Emerald Pond - Bird Knob (Rating : A)

You must read the following NVHC Sign-in Sheet Statement/Liability Disclaimer, https://nvhc.com/signin.pdf and then answer the question that you will see when you RSVP with "I accept" to be permitted on the hike.

11 miles with 2,400 feet elevation gain.

Description:
This hike will be in the George Washington & Jefferson National Forests, where we will hike the Emerald Pond-Bird Knob circuit. We begin at the now closed old Massanutten Visitor Center at New Market Gap and then use the Massanutten South, Browns Hollow, Roaring Run, and Bird Knob trails to form the circuit. Emerald Pond, a small pond about midway through, provides a great spot for lunch and cooling off your feet. Bird Knob provides a great overlook vista to the west. There may be a couple of stream crossings depending on recent rains, some stone stepping involved.

Hiking Pace:
The pace will be 2.5 mph, slower uphill.

Bring:
At least 2-3 liters of water/hydration, snacks/lunch, and sturdy hiking shoes since there are some rocky areas and tree roots. Hiking poles if you use them. Recommend insect repellent and sunscreen.

Note Difficulty:
Rating: A (difficult). You must be experienced in hikes of this distance and elevation gain. There are some significant climbs.

Fee:
There is no parking fee for this hike.

Dogs:
Dogs are permitted on this hike in accordance with the NVHC Dog Policy. https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy. Please ensure your dog is capable of this distance and elevation gain.

CARPOOLING:

For those who are looking to carpool, meet at and plan to leave at 7:15am to arrive at the trailhead in time to get signed in and start hiking at 9am. Centreville Park & Ride GPS 38.836038, -77.455371\.\

Neither the Club nor the hike leader is responsible for coordinating transportation to/from the trailhead. Hikers are not guaranteed to get a ride to the trailhead from the carpool location. Carpooling is organized by the participants and they participate at their own risk. Suggested carpool fee: $10.00 per rider. Driving time from Centreville Park & Ride to trailhead is about 1 hour 40 minutes.

Note: If you are driving directly to the trailhead, meet at the trailhead at 9:00 am at the old Massanutten Visitor Center (now closed) GPS Coordinates: 38.642621, -78.611218 https://goo.gl/maps/GFpkeLKNkshFMxv4A

Maps:

https://www.alltrails.com/explore/recording/emerald-pond-9cea886?u=i&sh=oxfau4

Any questions?
Message me on Meetup messenger or text me, 703-310-8659. If you text me, please include your name.