St. Mary's Wilderness

This area could have a web site all it's own because there are so many ways to hike through it. First, I highly recommend getting one or more maps to help navigate. The Forest Service has published "Recreation Guide R8-RG 49" or purchase PATC Map 12 "Rockfish Gap to Tye River Gap" at any good hiking supply store.

There are two approaches, first let's look at it from the Blue Ridge Parkway. The Mine Bank Trail descends from the Parkway down into the wilderness area. This hike is what I call "from the top down," in other words, you're hiking down from a higher elevation. Just remember to have plenty of food, water and allow extra time to hike back up to your starting location.

There is an entrance for the parking area a few yards from the Fork Mountain Overlook, mile marker 23. At the trail head is a bulletin board maintained by the Forest Service. Be sure to stop and look at any announcements or restrictions posted. The trail drops about 2 miles, passing by an old abandoned manganese mine, and meets with the St. Mary's Trail.

The other way to enter the wilderness area is from the Valley. Go south from Stuarts Draft on VA 608 to Forest Service (FS) road 41. You'll know that you're getting close when you see the Mt. Joy Church and cemetery. The FS 41 takes you into the George Washington National Forest and comes to a small parking area and trail head. From here you can hike to your heart's content, since the St. Mary's Trail goes for several miles into the wilderness. Camping is allowed so that you could backpack in for the weekend. Be sure to check the bulletin board for any posted announcements or restrictions.