Bears Den Overlook
Breathtaking overlook on the Appalachian Trail offering panoramic views of the Shenandoah Valley and Blue Ridge Mountains. Perfect for short hikes and...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Bears Den Overlook
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Breathtaking overlook on the Appalachian Trail offering panoramic views of the Shenandoah Valley and Blue Ridge Mountains. Perfect for short hikes and stunning sunsets.
"Spectacular view with great trails and near Bear Chase Brewery!"
🚗 Parking & Trailheads
Two main access points: Snickers Gap (Rt. 7) or a smaller lot. Weekdays are best for parking!
🥾 Easy to Moderate Hike
The main trail to the overlook is about 1-1.5 miles roundtrip, suitable for most fitness levels.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Overlook
Rocky outcropping on the Appalachian Trail
A breathtaking westward view of the Shenandoah Valley and Blue Ridge Mountains. Perfect for photos and sunset watching.
Appalachian Trail Section
Directly accessible from the overlook
Hike a portion of this famous trail, enjoying the natural beauty and connecting to a larger network of paths.
Rocky Scrambling Areas
Around the overlook
Explore the unique rock formations and enjoy a bit of light scrambling for added adventure.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Views
Trail Etiquette and Accessibility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking & Trailheads
Two main access points: Snickers Gap (Rt. 7) or a smaller lot. Weekdays are best for parking!
🥾 Easy to Moderate Hike
The main trail to the overlook is about 1-1.5 miles roundtrip, suitable for most fitness levels.
🌅 Sunset Spectacle
The westward view makes it a prime spot for sunset. Arrive early to secure a good seat on the rocks.
📸 Photo Opportunities
Bring your camera! The valley views, rock formations, and fall colors are incredibly photogenic. 
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking & Trailheads
Two main access points: Snickers Gap (Rt. 7) or a smaller lot. Weekdays are best for parking!
🥾 Easy to Moderate Hike
The main trail to the overlook is about 1-1.5 miles roundtrip, suitable for most fitness levels.
🌅 Sunset Spectacle
The westward view makes it a prime spot for sunset. Arrive early to secure a good seat on the rocks.
📸 Photo Opportunities
Bring your camera! The valley views, rock formations, and fall colors are incredibly photogenic.
🍻 Post-Hike Refreshments
Bear Chase Brewery is nearby for post-hike drinks and food with a view.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Bears Den Overlook for its spectacular, unobstructed views of the Shenandoah Valley and Blue Ridge Mountains, making it a prime sunset-watching spot. The accessible, relatively short hike is a major draw, with many appreciating the opportunity to explore sections of the Appalachian Trail. Some note that while the main trail is easy, surrounding areas can be more challenging.
"This was a favorite hiking trail when my senior dog and I would want a bit of fresh air. It's only a mile to the overlook. And what a view!
What's best is that the trail goes up to the overlook and down back to the parking lot. You can choose to keep hiking on the network of trails that intersect at the top, or continue on the Appalachian Trail."
Fit and Grandmother
"Good hiking trail to exercise and enjoy nature !! Perfect place to escape summer heat !!
I found two types of mushrooms on my way to the overlook."
Thy Phan
"This is a must visit! It's a spectacular view with great trails and near Bear Chase Brewery where there's a spectacular view on the other side!"
Elle Belle
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bears Den Overlook is located off Route 7 in Bluemont, Virginia. There are two main access points: the Snickers Gap trailhead parking lot directly on Rt. 7, or a smaller parking area. It's about an hour's drive from Washington D.C.
Yes, there are parking areas available. The Snickers Gap trailhead is a common starting point. Arriving on weekdays or earlier in the day is recommended to ensure parking availability, especially during peak seasons.
Absolutely! Bears Den Overlook is a section of the Appalachian Trail, making it easily accessible for thru-hikers and day-trippers alike.
Public transport options are limited for reaching Bears Den Overlook due to its rural location. Driving is the most convenient way to access the trailhead.
From Washington D.C., take I-66 West towards Front Royal, then take exit 43A for US-50 West towards Winchester. Continue on US-50 West and then merge onto US-340 North towards Berryville. Finally, take VA-7 East towards Bluemont, and you'll find the trailhead access.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no admission fees or tickets required to visit Bears Den Overlook. It is a public access point on the Appalachian Trail.
Bears Den Overlook is accessible year-round, dawn to dusk, as it is part of a public trail system. There are no set operating hours.
There is no entrance fee for hiking to Bears Den Overlook. The trails are free to access.
Time slot bookings are not necessary as Bears Den Overlook is a public access area. You can visit anytime during daylight hours.
Generally, no special permits are required for personal photography at Bears Den Overlook. However, for commercial or large-scale professional shoots, it's always best to check with local park authorities.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The hike to Bears Den Overlook is generally considered easy to moderate. The most direct route is about 1 to 1.5 miles roundtrip, with some rocky sections.
The hike to the overlook typically takes about 30-60 minutes roundtrip, depending on your pace and how much time you spend enjoying the view.
You can expect spectacular westward views of the Shenandoah Valley and the Blue Ridge Mountains. It's a popular spot for sunset viewing.
Restroom facilities are not typically available directly at the overlook or the immediate trailheads. It's advisable to use facilities before you arrive or at nearby establishments like Bear Chase Brewery.
Yes, the main trail to the overlook is generally suitable for children, though they should be supervised due to the rocky terrain. Some families find it a great homeschooling adventure.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Bear Chase Brewery is located very close to Bears Den Overlook and offers food and drinks with a view. Other dining options can be found in nearby Bluemont or Leesburg.
While there are no designated picnic areas, you can enjoy a picnic on the rock ledges at the overlook. Remember to pack out all your trash.
Bear Chase Brewery typically serves pub-style food, including appetizers, sandwiches, and burgers, often with a focus on local ingredients.
Alcohol is generally not permitted on the trails or at the overlook itself, as it's part of a public natural area. You can enjoy drinks at the nearby Bear Chase Brewery.
No, there are no food vendors directly on the trail to Bears Den Overlook. It's recommended to bring your own snacks or visit nearby establishments.
📸 📸 Photography
The best times for photography are during the golden hours – early morning and late afternoon – for soft, beautiful light. Sunsets are particularly stunning here.
The main overlook with the expansive valley view is a must-capture. The unique rock formations and the Appalachian Trail itself also offer great photographic opportunities.
Yes, Bears Den Overlook is a popular spot for engagement and proposal photography due to its scenic beauty.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscape. A tripod can be helpful for sunset shots or if you're shooting in lower light conditions.
Drone usage may be restricted in natural areas. It's advisable to check with local authorities or park regulations before flying a drone at Bears Den Overlook.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 The rocky terrain around the overlook can add an element of adventure, and many kids enjoy exploring the formations. Remember to supervise children closely due to the uneven ground. Pair your visit with nearby family attractions like Great Country Farms or Wayside Farm Fun for a full day of outdoor enjoyment. The proximity to Bear Chase Brewery also offers a relaxed spot for parents to enjoy a drink while kids can have some space to move around.
🚶♀️ Solo Hikers & Nature Lovers
It's a great spot for quiet contemplation or for capturing beautiful nature photography. Nature lovers will appreciate the opportunity to hike a section of the AT and enjoy the natural beauty of the Shenandoah Valley and Blue Ridge Mountains. Keep an eye out for local flora and fauna, and remember to practice Leave No Trace principles to preserve the area's natural state.
📸 Photographers & Sunset Chasers
Bring your wide-angle lens to capture the expansive landscape and a tripod for low-light shooting. The unique rock formations also offer interesting foreground elements for your shots. Proposals and engagement photoshoots are common here, highlighting the romantic and picturesque setting.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Hiking Trails and Routes
For those seeking a longer adventure, the AT network around Bears Den provides more extensive options. You can continue on the AT past the main overlook for several miles, or explore intersecting trails that lead to other scenic points. Some reviews mention a more challenging downhill trail on one side of the overlook, suggesting varied terrain for exploration.
When planning your hike, consider the Snickers Gap trailhead on Route 7 as a primary access point. Another option is a smaller parking area that also leads to the overlook. Regardless of your chosen path, the reward is a stunning vista that makes the effort worthwhile.
The Scenic Overlook Experience
+1Many visitors find the overlook to be a perfect spot for relaxation and reflection. The ample space on the rock ledges allows people to sit, enjoy the scenery, and soak in the tranquility, even when other visitors are present. It's a place where you can truly connect with nature and appreciate the vastness of the landscape.
Beyond the main view, the area around the overlook is characterized by unique rock formations and the rugged beauty of the Appalachian Trail. This makes it an engaging spot for exploration, with opportunities for light scrambling and discovering interesting geological features.
Nearby Attractions and Activities
For families, there are several kid-friendly spots in the vicinity, including Great Country Farms, Wayside Farm Fun, and Grutos Soft Serve for a sweet treat. Outdoor enthusiasts might also enjoy Sky Meadows State Park, which offers its own set of trails and scenic vistas.
+1The location in Bluemont, VA, also places it within easy reach of other Northern Virginia attractions, making it a versatile addition to a broader travel itinerary. Whether you're looking for more hiking, local breweries, or family entertainment, the area surrounding Bears Den Overlook has something to offer.
+1
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