Beerwerks Archives - Shenandoah Beerwerks Trail

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American History and National Attractions Along the Beerwerks Trail

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Summer brings vacation and family time as well as the sunny skies and hot temperatures of beer-drinking weather. It’s also time to start thinking about how to spend summer’s biggest event, Independence Day, which is especially important this year because it is the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution. Why not augment your enjoyment and understanding of the holiday with some background of American history and appreciation of national attractions? Toast your new knowledge with a stop at a nearby Beerwerks brewery.

VA250

While many of our localities celebrate Independence Day annually, VA250 is Virginia’s statewide commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution, the Revolutionary War, and U.S. independence. It blends celebration, education, and civic engagement as it strives to “educate Americans about our history; engage with every community to tell a complete story; and inspire people to recommit to the values inherent in citizenship.” Check the schedule for upcoming events in the Valley and across the Commonwealth.

Natural Beauty

Shenandoah National Park

10 minutes from Elkton Brewing Co.

Stretching along the Blue Ridge Mountains, Shenandoah National Park offers over 200,000 acres of protected wilderness, which is home to more than 300 animal and 1,300 plant species. The public can enjoy it on 500 miles of hiking trails, in camping and recreation areas, and on the Skyline Drive and its 75 scenic overlooks. Established to conserve the area’s natural beauty and ensure public access, much of the park’s infrastructure dates to the Great Depression when the Civilian Conservation Corps workers built trails and lodges as part of Roosevelt’s New Deal. Make sure to take a ranger-led tour of Rapidan Camp, constructed in 1929 as Herbert Hoover’s “summer White House” and used by US presidents until the 1970s. 

Natural Bridge

9 minutes from Great Valley Farm Brewery and Winery

Natural Bridge State Park’s 215-foot tall and 90-foot wide stone arch is all that remains after the erosive power of Cedar Creek collapsed an ancient cave system in the limestone. The natural wonder has fascinated generations of Virginia residents, ranging from the Native Americans to modern tourists. Legend has it that George Washington surveyed the Natural Bridge and carved his initials into the rock wall on the south side of the arch. Later, Thomas Jefferson showed his appreciation when he bought the bridge and the surrounding acres for about $200 in today’s money. Ten miles of hiking trails–including Cedar Creek Trail, which leads under the bridge to Lace Falls–offer views of surrounding mountains, forests, and meadows. Other attractions include a disc golf trail, star-gazing and nature programming, picnic shelter, visitor’s center and trail shop, and an educational Kids in Parks Track Trail.

Frontier Settlement and Cultural History

The Virginia Quilt Museum

9 minutes from Restless Moons Brewing

Quilts offer warmth and protection, but handmade ones are more than just functional textiles. They can serve as historical documents and offer insight into the cultural, social, and artistic lives of communities over time. Dayton’s Virginia Quilt Museum tells Virginia’s story through its quilting heritage with two floors of gallery space housing over 300 quilts dating back to the 18th century. The museum, located in historic 1822 Silver Lake Mill, features traditional and contemporary quilting arts. Museum programming teaches visitors about the Valley’s cultural history as well as how to appreciate the quilting arts through classes and workshops.

Rocktown History

15 minutes from White Oak Lavender Farm and Purple WOLF Vineyard

Exhibits at Dayton’s Rocktown History preserve the history of Harrisonburg and Rockingham County. They include artifacts and narratives from the area’s early settlement and frontier life, folk art and crafts, Civil War, WWI, and WWII history, and African American heritage. The museum hosts lots of special events and education programming like monthly Third Thursday talks and history workshops on various topics. Visitors can also access a free research library with lots of local and genealogical resources and a self-guided walking tour of Dayton.

The Brethren & Mennonite Heritage Center

9 minutes from Feel the Rain Brothers Brew Co.

The 24-acre Brethren & Mennonite Heritage Center celebrates the historical and spiritual legacies of Brethren and Mennonites in the Shenandoah Valley with guided tours of historic buildings, exhibits, and wholesome hands-on farm activities like carpentry and churning butter. Look for special events like historical lectures, hymn sings, worship services, Christmas and Easter programming, and the popular Sing Me High Music Festival.

Waynesboro Heritage Museum

5 minutes from Basic City Beer Co.

The Blue Ridge Mountains created a formidable obstacle for horses and wagons and once marked the frontier for pioneers moving west. One of the reasons for Waynesboro’s early growth was because it was a safe resting place after successful crossings at Rockfish Gap. The Waynesboro Heritage Museum, located in a restored 1908 bank building, includes artifacts, photographs, maps, furniture, textiles, and more in its exhibits on the city’s history. Permanent and rotating galleries deal with a variety of historical eras and subjects like the railroad, Brigadier General Anthony Wayne, industry, and education. 

Woodrow Wilson Birthplace 

5 minutes from Redbeard Brewing Company

Virginia is sometimes called the Mother of Presidents because it produced a total of 8, which is more than any other state! You can learn about Staunton’s native son at Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library and Museum. The museum’s exhibits chronicle his life, Staunton and American history, and the history of those who lived in the house, including enslaved persons. The museum also sheds light on World War I, the League of Nations, and important progressive reforms like suffrage and prohibition. Visitors will especially enjoy an exhibit on trench warfare, a walk through the decorative gardens, and visits to Wilson’s Pierce Arrow and the gift shop. Check the calendar for a wide variety of educational programs and events. If you’re in town on a Saturday morning, join a free walking tour of historic Staunton led by the Historic Staunton Foundation.

The Frontier Culture Museum

15 minutes from Stable Craft Brewing and Cidery

Different cultures and peoples settled in the Valley at different times. As each group brought its history and traditions and adapted to the landscape, it encountered and merged with other groups, and the overall culture evolved over time. Costumed interpreters at Staunton’s open-air Frontier Culture Museum illustrate the daily lives and traditions of the Valley’s earliest residents as they work farms representing various points in history. Visitors will tour old-world farms like those built in Europe and Africa as well as new-world farms constructed on the American frontier.

The Shenandoah Valley offers a wealth of natural beauty and important sites in American history. Make sure to schedule a visit as you travel the Beerwerks Trail.

12 Waterfall Hikes Along the Beerwerks Trail

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Looking for a spring or summertime activity that combines a challenging workout, big servings of fresh air, show-stopping scenery, and a delicious cooldown? You should spend your next free day hiking to a waterfall. We’ve mapped out a dozen hikes and strolls with awesome water features. And since you’ll probably end your day sweaty and thirsty, we’ve also matched each hike with a nearby Beerwerks brewery.

Waterfall Hikes

Riprap Hollow 

30 minutes from Basic City Beer Co. 

Shenandoah National Park’s Riprap Hollow Trail checks all the boxes for a scenic summer hike. The trail, which starts at Wildcat Ridge Trailhead (MP 91.2 on the Skyline Drive), is mostly shaded, but offers two tremendous views of the mountains and valley. It explores a scenic spring-fed stream with a 20-foot waterfall, some smaller cascades, and an enormous, and very cold 50-foot swimming hole. Return the way you came, or make a day of it by tackling the entire 9.5-mile Riprap Trail/Wildcat Ridge Trail circuit hike, which is considered one of the best loops in the park.

Natural pool

Jones/Doyles Falls

40 minutes to Elkton Brewing Co. 

Also in SNP, Jones Run/Doyles River hike is a moderately difficult hike that pays off with big waterfall views. You’ll find several spots to dip your feet, several sets of falls to photograph, and you can have lunch on the rocks at the base of a 45-foot cascade. You can tackle this one as an out-and-back to one set of falls from either direction or as a 6.6-mile loop hike to see all the waterfalls. It’s a good hike for hot weather because the moving air and running water cool the nearby trail, and the whole loop is shaded, which is helpful as you navigate the steep trail back to the parking area.

Natural pool

Fridley Gap/Mountain Run Swimming Hole

20 minutes from Feel the Rain Brothers Brew Co.  

If you’re just looking to cool off on a hot day, you’ll easily reach the Fridley Gap/Mountain Run Swimming Hole in under a half a mile by walking along a pretty trail past mountain laurel and other summer blooms. A waterfall feeds the swimming hole, which varies in depth depending on recent rainfall. Hikers looking for more of a challenge can extend the hike into a rocky, 6-mile loop that climbs 2000 feet on Massanutten Mountain and features an overlook of Harrisonburg and the Valley.

Swimming hole

Hidden Rocks Trail

25 minutes from Pale Fire Brewing Co.

Southwest of Harrisonburg in the George Washington National Forest, you’ll find several hikes of varying difficulty in the Hone Quarry Recreation Area. Moderate 2.5-mile Hidden Rocks Trail, follows 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. There’s a nice view from the top, and if you’re lucky, you might spot someone mid-climb. Start at the small parking area on the Hone Quarry Rd. 

White Rock Falls

33 minutes from Seven Arrows Brewing 

Depending on where you park and which way you approach, the White Rock Falls hike can be a 4.5-mile loop through hardwood forests and shady glens or a 2.2-mile out-and-back ramble suitable for families with small children. The 40-foot falls are scenic, and the base is a pretty spot for photography and lunch. There’s no swimming hole, but you can wade or dip your feet in the cold water. You won’t find many long range views, but the mountain laurels and rhododendrons are pretty, and the trail crosses the stream several times on wooden bridges. For the longer hike, start at the White Rock Gap trailhead at MP 18.5 on the Blue Ridge Parkway. The shorter hike starts at the Slacks Overlook (MP 20), descending to the falls, and returning the same way. Hikers can also extend the hike by completing the entire 9.5-mile Torry Ridge/White Rock Falls loop.

White Rock Falls

Crabtree Falls

30 minutes from Rockbridge Vineyard and Brewery 

At 1,200 feet, Crabtree Falls is one of the highest vertical-drop cascading waterfalls east of the Mississippi. Some cascades drop over 200 feet! The steep trail climbs alongside the falls and is a challenging 3.8 out-and-back adventure with places to catch your breath and admire five major cascades and many smaller ones. A climb all the way to the top nets you a stream to cool your feet, a place to spread out your lunch, and an exceptional panorama of the Tye River Valley. However, for those seeking an easy stroll, the bottom cascade is actually only a few hundred feet from the trailhead along a paved and flat path, making it accessible for most guests. 

Crabtree Falls

St. Mary’s Falls

27 minutes from Devils Backbone Outpost Taproom & Kitchen

Make sure you bring your swimsuit when you hike to the waterfall at St. Mary’s Falls. The  4-mile out-and-back hike along the St. Mary’s River is relatively flat, but you’ll encounter multiple water crossings. You’ll need your water shoes if the stepping stone crossings are washed out. The trail ends at a large icy mountain pool below a scenic waterfall. Hop in and cool off or find a spot to relax, eat your lunch, and photograph the falls. Located in the St. Mary’s Wilderness area of George Washington National Forest, this trail starts along VA-608 in Vesuvius. You can also explore St. Mary’s Wilderness from a trailhead along the Blue Ridge Parkway.

St. Mary's Falls

Elliot Knob

12 minutes from PRO RE NATA+ 

You don’t have to do the entire punishing 9-mile Elliot Knob hike to tag a pair of waterfall views. In fact, you’ll reach both waterfalls in the first two miles of the hike, which climbs through the forest and follows Falls Hollow Run. You’ll see pretty forestscapes and lovely creekside scenery. If you’re tougher than most, you’ll climb the entire way to the 4,363-foot peak, which is open and commands such a view that it was once used as a fire lookout. To get there, however, you need to drag yourself up a brutal gravel road that’s practically vertical in places and exposed to the blazing sun. Hike to the waterfalls and treat yourself to a beer. Hike to the top? You deserve a growler! The parking area for this hike is along VA-42 west of Staunton. 

Waterfall

Waterside Strolls

Wildwood Park

19 minutes to The Alpine Goat Brewery

Wildwood Park is one of 14 “pocket parks” providing recreational and green spaces to the town of Bridgewater. Visitors can stroll the wooded ⅔-mile loop or relax under the picnic shelter or on the lawn. There’s a playground for kids. The star of the show is the waterfall created as the North River spills over the dam. You can also check out the river from above when you cross a wooden suspension bridge. Nearby, the scenic Roscoe Burgess Riverwalk hugs the North River and connects four other town parks and features a fitness trail and workout guidance.

Wildwood Park dam

Cedar Creek Trail 

8 minutes from Great Valley Farm Brewery and Winery

Natural Bridge State Park’s Cedar Creek Trail follows the creek under the Natural Bridge, past the Saltpeter Cave, and takes visitors to the beautiful Lace Falls. The name comes from the way the water flows over the rock base, creating ripples that resemble lacework. The trail is two miles out and back, and with the exception of the 144 steps at the beginning (and end), it’s a flat, easy walk. 

Folly Mills Creek

10 minutes to Redbeard Brewing

Folly Mills Creek Falls is a short waterfall hike just south of Staunton. The entire out-and-back distance is just 1.2 miles, but the 2.5-meter falls are even closer to the parking area. This area is considered a preserve, so please leave the dogs at home.

Goshen Pass

20 minutes to Heliotrope Brewery

Goshen Pass is technically whitewater instead of a waterfall, and you don’t have to hike to access it, but this summertime gem is hiking adjacent, and there’s a lot of roaring water for swimming, wading, tubing, or kayaking. Enjoy nature’s best scenery as you find a private place to lounge on the rocks. 

Goshen Pass

Stay Safe!

Natural water areas often include rocky, steep, and slippery ground. Exercise caution and obey posted safety signs. Save alcohol for after the hike, leash your pets (if allowed), and watch your step to avoid possible sharp objects or reptiles. 

Pack your water shoes and sunscreen, and chase a waterfall along the Beerwerks Trail this weekend!

Groovin’ in the Garden w/ Sun-Dried Opossum

Join us for the last Groovin’ in the Garden of 2025!!! Sun-Dried Opossum will be closing out the season with us and Chicano Boy Taco will be serving up the delicious food!
All shows 6:00-9:00M

Supporting Staunton City Schools!

Watering Can and Bridge Paint Night Party

Join us at Redbeard Brewing in Staunton for an instructional paint night party to create “Watering Can and Bridge!” ☺️ We will be painting a colorful interpretation of the bridge with the watering can in all of its spring glory!! You may choose to follow the steps of the painting or paint the landscape from a photo as it inspires you!! Enjoy a discount of 10% off all drinks and food for participating!

This is a great opportunity to create your own art to decorate your home or office or to give as a gift! To register, please text Amie Southers at 434-242-3684. Price is $38 each and a portion of the proceeds will benefit a local animal charity! Pre-payment can be made by Venmo, Zelle, PayPal or cash in person : ) (Note: if you paid and cannot attend, a credit will be issued for a future event.)

All skill levels are welcome! Space is limited so sign up soon : ) Hope to see you there!!
**Love the classes? Attend 3 and get one free!!**
*EARLY-BIRD REGISTRATION: sign up by Sunday, April 13th for 25% off!!*

Patios and Unique Outdoor Spaces at Shenandoah Beerwerks Breweries

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Shed the winter blues and welcome the spring season in the outdoor space at your favorite Beerwerks brewery. Relaxed and informal spaces like patios, beer gardens, and lawn seating can accommodate big, casual groups and create a special feeling of community and fun. You’re not buying beer at a brewery, you’re at a party with good friends! Whether you’ve been cooped up inside for hours or just want to extend your day in the sun, make a visit to a Beerwerks outdoor space part of your feel-good, warm-weather routine!

Farms

Drink beer, take a stroll, or photograph some livestock at our amazing farm breweries.

Great Valley Farm Brewery and Winery

You can’t go wrong with an afternoon spent drinking beer and watching the mountains from an outside space at Great Valley Farm Brewery and Winery. Relax at a shaded picnic table or in an Adirondack chair to sample Great Valley’s Belgian-style beers made with farm-grown ingredients. Kids? Don’t worry, there’s lots of room for them to run and have fun while you taste your way through the ever-changing taplist. Bring a picnic or grab something from a Saturday food truck. 

White Oak Lavender Farm

One deep breath of the lavender-scented breeze at White Oak Lavender Farm will help you slip into a state of relaxation. A few sips of lavender-infused craft beer or wine won’t hurt either. Bring the family and kick back at a purple table while the kids eat lavender ice cream or explore. The farm features views of the mountains, whimsical decorations, landscaped grounds, U-pick zones, an audio tour, and a “small animal experience” for the kiddos. The gift shop is stocked with great-smelling items like essential oils, candles, bath products, jellies, jams, and other good things to eat. The farm hosts live music, floral classes, and festivals.

Rockbridge Vineyard and Brewery

Bring your camera when you visit Rockbridge Vineyard & Brewery this spring. The farm offers lots of outdoor space with excellent views of grape arbors and rolling hills. Sit on the shaded deck or grab a table on the lawn to soak up the sun. You can even enjoy being outside in wetter weather from the covered open-air pavilion. Rockbridge Vineyard & Brewery crafts both wine and beer, so you can sample a variety of wonderful  flavors. Catch live music on weekend afternoons, and buy a snack of local cheeses from the tasting room or from a scheduled food truck. 

Cave Hill Farms Brewery

The unique indoor taproom at Cave Hill Farms Brewery is a huge converted dairy loafing shed with a small farm museum. If the weather is nice, though, we recommend you head to the outside seating area that has shaded tables and stellar views of the farm and mountains. For even better views, climb the silo stairs to the balcony overlook. The Feedlot serves tasty bar food and has a kids’ menu. Catch live music each weekend!

The Alpine Goat Brewery

The Alpine Goat Brewery spoils visitors with tasty German-inspired craft beer and beautiful views of the mountains. Gather in the tap room or on the patio for companionable beer hall-style fun, but if you love your private space and conversation, you’ll enjoy the conversational groupings of chairs set up on the lawn. There’s a stage, too, with plenty of room to gather nearby. Kids can run around, dig in the sand, and play outdoor games like cornhole and Connect Four. Rotating food trucks visit during the weekend and evening hours.

Stable Craft Brewing

Stable Craft Brewing’s sprawling outdoor space includes patios, picnic tables, and Adirondack chairs arranged around fire pits with swoon-worthy views of the Blue Ridge and the outdoor stage. Visit the horses and donkeys, play lawn games like volleyball, giant beer pong, and cornhole, or stroll the property and take selfies. Stable Craft serves delicious craft beer, cider, and non-alcoholic draft soda along with appetizers, sandwiches, salads, and entrees. Book a weekend in an on-site suite for more scenic views and a private hot tub!

Patios and Porches

Visit these sophisticated outdoor spaces for fresh air and natural or urban scenery.

Devils Backbone 

You can see for miles from the outdoor spaces at Devils Backbone Outpost Tap Room & Kitchen. Admire the scenery from your seat on the enormous deck, patio, or the beer garden. Expect a variety of seating choices, umbrellas for shade, corn hole, and and heaters for chillier evenings. The exceptional menu includes appetizers, salads, delicious burgers, sandwiches, and entrees as well as a menu for kids. Check the schedule for live music every Friday and Saturday.

Elkton Brewing

You might know Elkton Brewing best for its beer, and its Best Brewery and Best Live Music Venue Best of the Valley awards (2023). But you should also be aware that the brewery has some seriously good outside spaces, including a front porch with the best rocking chairs around. The brewery also has a huge pet-friendly patio space with a shade pavilion. Each weekend, there’s live music, and the Woodfired Co. food truck makes sourdough crust pizzas with creative toppings. 

Heliotrope Brewery

After a day of shopping and exploring in downtown Lexington, relax with a beer on Heliotrope Brewery’s front patio to watch the Main Street bustle and enjoy the spring breeze. A second outdoor space includes picnic tables, string lights, and shade created by brick-walled buildings. Heliotrope’s kitchen creates traditional and specialty pizzas, salads, and antipasto that incorporate fresh, seasonal ingredients. 

Queen City Brewing

While you can’t sip your Queen City Brewing beer as you feed the ducks at Gypsy Hill Park, you can enjoy being ducks adjacent as you kick back on the large patio. Sample a range of excellent beers from a large taplist. If you’re hungry, bring a snack from home or have food from your favorite restaurant delivered. Come on Wednesdays for acoustic open mic events and check the schedule for other live music.

Pale Fire Brewing Co.

The big industrial doors at Pale Fire Brewing Co. open directly onto a spacious patio. There are umbrellas for shade, propane heaters for chilly nights, and easy access to downtown Harrisonburg nighttime adventure. Come for delicious beer as well as Za Spot Detroit-style pizza. Pups can hang on the patio. 

Seven Arrows Brewing

Seven Arrows Brewing’s outdoor seating ranges from open and shaded tables on the deck to seats around a fire pit and picnic tables in the beer garden. Inside the taproom, you’ll find comfortable seating, board games, and a small art gallery. Nobos Kitchen complements the tap list with lunch, dinner, and late-night fare emphasizing local ingredients. Seven Arrows hosts live music each Saturday night.

Three Notch’d Valley Collab House

Three Notch’d Valley Collab House has a big, modern deck lit with string lights where you can sit to enjoy your beer, including each week’s new, small-batch brew. Outside food and dogs are welcome. Sick of chatting? Challenge your companions to one of the brewery’s many board games or enjoy the brewery’s local music and art events.

Beer Gardens

Bring the family, bring the dog, and enjoy our laid-back beer gardens.

PRO RE NATA +

Along with its cozy taproom, Staunton’s newest brewery, PRO RE NATA + boasts a large, well-furnished and dog-friendly beer garden. In addition to their beer and cocktails, PRO RE NATA + also serves several types of salads and creative, customizable pizzas. An onsite food truck prepares Southern-inspired mains, handhelds, sides, and ice cream. Stay tuned for upcoming events!

Basic City Beer Co.

You’re going to want an icy beer made after that amazing spring hike in Shenandoah National Park. A range of craft beers on tap is just minutes away at Basic City Beer Co. Pick from IPAs, pilsners, lagers, sours, stouts, and more. “Fragrant” from your hike? No worries, because Basic City has plenty of room to spread out both inside and in the kid and pet-friendly outdoor area. Umbrellas provide daytime shade, and a grid of bistro lights sets the mood at night. Order some pints, a charcuterie board, a smash burger, or a brick-oven pizza. Visiting on a weekend? See who’s taking the stage at The Foundry at Basic City.

Restless Moons Brewing Company

The front of Restless Moons Brewing Company features big doors that open wide on warm days, adding to the funky, fun, and relaxed atmosphere. There’s a roomy beer garden in the back with seating, string lights, and views of the music stage, backyard movies, and a colorful mural decorating the weathered block exterior. The brewery is kid and dog-friendly. Guests may bring or order food. 

Redbeard Brewing Company

Redbeard Brewing Company’s beer garden is tucked behind the recently renovated taproom. There are shaded picnic tables and Adirondack chairs, and it’s a great spot to enjoy the popular Groovin in the Garden series that starts this weekend and extends through October. The events bring area bands and food trucks to the space every other weekend. Redbeard also hosts regular live music in the taproom and treats its patrons with lots of fun events like trivia, music bingo, D and D nights, monthly bad movies, and more!

Feel the Rain Brothers Brew Co.

Feel the Rain Brothers Brew Co’s family-friendly covered patio sparkles with string lights and hosts live music and food trucks. Check the schedule for upcoming events. According to the brewery’s Facebook page, along with their name change, “2025 will bring a brand new facility with more private event space, advanced taplists, in house food, and outdoor areas to enjoy.”

Make the most of the spring weather, craft beer, and outdoor experience with a trip to a Beerwerks brewery. Make sure to get your 2025 Shenandoah Beerwerks Trail Passport stamped to earn a Beerwerks t-shirt!

Cheers to Female Leadership Along the Beerwerks Trail

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March is Women’s History Month, and a great time to remember the contributions women have made toward history and society, especially close to home. You can also celebrate and support women by buying products or services from local female-owned and female co-owned businesses. Here are the Beerwerks breweries where women serve at the helm.

Heliotrope Brewery 

Lexington’s community-centered Heliotrope Brewery is a majority woman-owned business co-founded and co-owned by Jenefer Davies and Erik Jones. A Washington and Lee professor, Davies leads the business operations, and Jones, who once worked in arts administration, focuses on the brewing side of the business. Heliotrope crafts small-batch beers, often using locally sourced grains and other ingredients. The brewery compliments its beer, wine, and cider selection with an impressive menu of sourdough pizzas with creative and seasonal toppings sustainably sourced from nearby farmers and producers. The taproom is located on Lexington’s Main Street, and its Scandinavian-inspired décor promotes “the concept of hygge, a cozy feeling of contentment.” 

Great Valley Farm Brewery & Winery 

Since purchasing the 27-acre site of Great Valley Farm Brewery & Winery in 2008, Nathan and Irma Bailey have planted a vineyard and developed the property into a thriving brewery and winery dedicated to the farm-to-pint experience. Committed to eco-friendly and sustainable farming and brewing practices, the farm often uses hops and other ingredients it grows – like grapes, lemongrass, and basil – in its beers to provide unique spins on traditional Belgian farmhouse styles. A visit to the farm will score small-batch, high-quality beers and wines and beautiful and peaceful views. The brewery also often features live music and service from some of the area’s best food trucks. Blue Ridge Outdoors calls it “the perfect destination for beer lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.” 

Rockbridge Vineyard and Brewery 

Shep Rouse and his wife Jane Rouse own and operate Rockbridge Vineyard & Brewery and serve their award-winning wine and beer in a tasting room transformed from the farm’s original dairy barn. They make wines from estate-grown grapes like Chardonnay, Cabernet Franc, and Vidal Blanc. Shep Rouse won the 2022 Virginia Vineyards Association’s Grower of the Year award for his significant contributions to Virginia’s wine industry. The Rouses expanded into beer and cider production in 2019. They create small-batch brews that are  for their craftsmanship and range of flavors. Visitors can relax by the fire in the rustic tasting room or spread out on the lawn for a panoramic view. Sunday is especially popular because the brewery hosts Uncorked live music and food trucks. 

Seven Arrows Brewing

Seven Arrows Brewing Company is co-owned by husband and wife team Melissa and Aaron Allen. Melissa, an MBA, holds the position of owner and president, while Aaron, who trained as a chemical engineer, serves as the owner and head brewer. The Allens opened the brewery on New Year’s Eve in 2014 and have been providing high-quality craft beers ever since. Visitors can expect a lager-forward tap list with a solid lineup of core beers accented with seasonal and rotational brews for variety as well as a full food menu from onsite Nobos Kitchen. The brewery has taproom and outside seating with shade and firepits. It’s child and dog-friendly and hosts live music on the weekends.

Stable Craft Brewing

Craig and Nikki Nargi established Hermitage Hill Farm and Stables in 2006 when they took over Waynesboro Stables. Shifting focus from horse boarding, they transformed the space into an event venue, which opened in 2008. As they championed the state legislature necessary to support their farm destination, they became leaders in the agritourism movement. Over time, they expanded the business to include both onsite lodging and Stable Craft Brewing, which serves delicious beer and cider and hosts a full calendar of live music and other entertaining and community-building events. Stable Craft has fire pits for chilly days, igloos during winter, and lawn games like volleyball and cornhole. Visitors can pet the horses on the facilities to learn about the brewing process and the brewery’s commitment to sustainable farming practices.

Restless Moons Brewing Company

In 2017, Jeffrey and Brittany Moon purchased an existing brewery in Harrisonburg, transforming it into Restless Moons Brewing Company. While Jeffrey serves as the primary owner and brewer, Brittany supports the business, greatly contributing to its operations and community engagement. This collaborative effort has fostered a welcoming atmosphere for craft beer enthusiasts. The brewery offers a diverse and ever-changing tap list of small batches brewed onsite. Located in a former auto service station in Harrisonburg, the taproom has big garage doors that stay open on warm days. There’s more fresh air on the patio as well as lots of games to keep you busy.

White Oak Lavender Farm 

Julie and Richard Haushalter co-own and operate White Oak Lavender Farm and The Purple WOLF Vineyard. Julie manages the daily operations of the lavender farm and the vineyard and Richard contributes to the management and strategic direction of the family business. Open to the public since 2008, the farm offers several different ways to enjoy lavender and appreciate its healing properties. Visitors can gather stems from seasonal U-pick fields, shop for lavender products like ice cream, essential oils, and body products. Visitors can also enjoy beer and 15 types of wine made from grapes grown on or near the farm in the Purple WOLF tasting room. The farm offers wine tastings, lectures, and there’s even a farm experience for kids where they learn about lavender and meet friendly barnyard animals.

Pause on your journey along the Beerwerks Trail to enjoy a beer at one of our woman-owned or co-owned breweries!

Masquerade Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre

Join us on February 24th for a Masquerade Murder Mystery Dinner at Stable Craft Brewing!
????️ Ticket includes buffet dinner and interactive theatre performance. Dress in costume by wearing your flashiest mask & be prepared to collect clues with fellow investigators as you dine & dash to solve the murder.
Featuring fantastical ciders, bold beers, Virginia wine and craft sodas to quench every type of thirst. Let’s have a ball & solve a murder this February!
Buffet Menu:
OPENING ACT
Tossed Green Salad w/ Assorted Dressing
MAIN ACT
Smoked Brisket w/ Onion Gravy
Pan-Seared Chicken w/ Lemon Caper Sauce
SIDE SHOW
Rosemary Garlic Roasted red potatoes
Sriracha Roasted Street Corn
Bread & Butter
Assorted Confections for Dessert
Purchase tickets in advance for $65 each. Limited Tickets at Door are $80 each; Ticket sales are final.

BOGO BURGER & BEER COMBO

Join us for the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th Wednesdays of the month for the BOGO Burger special available to pair with beer, cider, or craft soda for only $20.

2 Burgers w/ Lettuce Tomato & 2 Fried potatoes AND 2 BEERS, Ciders or, CRAFT Soda $20
Upgrade to Southern Pleasure, Cordon Bleu or Mushroom Swiss $3
Dine In Only

Find Your NYE Fun Along the Beerwerks Trail

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Take a break from hanging holiday lights and start thinking about your New Year’s Eve fun. The Beerwerks Trail is a great way to find a laid-back vibe and craft beer culture, and many of our breweries have special events planned. Jot down some resolutions, practice the lyrics to “Auld Lang Syne,” and toast 2025 with some craft beer cheer!

Still shopping for holiday gifts? Hats, growlers, t-shirts, and gift certificates make great last-minute presents.

Pre-Game Events 

Greet the new year early with some weekend fun:

Thursday, December 26

Friday, December 27

Saturday, December 28 

Sunday, December 29

Monday, December 30

New Year’s Eve Parties on Tuesday, December 31

Don’t sit at home as the ball drops! Here are the Beerwerks breweries that are throwing parties.

The Foundry at Basic City Beer Co. 

New Year’s Eve Celebration with YARN and Isaac Hadden. Get your tickets now for a wild New Year’s Eve celebration at The Foundry. You’ll enjoy terrific alt-country rock and roll music, craft beer and cocktails, delicious food, and a champagne toast to welcome 2025. Sing and dance into the new year.(8 pm)

Stable Craft Brewing

Round up the posse for the NYE: Wild West Celebration. This party will lasso the new year with western-themed food, drinks, and entertainment in a rustic venue. Reserve your table today for drinks, two separate buffets (steak and shrimp and bar-style bites), a photo booth, tunes by Rick Rowe DJ, dancing, and a midnight toast. (5 pm – 12:30 am)

Seven Arrows Brewing

New Years Eve & 10-Year Anniversary Bash. Join Seven Arrows Brewing Company and Nobos Kitchen in celebrating 10 years of stellar beer, scrumptious bites, and good times. This free event features DJ Lance, a photobooth, a champagne toast, and lots of delicious beer and food. Look for 10-year anniversary beer on tap! Want special treatment? Snag some VIP tickets. More info to come! (9 pm)

Pale Fire Brewing Co.

NYE w/ The Wilson Springs Hotel at Pale Fire. Get your tickets to ring in the new year with Virginia’s genre-bending The Wilson Springs Hotel. Expect some folk, rock and roll, country, and more in their unique sound. (9 pm, 21+)

Cave Hill Farms Brewery

Big City Band – NEW YEARS EVE BASH 2024. Join your friends at Cave Hill Farms Brewery for a rocking night of live music by Big City Band. You’ll get to make memories in the photo booth and enjoy a midnight champagne toast, lots of yummy food, and Cave Hill Farms’ delicious craft beer. (7 pm)

The Friendly Fermenter

Show off your end-of-year smarts at Trivia Tuesday. Answer three rounds of questions by Pub Trivia Nerds and one on the weekly theme to make your bid for TFF gift cards and/or swag! (7 pm)

Prefer to low-key it this year with a night at home with friends and family? Make sure to lay in a supply of cans, crowlers, or growlers, available at most Beerwerks breweries!

If you’re looking for some non-brewery New Year’s events and activities, try one of these options.

Looking Ahead

January is dark and cold. Plan to warm up at these upcoming events!

Friday, January 3, 2025

Saturday, January 4

Friday, January 10

Saturday, January 11

Friday, January 17

Saturday, January 18

Friday, January 24

Saturday, January 25

Friday, January 31

New Year’s Resolutions

Still working on your New Year’s resolutions for 2025? Check out our post on how to make keeping those resolutions easier by combining them with chances to drink craft beer: 9 Ways to Keep Your New Beer’s Resolutions Along the Beerwerks Trail.

Whether you’re craving a quiet pint or a spotlight on the dance floor this New Year’s Eve, the Shenandoah Beerwerks Trail has an event and a brewery to suit your style. Raise your glass for locally crafted beer,fine company, and the best year ever in 2025!

NYE & 10 Year Anniversary Bash at Seven Arrows!

Help us ring in the New Year and celebrate 10 YEARS of making amazing beer (and memories!!)
-DJ Lance starting at 9pm
-Free Photobooth all night
-Champagne toast (21+)
-FREE event- however VIP tickets are available for purchase!
-Draft only 10 Year Anniversary Beer *Limited Quantity*

Open Mic Night at Seven Arrows

Come on out for Open Mic Night with MC Dan the Man! Sign ups are from 6-7!

Come on out for an evening of talented folks from across the Valley!

Queen City Christkindlmarkt

Step into the magic of the Queen City Christkindlmarkt! Immerse yourself in a European-inspired Christmas market and explore charming, beautifully decorated booths featuring one-of-a-kind treasures from local artisans and makers—perfect for finding unique gifts for loved ones or a special treat for yourself.
Warm up with seasonal drinks and feel the cozy holiday spirit all around. Whether you’re here for the shopping, the atmosphere, or just to soak up the joy of the season, the Queen City Christkindlmarkt is the perfect way to celebrate this holiday season. Bring friends, bring family, and make unforgettable memories!

Brewery Spotlight: Pro Re Nata+

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Want to learn more about Pro Re Nata+, the newest brewery along the Beerwerks Trail? Discover the brewery’s most-popular beers, meet its new award-winning head brewer, and uncover the meaning behind the Pro Re Nata+ name.

Hours:

  • M-W: Closed
  • Th: 11-9 pm
  • Fri: 11-10 pm
  • Sat: 11-10 pm
  • Sun: 11-9 pm

What are your go-to brews and what makes them unique?

  • Hops Treatment (Hazy IPA w/ rotating Hop Varieties)
  • Tapped Out (Easy Drinking Pilsner)
  • Sound Check (Light American Lager)
  • Hop Drone (East Coast Style IPA)
  • Rotating Seasonal Beers (Brown Ale, East Coast IPA’s, Stouts, Oktoberfest, Sours…etc)
  • Rotating Cider & Wine Selection 

Derek Hornig is the new Head PRN Brewer. He’s a highly recognized and award-winning brewer with medals at the Great American Beer Festival, World Cup, and the Virginia Craft Beer Cup. He’s known as one of the most talented brewers in all of Virginia.

What is something unique/quirky about the brewery that most people don’t know?

PRN means “as needed”. PRN+ means that we not only offer beer, but we also offer wine, ciders, and cocktails.

We are currently working on plans for a large covered patio area that will offer more space to spread out, and more rental options for hosting private events and parties.

Do you distribute locally or have any local collaborations?

PRN beer is currently offered at Pro Re Nata (Crozet) and PRN+ (Staunton). Due to new upcoming state regulations, we’re currently considering in-house distribution and partnering with a few other local establishments. We’ve purchased a large new canning line that makes taking beer home and gifting “Beers To Go” an essential and viable option.

Do you offer tours?

Not at this time. But if enough people are interested and make special requests, we will consider offering tours in the future.

Do you allow dogs? 

Animals are not allowed inside (due to Health Department regulations), but pets are allowed on the outside patio area, as long as they’re friendly, leashed and well-attended.

Are you kid-friendly?

We’re very kid friendly, but always encourage parents to have a good time, but keep an eye on their kids at all times, especially for safety reasons!

shenandoah-beerwerks-lawn-games

Do you offer food onsite?

We have multiple food options.  B&C Food Company is onsite and offers wings, Southern comfort food with an Asian flair. Pro Re Nata+ offers a wide selection of pizzas (Best New Pizza in Staunton), nachos, and salads.

What events do you offer?

We currently offer live outdoor music, a private party rental space, and multiple TV’s for football and other popular sporting events. We’re actively looking into hosting future silent discos, trivia, karaoke and open mic nights, specialty food nights, art & craft markets and any new ideas that will keep things exciting, interesting and engaging to the local and surrounding communities.

Find the Best Holiday Gifts Along the Beerwerks Trail

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The gift-giving season is almost here, and here’s how breweries along the Beerwerks Trail can help you find your way through the holiday shopping chaos. Beerwerks breweries are excellent sources of gift cards, growlers, and t-shirts to make the beer lovers on your list light up. Many breweries also sell holiday or winter-themed beers, perfect for warming up at the end of a cold day. Stop by the taprooms or follow the links below to score fantastic presents and stocking stuffers!

Zone A

BrewHaHa Brewing Company: Shirts, hats, gift cards, or cans to go can be purchased at the brewery located in Village of the Valley.

Brothers Craft Brewing sells merchandise in the taproom and online, including gift cards, polos and t-shirts, trucker hats, glassware, koozies, stickers, growlers, and grunts. Brothers offers 15% off cases of packaged beer every Monday. 

Cave Hill Farms Brewery: Purchase gift cards, apparel, and glassware on-site.

Elkton Brewing Co.: carries a selection of shirts, hats, stickers, pint glasses, and crowlers in the taproom. 

The Friendly Fermenter:  The 3T Experience makes a great gift for a small group of your favorite folks. This 90-minute experience combines tasting, teaching about beer, and a tour of their brewery.

Pale Fire Brewing Co.: Check here to find gift cards, t-shirts, beer coolies, gaiters, stickers, dog leashes and chews, pins, bottle openers, totes, trucker hats, and beanies.

Restless Moons Brewing Company offers mug club memberships. Gift cards are available online. Check out the taproom for merch!

Three Notch’d Valley Collab House: Check the taproom or website for gift cards and a nice selection of tees, outerwear, and hats. You might also consider gifting a membership to the Fresh Beer Club, which includes two packages of beer each month, early access to new beers, and access to events, discounts, and giveaways.

White Oak Lavender & The Purple WOLF Vineyard: A wide array of gifts include gourmet food, aromatherapy items, bath accessories, wines, classes, stuffed animals, and much more.

Zone B

The Alpine Goat Brewery’s merch selection includes trucker hats, beanies, koozies, shirts, and memberships to the annual Mug Club, which is only available once a year and includes an extra two ounces on every pour, specials, and, of course, a special mug. 

Basic City Beer Co. sells gift cards, hats, and shirts online and in the taproom. Pick from something Basic City branded, or choose a design in the label of your favorite beer. Would you rather gift an experience? Why not surprise your favorite people with tickets to an upcoming show at The Foundry?

Pro Re Nata+ offers branded hats, sweatshirts, t-shirts, glassware, and gift certificates. Celebrate the holidays with merch from the Beerwerks Trail’s newest brewery.

Redbeard Brewing Company has hoodies, t-shirts, tanks, koozies, trucker hats, beanies, glassware, growlers, tin tackers, coffee, and gift cards online.

Seven Arrows Brewing: Give Seven Arrows-branded merch, including cans, growlers, or gift cards this year. Seven Arrows also sells beer glasses for all your beer needs, including goblets, pints, and pilsner glasses. Seven Arrows also offers a Mug Club membership. Lucky recipients get 20 oz. of beer for the price of 16 oz. each time the mug is filled.

Stable Craft Brewing: Grab some Stable Craft holiday gift cards, which make awesome gifts for foodies, beer, and cider lovers. Purchase craft beer sample packs, apparel, growlers, pint glasses, and more in the gift shop. Want to be a hero? Gift your loved one a membership for the mug of Supper Club, an evening with friends in a Stable Craft igloo, or a weekend away in one of the onsite suites.

Zone C

Devils Backbone Outpost Tap Room & Kitchen sells a big selection of shirts, hoodies, hats, beanies, and other apparel. You’ll also find glassware, tap handles, stickers and patches, koozies, hot sauce, shades, soap, dog toys, beer keys, and more. Order online or visit the brewery.

Great Valley Farm Brewery and Winery: Shop a great selection of hats, hoodies, and t-shirts in the taproom. Consider a membership to the Wine Club for wines delivered quarterly with maker’s notes, special discounts, and early-bird access to new wines. 

Heliotrope Brewery has branded discs to up your disc golf game! You can also buy sweatshirts, t-shirts, glassware, hats, stickers, and gift cards.

Rockbridge Vineyard and Brewery: Wines can be shipped to many states. There’s a minimum of two bottles. Growlers and more are for sale in the onsite shop.

Beerwerks Breweries with Sweet Mountain Views

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You’ve carved your pumpkins, stuffed your scarecrows, and hiked to an incredible overlook. You’ve posed for fall portraits, handed out snacks after the soccer game, and raked some leaves. After all that hard work, you deserve to kick back and enjoy a beer against an incredible backdrop. Here’s our round-up of Beerwerks breweries showcasing sweet mountain views. As you visit, make sure to get your 2024 Shenandoah Beerwerks Trail Passport stamped to earn a Beerwerks t-shirt!

Zone C

Rockbridge Vineyard and Brewery

Rockbridge Vineyard & Brewery offers plenty of outdoor space with excellent views looking over rolling hills and pastureland. You’ll see rows of grape arbors, a pond, and a pair of silos rising over the farm. Pick from a seat on the deck, at one of the umbrella-shaded picnic tables, or spread out blankets and chairs on the grass. There’s even an open-air pavilion to shelter you if it starts to rain. Rockbridge Vineyard & Brewery makes both wine and beer, so you have a lot of wonderful tastes to sample. For fall, try the Blood Orange Wheat ale or the Gold Rush cider. Catch live music on weekend afternoons, and buy a snack of local cheeses from the tasting room or from a scheduled food truck. 

Devils Backbone 

Devils Backbone Outpost Tap Room & Kitchen sits high on a hill, and the mountain views from the enormous deck should appear on postcards. There’s even more outdoor space in the separate beer garden with picnic tables and umbrellas. Celebrate fall with O’Fest Lager or malty Pumpkin Spice Lager, made with pumpkin pie spice extract. The exceptional menu includes appetizers, salads, delicious burgers, sandwiches, and entrees as well as a menu for kids. Check the schedule for live music every Friday and Saturday.

Great Valley Farm Brewery and Winery

You’ll be blown away by the incredible mountain views at Great Valley Farm Brewery and Winery. Relax at a shaded picnic table or in an Adirondack chair and watch the clouds drift over the Blue Ridge. Kid with you? Don’t worry, there’s lots of room for them to run and have fun while you taste your way through the ever-changing taplist. Upcoming releases include a freshly fermented IPA-Citra/Mosaic, the annual Oktoberfest, and the Belgian Golden Strong.  Plan a picnic, or grab something from a Saturday food truck. Check the schedule for upcoming musical events.

Zone B

The Alpine Goat Brewery

The Alpine Goat Brewery spoils visitors with tasty craft beer as well as beautiful views of the mountains from a variety of outside seating areas. You can also see the Valley’s scenery from inside the beer hall-like taproom. The brewery serves several European-style beers as well as regional favorites like IPAs, stouts, and hard seltzers. Try the dark German Schwarzbier while you listen to live music or play outdoor games like cornhole and giant Connect Four. Visitors can also enjoy fire pits, brewery tours, and small-batch beer releases. The brewery is kid-friendly and offers a sandbox and lots of open space for the kids to run and play. In addition, leashed dogs are welcome. Get some small snacks in the taproom or plan to visit during the weekend and evening hours when the rotating food trucks are onsite. Come for live music on the weekends, Saturday morning yoga workshops, and chances to meet the goats and make memories.

Stable Craft Brewing

Stable Craft Brewing’s extensive outdoor space includes a shaded patio, picnic tables, and Adirondack chairs, all featuring swoon-worthy views of the Blue Ridge. Play lawn games, volleyball, and cornhole golf, or stroll the property for more views of the mountains. As the fall weather deepens, pull up a chair near one of several crackling fire pits. Stable Craft’s signature fall flavors include a traditional Oktoberfest and the delicious pumpkin pie-inspired FUmpkin Ale. The brewery also dishes up an elevated bistro menu packed with appetizers, sandwiches, salads, and entrees. Stable Craft’s Friday Night Love series combines live music and cider releases, and as Halloween nears, tour guides from Ghosts of Staunton will be sharing spooky stories from the Queen City. 

Pro Re Nata+

Pro Re Nata+ opened its new Staunton location last month, and while you can’t quite see the mountains, you can still take advantage of the fall colors and rolling meadow scenery from the large, dog and family-friendly beer garden. The brewery has taken over the old Skipping Rock location a short, scenic drive from Staunton. Try the popular Tapped Out pilsner or the seasonal Byers Street Brown. In addition to their beer, Pro Re Nata+ also serves several types of salads and creative, customizable pizzas. An onsite food truck prepared Southern-inspired apps, mains, handhelds, and sides. Finish your meal with an ice cream flight. Stay tuned for upcoming events like live acoustic music and silent discos, where the dance music is shared through headphones, but those who don’t want to listen can opt out.

Seven Arrows Brewing

As the leaves drop off the trees, Seven Arrows Brewing’s view of the distant mountain ridge to the east only grows more beautiful. Snatch your mountain peek from a variety of outdoor seating options on the deck, beer garden, and around the firepit. Don’t skip the toasty Fallen Timbers Oktoberfest, brewed with specialty malts and German noble hops. Nobos Kitchen complements the tap list with a tasty lunch, dinner, and late-night fare. Visit the taproom on Saturday nights for live music. Seven Arrows hosts Tuesday night open mic sessions and Saturday morning yoga. Looking for indoor views? Have a look at the art in the onsite Compass Gallery. You might find something you want to buy for your wall at home.

Zone A

Cave Hill Farms Brewery

The outside seating area at Cave Hill Farms Brewery has shaded tables and stellar views of the farm and mountains. For the best views around, climb the silo stairs to the balcony overlook. Fall beers to try include the Oktoberfest, made with German hops and malts and notes of toffee and caramel, and the Cocoa Kisses chocolate stout. The unique indoor taproom is a huge converted bovine loafing shed with a small farm museum. The museum has exhibits on the making of milk products, pre-electric farm tools, buggies, keys, and more. The Feedlot serves tasty bar food and has a kids’ menu. Catch live music each weekend!

White Oak Lavender Farm

If you haven’t sampled the beer at family-owned White Oak Lavender Farm, the fall is the time to do it. While the lavender blooms earlier in the season, the farm still smells amazing, and you’ll definitely relax as you sip flights of beer, wine, and cider. Toast your toes near a fire pit or enjoy a stroll around the landscaped grounds and pause to look at the mountains in the background. The farm hosts live music, wreath-making classes, and festivals. Kids will love the weekend small animal experience, chances to meet and groom the horses and goats, and lavender ice cream. The gift shop is stocked with great-smelling items like essential oils, candles, bath products, jellies, jams, and other good things to eat.

Make the most of the fall weather, craft beer, and mountain view experience. Plan your trip to a Beerwerks brewery today!

Fall Hikes and Nearby Breweries Along the Beerwerks Trail

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No, your eyes are not deceiving you: the leaves have already started to change. It’s still crazy hot, but autumn is right around the corner. If you’re fantasizing about fall things like sweaters, football, pumpkin-spiced anything, and leaf-peeping along the trail, this is the season for you. Here are nine hikes along the Beerwerks Trail that are especially nice in autumn. Better yet, they’re all a short distance from a Beerwerks brewery where you can refresh and toast the changing seasons.

Zone A

Hightop Summit Trail

15 minutes from Elkton Brewing Co.

You can choose the distance you want to hike to reach the panoramic views at the end of Shenandoah National Park’s out-and-back Hightop Summit Trail. Start at Swift Run Gap to tackle the entire 5.6 miles and a steep climb of 1,480 ft. Alternately, park at the Hightop Mountain pull-in on the Skyline Drive to do an easier 2.3 miles. Time this one right and score a big sunset. Both hikes are all downhill back to your ride. This hike is considered moderate and is one of SNP’s less-traveled trails.

Hidden Rocks Trail

30 minutes from Restless Moons Brewing

Hidden Rock Trail in Hone Quarry Recreation Area is a moderate 2.5-mile hike that follows (and crosses) Rocky Run. Hikers will love looking at the pretty mountain stream, especially where a pool has formed under a waterfall. The trail climbs up Back Mountain to the Hidden Rocks. This cliff formation is a popular scene for rock climbers and you might spot someone mid-climb. The trail continues past the base of the rocks to an overlook on top of the cliff. Nearby Hone Quarry Ridge (5 miles) and Oak Knob (7.9 miles) also pay off with overlooks and opportunities to see migrating birds and autumn leaves.

Massanutten Ridge Trail

15 minutes from BrewHaHa Brewing Company

Massanutten Ridge Trail is a 4.5-mile out-and-back scenic trail that provides impressive views of Massanutten’s ski slopes and surrounding mountains from the top of the ridge. This is a quiet hike with some challenging rocky sections along the ridge. Enjoy the autumn leaf show or plan your upcoming golf or ski trip while you hike. It’s worth it to arrive at sunrise or sunset! 

Zone B

Blue Ridge Tunnel Trail

2 minutes from Basic City Beer Co.

Once the longest railroad tunnel in North America, the Claudius Crozet Blue Ridge Tunnel is now a 4.5-mile out-and-back hiking trail that delves under Afton Mountain. Visitors can hike or bike the trail, including the nearly mile-long tunnel section. The tunnel stays a pleasant 50 degrees year-round, and you might see underground dwellers like crawfish and salamanders. Signage along the trail gives background on the tunnel’s history (it was built in the 1850s and closed to trains in 1944) and the project to restore it, which took nearly 20 years. There is no interior lighting, so visitors should bring flashlights. 

Calvary and Chimney Rock

35 minutes from Seven Arrows Brewing Company

Located in Shenandoah National Park, the Calvary and Chimney Rock hike is a moderate 3.4-mile out-and-back hike with two impressive overlooks and large, interesting rock formations. Turn around and head back to your car or extend the hike into the 10-mile Riprap Loop.

Elliot Knob 

20 minutes from Redbeard Brewing Company

The tough 8.1-mile out-and-back Elliot Knob hike climbs to a fire tower on the highest peak in Augusta County. The hike begins gently, traversing woodland scenery and following Falls Hollow Run as it works through the forest. Rest and admire the pools and waterfalls. The final steep mile and a half, along a fire road, will have your quads crying…in both directions! The summit is open and grassy, and it offers wonderful views and a private place to rest and eat lunch.

Zone C

Chessie Trail

5 minutes from Heliotrope Brewery

You won’t have to drive along miles of switchbacks to get to Chessie Trail, which can be accessed from either Lexington or Buena Vista and connects the two. Ideal for strolling or riding your bike, the 7-mile (each way) trail follows an old railroad bed and hugs the scenic Maury River. The well-maintained gravel trail is flat and quiet and runs through forested and open land. There’s a good chance you’ll see some native wildlife.

Mt. Pleasant Trail

40 minutes from Devils Backbone Outpost Taproom & Kitchen

Mt. Pleasant Trail is a well-maintained 5.5-mile loop trail that’s loaded with interesting things to look at including two summits with beautiful views. This hike is good for a long day hike, but hikers hoping to stay longer can claim one of several established campsites near the mountain’s saddle. October is a wonderful time to visit and photograph the changing leaves.

House Mountain Trail

25 minutes from Great Valley Farm Brewery and Winery

The tough 8.2-mile House Mountain Trail follows an old Jeep trail up the mountain and splits when you get to the saddle between the two peaks. This spot was once a homestead and you can still see an old structure and some apple trees. From here, you can pick a peak to climb (or tackle both). Big House Mountain looks west from the top of a 100-foot high cliff, and to reach it, you’ll cover 1.7 challenging miles and climb 740 feet. Little House Mountain looks northeast, and the trail is 2.6 miles long and has a strenuous 940-foot climb. Many people tag both peaks for the full 8.2 miles.

One of the best ways to celebrate fall is with a beautiful hike followed by a cold beer. Make plans to hit the trail this weekend!

Water Fun Along the Beerwerks Trail

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Summer is here, and it’s time to get outside. Whether you’re mowing, barbequing, exploring, or having fun outside, you’ll work up a sweat. Here’s how to cool off with a visit to one of the Valley’s best water features for paddling, swimming, fishing, or hiking. Make sure you finish the day with an icy brew at a nearby Beerwerks brewery.

Paddling

The area’s rivers and lakes provide both calm water and rapids to explore!

The South River flows through Waynesboro, and the section from Ridgeview Park to Basic Park makes up the 4-mile Waynesboro Water Trail, which connects several parks with launch access for canoes, kayaks, and tubes. It’s also one of only two urban trout fisheries in the state, and anglers can take advantage of launches for small craft, a fishing platform, and habitats constructed for fish. Since the water trail runs through the city, visitors can beach their boats and easily access park and downtown amenities. Nearby Rockfish Gap Outfitters rents canoes and kayaks if you don’t have one of your own. 

The Upper James River Water Trail is one of only three east coast rivers named in Paddling Magazine’s “Best Places to Paddle in America.” Including parts of the James and Maury Rivers, the waterway offers 59 scenic miles with 12 public access points and extensive opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, and rafting adventures. The river trail includes smooth, family-friendly stretches and areas of whitewater for those seeking to practice technical skills. If you’re looking for an overnight adventure, hop out and camp at one of many riverside campgrounds. Several stocked trout streams feed into the UJRWT, providing some of Virginia’s best bass, catfish, and sunfish fishing. 

Swimming

Escape the heat and humidity with a plunge.

Sherando Lake Recreation Area beckons you for the day or weekend with an icy 25-acre spring-fed mountain lake. Not only is it incredibly beautiful, but it’s also a wonderful place to swim, paddle, fish, and play. Spread blankets in the shade as kids frolic on the big, sandy beach. A roped-off swimming area provides safety. The area also has a campground, bathrooms with showers, and miles of hiking and biking trails in the surrounding national forest. Anglers love fishing the lake from a bank, boat, or fishing pier. 

The Massanutten Water Park isn’t a natural body of water, but you’ll definitely have fun! Hit the slides and wave pools inside and out. The park, a top-ten favorite of Parents Magazine, Budget Travel Magazine, and USA Today, offers slides, pools, lazy rivers, 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. New outdoor slides include the twisting double-tube Peak Plunge and the zero-gravity sensation, MASS Mayhem. 

Fishing

With its solitude, scenery, and numerous freshwater species, the Shenandoah Valley is an East Coast fishing hotspot. 

Stocked with brown trout, Mossy Creek makes a worthy destination for experienced fly fishermen. The creek flows through private property, but landowners along with The Virginia Department of Game & Inland Fisheries and Trout Unlimited have made a four-mile stretch open to the public to fish from the bank.

Located in George Washington and Jefferson National Forests, Braley Pond boasts a beautiful, forested setting that’s easy to access. The pond is stocked with rainbow trout, and fishermen can also catch largemouth bass, channel catfish, and bluegill. Nearby, 54-acre Elkhorn Lake supplies water to the city of Staunton and is managed for both warm and cold-water fishing of largemouth bass, bluegill, sunfish, and channel catfish. 

One of our favorite locations for introducing kids to the sport is Staunton’s Lake Tams. This stocked 2.5-acre pond is home to largemouth bass, bluegill, and channel catfish. This site boasts ample parking, clear and gently sloping banks, and room to set up lawn chairs. It’s also close to playgrounds if the kids need a break. Lake Tams Is home to annual fishing derbies for youth and seniors.  

Waterfall Hikes

Spend a hot spring or summer day hiking to a waterfall. The icy dip will feel incredible.

Many Shenandoah National Park hikes pay off with waterfalls and shaded trails. Located in the southern portion of the park, the Jones/Doyles Falls hike is a 6.6-mile loop with places to dip your feet and some gorgeous spots to photograph the falls. Nearby, the 9.5-mile Riprap Hollow Trail is considered one of the best in the area. Explore the mountain streams as you navigate crossings and photograph a 20-foot waterfall and smaller cascades. The star of the show, however, is an incredible 50-foot-wide swimming hole. 

If you’re visiting the central region of SNP, try the 4.8-mile South River Falls hike. It will take you past two old cemeteries to the base of a striking 83-foot cascade. The popular and moderately difficult hike will get you in the mood for a cold brew. 

1,200-ft high Crabtree Falls is one of the highest vertical-drop cascading waterfalls east of the Mississippi. The up-and-back 3.8-mile trail offers close-up vantages of five major cascades and a magnificent view of the Tye River Valley from the top. If you want to swim under a waterfall, set your sights on St. Mary’s Falls. The out-and-back hike totals 4 miles with multiple water crossings along the Saint Mary’s River. The exhilarating payoff is an icy mountain pool and scenic waterfall, so pack a picnic and swimsuit and stay awhile.

Lakes and rivers along the Beerwerks Trail are ideal destinations when the weather gets steamy. Spend a hot afternoon enjoying one of our water features and follow it up with a refreshing visit to a Beerwerks brewery.