate lovers beer. 11.3% alcohol by volume. Anticipated release date in February, 2018.

This list will continue to be updated. Please check back soon for additional releases.

 

 

 

 

Surrounded by mountains, today’s Shenandoah Valley is one of the most popular destinations in Virginia for taking in the spectacular colors of the fall foliage. Explore the Shenandoah Valley, along the Beerwerks Trail as you discover authentic cities and towns, cultural attractions, outdoor exploration, live theater and local farm to table dining which give the Valley its distinct flavor which is best paired with craft beer!

Start your journey in Harrisonburg at Hugo Kohl’s Museum of American Jewelry Design. This multi-sensory museum was designed to give visitors a visual and audible experience of jewelry manufacturing. An elevated floor plan allows your group to browse the retail store while watching artisans create in the workshop below. Guided tours available or take a self-guided tour and explore the museum at your own pace. Located next door, stop by Pale Fire Brewing Company a cozy tap room complete with fireplace, outdoor patio, and collection of vinyl waiting to spin. Eleven taps feature a range of classic beer styles including an American Saison that won Bronze at the Great American Beer Festival. After your tasting, have a home-cooked meal at O’Neill’s Grill. For over 15 years, they’ve been serving up fresh, scratch-made food. Best known for their indulgent cookie skillets created for classic dessert lovers.

Traveling south to Staunton, discover the life and legacy of the 28th President at the Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library and Museum. Take a guided tour of the Presbyterian Manse where Wilson was born and spent the first year of his life. Next stop, is the museum which includes Wilson’s Pierce-Arrow limousine, an interactive World War I trench and seven exhibit galleries. Round out the day with a beer and a little Shakespeare. A true microbrewery in downtown Staunton, Redbeard Brewing Company brews small batches of big beer, handcrafted by one brewer from beginning to end using traditional methods.  Before your show, have an authentic, Italian meal at Emilio’s. This upscale restaurant makes for a fine dining experience serving multiple courses and an extensive wine list. Afterward, stroll on over to the American Shakespeare Center where Shakespeare is serious fun!

On your next day check out Humpback Rock in Augusta County—arguably one of the Valley’s most well-known hiking destinations. Located off the scenic, Blue Ridge Parkway, this challenging two-mile hike offers amazing views from the top of this popular rock outcropping. For those looking for an easy leg-stretcher start at the Humpback Visitor Center and take the Mountain Farm Trail (.25 mile) leading to the Outdoor Farm Museum where you can tour a 19th century log cabin and outbuildings complete with costumed interpreters providing demonstrations of subsistence farmers. After you’ve worked up an appetite, experience a true working farm brewery at Stable Craft. With opportunities to tour hop fields, pet the horses, and take a behind scenes tour of the brewery. Afterward, enjoy a tasting of their farm fresh beers and lunch featuring an agri-pub menu.

Head back to your hotel to freshen up before a night out in Waynesboro. Have a truly southern meal at the Fishin’ Pig. Serving a fusion of Grady’s Memphis BBQ and Shorty’s Famous Seafood, Chicken and Vegetables. Their extensive menu features 20 craft beers on tap, several from local breweries on the Beerwerks Trail! Next stop is, Basic City for a tasting and tour. Reclaiming this “Lost Town,” Basic City has transformed this former industrial complex paying homage to the City of yesteryear with its distinctive taproom and hand-crafted beers like Waynesbeeroh. End your night at the Wayne Theatre. After a period of renovations, this historic theater reopened its doors in 2016. The state-of-the-art performance venue, presents national acts like Robin and Linda Williams, the Glenn Miller Orchestra, Wilson Fairchild, and even America’s Got Talent performers. The Wayne also features locally produced musical theater, science and history lectures, and classic movies.

In the morning wake up and head south to Lexington and one of the Valley’s natural wonders at Natural Bridge State Park. Discover for yourself why the awestruck Thomas Jefferson purchased the 215-ft. limestone arch in 1774. Follow the Cedar Creek Trail – for a total walking distance of about a mile on relatively flat land – under the Bridge to the Monacan Indian Living History Exhibit and past an old saltpeter mine and the Lost River, ending at Lace Falls. Grab lunch in downtown Lexington. The Sheridan Livery Inn was originally opened in 1887 as John Sheridan’s stable and carriage service. Today, the dining room offers a varied American menu, full bar, and plenty of space to stretch out and relax. The perfect end to Drink in the Valley is Devils Backbone Outpost Brewery & Tap Room located on a beautiful hillside just outside of Lexington, the Outpost, houses a custom-built brewery featuring a 120bbl Rolec Brewing system, SBC bottling and canning lines and Tap Room. Tour the inner workings of this larger scale brewery and then enjoy an award-winning brew in the taproom.

The Shenandoah Beerwerks Trail pairs the craft beer experience with a combination of activities and attractions that uniquely reflect the region’s recreational and cultural activities. Trail updates and news can be found on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

What beer adventure best describes the father figure in your life? This Father’s Day send Dad on a brewery-themed tour of the Shenandoah Valley where he can taste some of the best craft beer in the country while exploring the great outdoors.  We’ve got some trip planning ideas to get you started that won’t break the bank!

“Hoppy” IPA Dad
Pairing bold flavors and extreme sports this adventure is perfect for the Dad looking to push the limits. Hop on a mountain bike and explore the trails at Massanutten’s Mountain Bike Park offering a variety of trails for all levels; from veteran riders looking for a challenge to aspiring riders looking for a few pointers. Their Pathway Package includes a 75-minute lesson, bike rental and 3 hours of trail use. 4-hour and 8-hour rental and lift ticket options are also available.  Other cycling options include Rocktown Trails at Hillandale Park in Harrisonburg.  This shared-use trail, offers three different levels of difficulty to appeal to a complete spectrum of cyclists, runners and hikers. After the adrenaline rush is over, check out the craft beer selection in Harrisonburg and try up to four different breweries like Brothers Craft Brewing and Three Notch’d Brewing Company.

Other brew options for Harrisonburg, include:
Pale Fire Brewing
Restless Moons Brewing Company

To book your mountain biking excursion visit the Massanutten’s Mountain Bike Park website.

Living “Lager” Dad
Great water makes great beer and that is certainly true in the Shenandoah Valley. Live “lager” with a day on the river while enjoying some of the Valley’s fresh, craft brews. Float, paddle and play as you make your way down the mighty James River in Rockbridge County with the Wilderness Canoe Company (WCC). For those looking to relax—with the option of fishing—choose the short paddle day trip and enjoy the gentle ride from WCC to Glasgow. Those looking for a challenge, try WCC’s most popular trip which includes a mix of class I and II rapids. This 3.5 to 4-hour trip starts at the public boat landing and concludes at WCC where your river excursion ends and your beer tour begins. Visit Lexington/Rockbridge’s two breweries Great Valley Farm Brewery and Devils Backbone Outpost Brewery & Taproom. Add another brewery to your trip by visiting the Shenandoah Beerwerks Trail website.

Traditional ‘Ale Dad
Traditional ‘Ale Dad prefers the perfect balance of refreshing beer and outdoor adventure. Explore scenic overlooks, spectacular waterfalls and breathtaking mountain views throughout Augusta County—home to some of the best hikes around. Both locals and visitors enjoy Crabtree Falls a beautiful 3-hour waterfall hike featuring a series of five cascades falling 1,200 feet. Or if you’ve come for the views, try Humpback Rocks. This amazing view of the Valley is a 2-mile trek with a gain of 800 feet of elevation. After taking in the sights and scenes from above, head down into the Valley to Waynesboro’s Basic City Brewing Company where cold beer and food trucks await. Before you head to Staunton, stop by Stable Craft Brewing and enjoy a pint on their patio or head to Seven Arrows for a session beer in their comfortable taproom. Next and last stop, is Staunton where Dad can choose from up to four different breweries to try, along with a great restaurant scene. Staunton’s breweries include:

• Bedlam Brewing
• Redbeard Brewing Company
• Shenandoah Valley Brewing Co.
• Queen City Brewing

Fishing for Stout Dad

Whether Dad’s fishing for trout or a handcrafted stout, we’ve got him covered! With nearly 3,000 miles of public trout water in and around the Shenandoah Valley, Dad can spend the day learning how to fly fish with a private instructor or take a floating trip—warm water floats available— in search of a trophy trout, largemouth and smallmouth bass, musky, or carp. He can learn casting techniques from some of the best anglers in the Valley or more seasoned fishermen can take a guided trip. Check out these experienced outfitters located throughout the Valley to book Dad’s next fishing trip:

Mossy Creek Fly Fishing in Harrisonburg
John Roberts Fly Fishing in Lexington
South River Fly Shop in Waynesboro

The Shenandoah Beerwerks Trail pairs the craft beer experience with a combination of activities and attractions that uniquely reflect the region’s recreational and cultural activities. Trail updates and news can be found on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

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