Second Mountain Trail

Total Miles
5.4

Elevation

1,075.71 ft

Duration

1.5 Hours

Technical Rating

4

Moderate

Best Time

Spring, Summer, Fall

Trail Overview

The trail starts at the top at a small staging area frequently used to offload SxS vehicles or at the bottom off US-33. There is a gate at the top and bottom for controlled access by the Forest Service; check online for status alerts at https://www.fs.usda.gov. The trail changed a lot in 2023 with the Dominion Energy project. There are several new access roads to the powerlines that should be avoided, and the top of the trail is covered in 1 to 2-inch rocks similar to gravel. The bottom half of the trail has not changed much, with a natural dirt trail and rocks boasting a few obstacles and off-camber sections of the trail. After a good rain, you can find several water holes along the lower half of the trail. This is a fun trail if you like something a little more challenging than gravel roads, and it offers beautiful views. Cell phone service is available on most of the trail.

Photos of Second Mountain Trail

Second Mountain Trail
Second Mountain Trail

Difficulty

Expect uneven, rutted dirt trail with loose rocks, erosion, and washouts. This is typically unmaintained after rain or snow and you may encounter water crossings up to 12 inches on the trail, including small ledges. The road is typically one vehicle wide with places to pass. There is one off-camber section that offers a bypass.

Technical Rating

4

Access Description

This trail runs along FR-502 located in the George Washington National Forest and can be accessed off US-33 or from the top via Dictum Ridge at the intersection of Long Run and Vepco Road.

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