Hone Quarry, just west of Harrisonburg Virginia, is one of the least utilized trail systems in the George Washington National Forest. Hidden Rocks is the shortest of the three main hikes in this area, along with Oak Knob and Hone Quarry Ridge. At only 2.5 miles in length the hike passes over Rocky Run with a small pool and waterfall, starts up Back Mountain to Hidden Rocks which is favorite of local climbers, and continues on the small loop trail past Hidden Cracks, and returns down the run.
Mile 0.65 - Cross Rocky Run and reach the intersection of the blue trail on the right, and the yellow blazed Hidden Run Trail stays left. Continue to follow the yellow blazed trail upstream and cross Rocky Run two more times then reach a split in the trail.
Mile 1.1 - Head back down the steps and stay right continuing on the loop section of the Hidden Rocks Trail. Shortly arrive at Hidden Cracks with another large granite wall. Halfway along the wall look for a gully that you can steeply climb and follow it on the left side. At the top there is a nice view back down the valley. Climb back down to the trail and stay right where the trail descends towards the stream.
Mile 1.4 - Cross the tributary of Rocky Run and follow the trail downstream.
Mile 1.6 - Arrive at the waterfall and pool with the trail loop intersection you passed earlier on the opposite site of the run. Continue downstream on the Hidden Rocks Trail retracing your steps the remaining 0.9 miles back to the parking area.
Mile 2.5 - Arrive back at the parking area on Hone Quarry Road.
Mid June
Video
Hidden Rocks
Hidden Rocks Hike Comments
Archived Comments
By:Rose
Rating:
Date of Hike: Wednesday, April 17, 2019
Nice hike however Rocky Run had high water and was difficult to cross. Plan on aqueous footwear if possible. There are rocks to walk across on and keep out of the water in some places but many were loose and wobbled quite a bit. After the initial crossing of Rocky Run the trail makes a sharp left and travels directly upstream of Rocky Run which had completely overrun the trail for about 20 yds,
Spotted lots of yellow violets and some bluets.
Awesome views from the top of Hidden Rocks!
By:Steffen
Rating:
Date of Hike: Saturday, August 18, 2018
The hike was beautiful and fun exactly as described, but as far as solitude I would give it one star. While camping at the overlook we were visited by a boy scout troop, four hikers, and three other campers who came to camp at the same look out. We could also hear cars from the road on the overlook. We left shortly afterwards. Overall I would say it's a wonderful day hike that seems to have been discovered, but don't go to camp. A quick picnic is a better option.
By:Steffen
Rating:
Date of Hike: Saturday, August 18, 2018
The hike was beautiful and fun exactly as described, but as far as solitude I would give it one star. While camping at the overlook we were visited by a boy scout troop, four hikers, and three other campers who came to camp at the same look out. We could also hear cars from the road on the overlook. We left shortly afterwards. Overall I would say it's a wonderful day hike that seems to have been discovered, but don't go to camp. A quick picnic is a better option.
By:Ed & Jackie
Rating:
Date of Hike: Sunday, May 21, 2017
Lovely wooded trail, almost rain forest in character along the creek. The Hidden Rocks are quite impressive, even though the view from the top is limited. There are sections of the trail that are quite steep and rocky, and the creek crossings could be tricky if the water level was up. Enough of a challenge for these 60 year-old hikers, but one we thoroughly enjoyed. Highly recommended!
By:hiker
Rating:
Date of Hike: Tuesday, September 6, 2016
A great hike! but had our license plates stolen. Was coming back to the parking lot while they were in the act. They might have broken in if we hadn't come back right then!
By:Shawn R.
Rating:
Date of Hike: Monday, August 8, 2016
I have no complaints regarding this hike. The hike, albeit fairly short, seems to include a bit of everything: a nice flowing creek, a waterfall, solid views, and incredible rocks. The cliff was astounding as you walk up and alongside of it. Don't miss the Hidden Crack (which is a little hidden) for a view which is slightly better than what you get from atop the other section of rock. The trail was easy to follow and the parking area was easy to find. Overall, the hike took about an hour and 45 minutes including some short breaks along the way. The trail is certainly rocky so if you are somewhat unsure of your step or you aren't a fan of a rocky trail, maybe this wouldn't be the best hike for you, but this is an incredible hike for how short you have to hike.
