As we made our way up, the mountain revealed its true, unpredictable self. Reaching the tree line felt like crossing into a different realm – the clouds thickened, and a cold, fierce wind began to howl, transforming our hike into a battle against nature. What we anticipated to be a 4.5-hour hike up transformed into a difficult journey, and doubts began to creep in, especially for my wife, about descending the same way.

The wind and rain were relentless on the summit. We huddled up inside the visitor center cafe, warming ourselves with soup, hoping the storm would pass. It did not. That is when my wife began conversing with the two young hikers from Connecticut. They planned to descend via the Nelson Crag Trail, a route unfamiliar to us, and without a map on hand, it was a gamble. But, driven by a sense of adventure and trust in the fellow hikers, we decided to join them.

The descent was quite challenging. The rain, the wind, the fog, it was like being in a different world. The path was just rocks and boulders, barely visible. We were equipped with rain jackets, but our hands were exposed, quickly numbing in the cold. Rain found its way into our boots, and the trail seemed to stretch endlessly before us. However, my wife’s spirit was unbreakable. Her determination was my beacon in that storm. Despite the grueling condition, she pushed on, her resolve unwavering.

It was a five-hour ordeal before we finally reached the Notch, the starting point of our journey. The day had turned to dusk, and we were a picture of exhaustion – hungry, drenched, and physically spent. It was a moment of realization, understanding the full extent of what we had just accomplished. – a ten-hour hike trial that tested our physical and mental limits.

We owe a debt of gratitude to the two hikers from Connecticut. They were our unexpected guides, and although we shared small conversations along the way, they had to leave before we could properly thank them. This challenging hike, more than just a physical journey, became a significant milestone in our relationship. I saw my wife in a new light, her resilience and courage in the face of adversity deepening my respect and love for her. I shared with her my own vulnerabilities during the descent, and in that honesty, our connection grew stronger. Mt. Washington, for us, is more than a conquered summit; it symbolizes our shared strength, the unyielding spirit that binds us, and the deep, enduring love that we discovered in each other amidst the challenges.

We tackled this 8.9-mile loop, considered moderate to strenuous, and it certainly lived up to the rating. While it’s a popular trail, especially for hiking, birding, and even rock climbing, the crowds weren’t overwhelming except at the summit. The route features streamside paths, incredible vistas, and a lot of elevation gain—especially if you opt to summit Mary’s Rock.

Trail Description & Highlights
We recommend hiking the loop clockwise, starting from the parking area off Route 211. Begin by crossing a stream and turning left onto the blue-blazed Buck Ridge Trail. The first half mile is particularly intense, featuring over 660 steps and gaining about 900 feet in elevation—a tough climb that will test your legs right from the start.

After pushing through the stair-heavy ascent, you’ll pass a rock outcrop with sweeping views before reaching a T-junction. Here, go right onto the yellow-blazed Hazel Mountain Trail, leading you to the Hazel Mountain parking area on Skyline Drive.

At this point, you have two options:
Turn right onto Buck Hollow Trail to shorten the loop.
Continue to Mary’s Rock for an extended adventure.

If continuing to Mary’s Rock:
Cross Skyline Drive and head 50 yards left uphill to the Meadow Spring Trail.
Hike 0.6 miles, passing an old homestead ruin, to the Appalachian Trail (AT).

Turn right onto the AT and follow it for 0.8 miles.

At the junction with Mary’s Rock Lookout Trail, go left for the final climb to the vista. There’s a short but fun rock scramble before reaching the summit.

Reaching the summit of Mary’s Rock was, without a doubt, the highlight of the hike. After a steep final push and a short rock scramble, we were rewarded with panoramic views that took our breath away. From the top, we could see rolling ridgelines stretching endlessly across Shenandoah National Park, with layers of blue mountains fading into the horizon. The Skyline Drive wound like a ribbon through the valleys below, and the vast forest canopy—just beginning to green with spring—looked like an endless sea of treetops. The morning light cast a golden hue over everything, making the view feel both peaceful and powerful. It was one of those rare, still moments in nature where you can’t help but pause, take a deep breath, and soak in the beauty around you. Standing there, high above the world, it felt like time slowed down—a perfect reward for the grueling climb.

The Descent
Retrace your steps from Mary’s Rock back to the Hazel Mountain lot. Just below the parking area, turn left onto the blue-blazed Buck Hollow Trail. This trail winds down the valley, crossing the stream multiple times before intersecting with Buck Ridge Trail and leading you back to the starting point.

Final Thoughts
This loop is more difficult than Old Rag, in our opinion. The stair section at the beginning is brutal, especially on a hot, sunny day, and there were plenty of bugs—so bug spray is a must. Despite the challenges, the views, varied terrain, and peaceful stream crossings made it a highly rewarding hike. If you’re up for a workout and want a less-crowded alternative to Shenandoah’s more famous trails, this one is a gem.

Trail Stats
From Mathews Campground
Length: 9.1 miles
Elevation Gain: 2,234 ft
Estimated Time: 4 hr 57 min

From Bentonville, VA (Thompson Hollow Trailhead)
Length: 8.1 miles (closer to 10 miles including parking walk)
Elevation Gain: 2,004 ft
Estimated Time: 4 hr 26 min

Route and Experience
We hiked counterclockwise starting from the Thompson Hollow Trail parking area. The trail begins along Thompson Hollow Trail, then merges with Overall Run Trail, following a peaceful stream. The path climbs uphill via the Overall-Beecher Connector Trail and continues along Beecher Ridge Trail, offering a more rugged, forested section.

Eventually, we joined the Tuscarora-Overall Run Trail, where the best views of the hike appear. A series of beautiful waterfalls and a breathtaking overlook make this section a true highlight.

Parking Details
There is legal parking available near the trailhead, but it is very limited. We found only a single car parked when we arrived early. However, it’s important not to park on the asphalt near the trail entrance—vehicles there are at risk of being towed. If the designated lot is full, you’ll have to park about a mile down the road before the “No Parking” signs begin. That additional mile each way effectively turns the loop into a 10-mile hike.

Trail Conditions and Tips
The trail conditions during our visit were rugged due to recent storms:

Muddy sections, especially in low-lying areas
5–6 stream crossings—most involved stepping into water
Fallen trees that required climbing over or navigating around
A variety of terrain: riverside paths, dense forests, narrow switchbacks, and open clearings

Pro Tips for Future Hikers
Start early to secure one of the few legal parking spots
Hike counterclockwise—the best views and waterfall are on the eastern slope
Don’t take your break at the top—the overlook is further down the descent
Bring bug spray, especially in warmer months
Wear waterproof footwear for stream crossings

Final Thoughts
This hike is challenging but rewarding, offering everything from scenic waterfalls and wildlife sightings to a wide range of terrain. The elevation changes and tricky trail conditions can be tough, but the views more than make up for the effort. If you’re looking for a memorable day hike in Shenandoah, the Overall Run Loop from Bentonville is well worth it.

If you’re looking for a moderately strenuous loop hike in the Shenandoah region with a good mix of water crossings, solitude, and steep climbs, the Hazel River & Sam’s Ridge Loop is an excellent pick. We headed out early and took the trail counterclockwise, which is highly recommended for a smoother flow through the loop.

Our Experience
The trail begins along Woodward Road (Route 600), where you’ll need to park along the roadside since there’s no designated trailhead parking—just be careful to avoid areas marked “No Parking.”

The hike starts by ascending gently along the Hazel River, which flows alongside you for much of the first portion of the trail. The sound of cascading water accompanies you as you make your way up, and the Hazel River crossings quickly become one of the most memorable parts of the hike.

There are 4–5 river crossings, most of which are manageable thanks to large, stable rocks. However, a couple of them were tricky due to the high water level. I had to walk through the water at one crossing, and at another, I carefully shimmed across a slick log—a moment that added a real sense of adventure to the hike. Trekking poles came in very handy here, especially for balance on slippery surfaces.

Once past the summit, the trail descends rapidly down Sam’s Ridge Trail, which is very steep and rugged in places. This section, along with the short but intense climb up Hot Short Trail, will test your legs and knees on the descent.

While the yellow-blazed sections of the trail could definitely use better maintenance and clearer markings, the overall loop is still navigable for experienced hikers. You’ll encounter some solitude if you go early, despite this being a relatively popular route for camping, backpacking, and day hiking.

Scenic Highlights
Hazel River cascades provide a soothing soundtrack and beautiful scenery for the first part of the loop.
Occasional clearings offer peek-a-boo views of the ridgelines.
The natural obstacles (logs, river crossings, and steep switchbacks) make this a great trail for those looking for a challenge without committing to a full-day trek.

Final Thoughts
This 6.1-mile loop isn’t the longest or highest-elevation hike in the area, but it offers just enough of a challenge to feel earned, especially with the multiple river crossings and steep downhill finish. Be sure to check recent weather conditions before heading out—heavy rain makes the river crossings significantly more difficult. Bring trekking poles, wear water-resistant footwear, and start early to enjoy some peaceful solitude before others hit the trail.

This hike combines natural beauty, a bit of rugged adventure, and just the right level of intensity to leave you feeling satisfied—and maybe even a little sore in the best way possible.