Big Run Loop Trail
Big Run Loop Trail connects with other trails and can be used to make several different circuit hikes of various lengths. Both ends of the trail are accessible from Skyline Drive and have nearby parking areas.
We started out on a rather chilly March afternoon at the Browns Gap parking lot. Before starting the hike, we parked a second car at the Big Run Overlook so that we could ride back to our starting point. However, if you get started early enough, one can make a nice 6-7 mile circuit hike by walking back along the Appalachian Trail (AT).
 |
From left to right: Shawn, Kathy, Darrell and Bernie
Not pictured: Nancy, our hike
photographer |
At Browns Gap, the AT crosses Skyline Drive, and it was from the parking lot that we proceeded north. Hiking along the AT for about a half mile, we came up to the cement post that marks the trail head for the Big Run Loop Trail. We turned left to head towards Big Run, leaving the famous AT behind. It wasn't long before we came up to an area of dead oak trees, presumably killed off by the gypsy moths that have been invading the park. There were several felled trees across the trail. Fortunately, the park rangers had already been there to cut away the debris.
Sometimes the rangers
get a little creative. |
 |
After about another half mile, the trail comes to a 4-way intersection. Straight ahead is Rockytop Trail, to the left is a short spur that goes to the Madison Run Road and back up to the parking lot. To stay on our course to Big Run, we turned right and proceeded down.
Before long, we came to a large boulder beside the trail. This is
one of my favorite places to stop and rest and there is a nice
view to the northwest.
After a short break, we continued following the trail. A couple of sharp turns (switchbacks) later, we arrive at the bottom and Big Run.
 |
 |
A really nice place to stop, have a picnic lunch (be sure to pack out your trash), take photos and enjoy the tranquil sounds of the running stream. Here also is the junction with the Big Run Portal Trail.
After making sure we were on the right trail, we walked across some stones to cross the river and began our journey back up.
 |
The trail climbs up and then goes along a ridge. It is over 2 miles back up to the Big Run Overlook where we had parked our other vehicle. |
 |
Stopping occasionally to rest, we hiked along until we got to some sharp switchbacks and then reached the Skyline Drive.
From the Big Run Overlook, there is a fantastic view of the valley.