Because of the steep grade the
first two miles of the Little Devils Stairs hike in
the Shenandoah
National Park can be tough if the day
is warm. The best time to do this hike is the early
spring when water levels are at a peak, making the numerous waterfalls
along Keiser Run that much nicer. At one point the trail even passes
through a small set of falls. Enjoy spectacular views of either side of
the gorge as the Little Devils Stairs trail gets closer to the top of
the gorge.
The second half of the hike follows the Keyser Run Fire Road back down past the Bolen Cemetery. This is a pleasant walk through some old growth. If you would like to make this hike longer add the 3 sections of the Piney Branch hike to make the circuit a little over 9.0 miles.
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Mile 0.0 –The hike will begin up the right side of the parking area
on the blue blazed Little Devils Stairs Trail. After 0.9 miles
the grade will increase sharply as the trail climbs
the ravine, and starts crisscrossing Keyser Run.
The Little Devils Stairs Trail is hard to spot in places and you have to look for the blue blazes on the trees. However, if you believe you've lost the trail it's difficult to go too far off track, as the gorge is very narrow and trail runs along one side or the other of the stream. As you climb up the gorge there are several spots that require hand over hand climbing.
Near the top of the ravine The Little Devils Stairs Trail becomes less steep, then makes several switchbacks before leveling off completely and arriving at the intersection of the Keyser Run Fire Road, and four way junction.
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Mile 2.2 - Turn left down the yellow blazed Keyser Run Fire Road and in 2.0 miles enter an old hemlock
forest before arriving at the Bolen Cemetery
and intersection
of the for the the Hull
School Trail.
-
Mile 4.8 - Stay left down
the yellow blazed Keyser Run Fire road where it becomes steeper
for the final 1.2 miles back to the parking area.
- Mile 5.3 - Arrive back at the parking area.
