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15 km / 9.3 miles • Hard • Loop The Mary’s Rock Loop via Buck Ridge Trail is one of Shenandoah’s most rewarding big‑day circuits — a blend of steep climbs, quiet hollows, historic remnants, and one of the most iconic viewpoints on the Blue Ridge crest. This loop packs in everything: leg‑burning stairs, stream crossings, ridge walking, and a summit that’s been guiding travelers for generations. Trail Overview Starting from the small Buck Hollow parking area off Route 211, the loop wastes no time waking up your legs. The Buck Ridge Trail launches straight into a famously steep half‑mile climb with more than 660 stone steps — a rhythm‑finding grind that earns you early views and a quick sense of accomplishment. From there, the trail continues steadily uphill through hardwood forest, passing a rock overlook before meeting the Hazel Mountain Trail. Hikers can shorten the loop here, but most continue upward toward Mary’s Rock. After crossing Skyline Drive, the Meadow Spring Trail climbs past the ruins of an old mountain homestead, a reminder of the families who lived and farmed these slopes long before the park was established. A final push along the Appalachian Trail leads to the Mary’s Rock spur — and the payoff. The Summit Mary’s Rock offers a 360° panorama that early surveyors relied on when mapping the Blue Ridge. Today, it’s simply one of Shenandoah’s best viewpoints. A short rock scramble brings you to the true summit, where you can look out over Thornton Gap, the rolling ridges of the park, and the patchwork of farmland below. The Descent Retrace your steps to Skyline Drive, then drop into Buck Hollow — a quieter, gentler valley lined with stream crossings and soft forest floor. This section feels worlds away from the rocky ridge, offering a peaceful cooldown as you follow the water back toward the trailhead. Trail Stats • Distance: 9.3 miles (≈15 km) • Elevation Gain: 2,588 ft • Time: 5.5–6 hours • Difficulty: Hard • Route Type: Loop • Dogs: Allowed on leash Tips • Trekking poles help on the steep Buck Ridge stairs. • Start early — parking is limited. • Winter brings clearer views but colder ridge winds. • If you’re already at Skyline Drive, adding Mary’s Rock is absolutely worth the extra distance. https://linktr.ee/mangyanwalker This is not a sponsored video. All contents are genuinely my own. This post also contains affiliate links, and I earn a small commission if you purchase after clicking on my links. It doesn't cost you any extra. Thank you for your continued support in keeping Hike with Mangyan going!