Buzzard Rocks, Massanutten Mtn., GWNF, VA

Sign up link (please remember to fill in your required RSVP info):
https://www.meetup.com/wanderbirds-hiking-club/events/316682864/?slug=wanderbirds-hiking-club

(Bus hike) This excursion takes us to the extensive view overlooking the Fort Valley, where George Washington did some of his earliest surveying. Both hikes start at the Massanutten Mtn. East Trailhead parking area off Rte 619 and end at Elizabeth Furnace, but follow somewhat different routes. All hikers ascend the Massanutten Mtn East Trail to the top of the ridge, and turn southward, soon passing along Buzzard Rocks Cliffs. Long hikers continue to the Sherman Gap Trail, then turn right descending to the Botts Trail to Elizabeth Furnace Recreation Area. Moderate hikers leave the Massanutten Mtn East Trail and turn right at Shawl Gap, descending to Elizabeth Furnace Parking Lot on the Tuscarora - Shawl Gap Trails Est.: 9.5 miles, 1900' elevation and 6.5 miles, 1400'. Map: PATC Map G. Fare: $37. Note: Fare increase is due to the increased cost of diesel fuel since the start of our latest southwest asia happening.

DC: Near 17th and K St. NW downtown (east side of Farragut Square). Bus leaves at 8 a.m. SHARP, so it's essential to arrive well before 8 am.
Vienna Metro: NORTH parking lot, last bus shelter (Nutley St. Exit off Interstate 66 on North/Vienna side of I-66) at approximately 8:25 a.m. Park at 9486 Virginia Center Blvd, Vienna, VA 22181

Caution: The Metro South Parking Lot also has bus shelters, but is the incorrect pick-up point. If by 8:15, you're not with a group of Wanderbirds hikers, you are in the south lot. There's a walkway that passes the fare gates over I-66 to the north lot.

RESERVATIONS
Wanderbirds Hiking Club is a 501(c)(7) non-profit, and the public is invited on all hiking trips. Reservations are accepted as late as Saturday, but reserving as early in the week as possible helps ensure your spot and prevent cancellation of the hike due to low sign-ups. RSVP through Meetup and pay through PayPal. Please be sure your RSVP gives your full name and phone number and where you'll be boarding the bus.
FIRST-TIME HIKERS
If you're a first-time hiker with us, please notify the leaders in advance so they can make sure you have the info you require. Hikers must be able to keep a 2-mph (30 min/mile) pace. New hikers are required to first complete a moderate hike with us.
LIABILITY WAIVER
Many of our hikes take place in remote wilderness areas where cell phone service is not available. Any person participating in any Club activity is responsible for their own safety, health and welfare, and must assume all risks and liabilities related to all Club activities. The Club, its hike leaders, hike sweeps, officers, and other representatives are not liable for any injuries, losses, or damage to persons, children, pets, and/or property, arising from any trips or activities of the Club. You are responsible for bringing enough water, food, and first aid supplies, including those for your personal medical conditions.
CANCELLATION POLICY
To cancel and receive a full bus hike refund, less a $5 processing fee, you must change your RSVP to "No" on Meetup before NOON on the Friday before the hike. If you change your RSVP after twelve noon on the Friday before the hike, a refund will not be issued.
Cancellations to Metro/carpool/trailhead hikes will not issue a financial refund, but hikers are implored to change their Meetup RSVP to NO so that leaders do not wait for them at the trailhead.
FLU, COVID-19, and RSV PRECAUTIONS
Anyone experiencing symptoms of upper respiratory illness should not attend the event.
MORE DETAILS -- SEE THE FAQS ON OUR WEBSITE