Hike: Buzzard Rock / Elizabeth Furnace, Massanutten Mtns.

$36. Long hike: 10½ mi., 2600 ft. elevation gain. Moderate hike: 7¼ mi., 1800 ft. elevation gain.

First, after a short climb on Buzzard Rock Trail, we come to Buzzard Rock itself  and its memorable view. Then, we proceed with a gradual ascent along a narrow ridge, with beautiful vistas on both sides that are only possible during winter months when the leaves are off the deciduous trees. We continue to Shawl Gap, where moderate hikers turn on the Massanutten Trail down to Elizabeth Furnace and the Signal Knob parking area. Long hikers add about 3 miles of distance and 800 feet of elevation by continuing along the ridgeline before turning back to reach the Furnace via descent on the Sherman Gap and Botts Trails.