Tri-County Hike
This out and back hike from US 48/55 to Gerhard Shelter passes a stone marker designating the junction of three counties in two states. Frederick Co VA, Shenandoah Co VA, and Hardy Co WV. There are also several good vistas along the hike. The view from the second campsite, views east and west from the clear-cut, and the view east from the tri-county marker. Gerhard Shelter has room around it for several tents, and a spring is located 0.25 miles down the white blazed Gerhard Shelter Trail. Besides as a day hike, this also makes for a nice weekend backpack.- Mile 0.0 – From the parking area on US 48/55 pass around the closed forestry gate on the blue blazed Tuscarora Trail, then shortly pass an informational kiosk and bench. The first section of trail is moss covered during the summer months and follows and old forestry road. The Tuscarora Trail from US 48/55 to Gerhard Shelter straddles the VA/WV border the entire way.
- Mile 0.5 - Pass a campsite at a small clearing on the left. The campsite is overgrown during the warmer months, but clear and suitable for multiple tents otherwise. From this point the Tuscarora Trail will become steeper and has limited views through the trees as it continues along the ridge. This is the steepest section of the hike. Pass over the first knob and through a small saddle continuing along the ridge.
- Mile 1.8 - Pass a campsite on the left with nice views through the gap. Again this campsite can be more overgrown in the warmer months, but is clear and has room for multiple tents late Fall through early Spring. In another 100 yards pass through a utility clear cut with panoramic views to the east and west. After the clear-cut the blue blazed Tuscarora Trail becomes more narrow. Continue along the ridge as the Tuscarora trail passes over two more rises then look for a small side trail on the left.
- Mile 2.9 - Take the side trail on the left to an overlook to the east where a stone marker is located. The marker designates where three counties and two states meet. Frederick Co VA, Shenandoah Co VA, and Hardy Co WV. For the next 1.4 miles the trail passes over four more knolls before arriving at Gerhard Shelter.
- Mile 4.3 - Gerhard Shelter has a large fire ring, and enough space surrounding it for several tents. There is a spring located 0.25 miles downhill on the white blazed Gerhard Shelter Trail. Gerhard Shelter is the turn around point for the hike. Retrace your route back to the north.
- Mile 8.2 - Arrive back at US 48/55 and parking area.
