January 11, 2026
Last hike in the Central District! We parked at Jewell Hollow (mile marker 36) and
parked in the Upper Panorama Parking lot (south of the Thornton Gap Entrance). It’s
hard to believe that once we finish this section, we are off to the last leg of the Park-
The Northern District.
We began our trek with a moderate elevation gain of 340’ in .7 miles, to the first
viewpoint of the day. We had a lovely view of Page Valley and New Market Gap. We
continued for another mile on a well maintained, rolling path to Byrd’s Nest Shelter #3.
We continued a steady ascent to the Meadow Spring trail marker and sat on some
boulders to have a snack and water break. We continued our trek up to Mary’s Rock
summit and followed the trail marker to the right to start our 1100’ descent to the parking
lot. This descent was rocky but well maintained. On our way to the parking lot, we met
up with hikers that were going to the summit. This descent had some lovely views of the
Piedmont and Pass Mountain.
Stats- 4.85 miles/839’ elevation gain
Central District Totals- 36.74 miles/7618’ elevation gain
Park Totals- 79.35 miles/18,767’ elevation gain
