Shenandoah National Park

Knob Mountain - Jeremys Run

moderate_strenuous Solitude SeekersCreek LoversLong Day Hikers
0 mi Distance
7-8 hours Estimated Time
Out & Back Trail Type

What to Expect

This is a proper day in the woods — nearly eight hours of Shenandoah wilderness that earns every bit of its 'moderately strenuous' rating. You'll start from Elkwallow Wayside at mile 24 on Skyline Drive and drop down into one of the park's quieter valleys, where Jeremys Run carves through a hemlock-shaded hollow that feels more like Appalachian backcountry than a national park an hour from D.C. The circuit takes you along Knob Mountain's spine before descending to the creek, which you'll follow upstream through a series of small cascades and swimming holes that make the rock-hopping worth every twisted ankle risk. The trail surface alternates between well-graded fire road and rocky, root-laced singletrack that demands your full attention. This one rewards hikers who prefer a full-day immersion over a quick summit-and-selfie — come for the solitude and the sound of running water, not for a viewpoint.
Solitude SeekersCreek LoversLong Day HikersWilderness ImmersionTrail Runners

Safety Advisory

Multiple unbridged stream crossings along Jeremys Run can become dangerous after heavy rain or spring snowmelt — check recent precipitation before committing to the loop, and be prepared to turn back if water levels are above knee-height.

This is designated wilderness with limited blazing in sections — carry a detailed trail map rather than relying solely on your phone, as cell service is nonexistent in the valley bottom.

Trail Details

Difficulty moderate_strenuous
Estimated Time 7-8 hours
Trail Type Out & Back
Pets Dogs allowed (leash required)
Season Year-round
Trailhead Knob Mountain - Jeremys Run

Pro Tips

Trail Tip

Start at Elkwallow Wayside so you can grab a snack or blackberry milkshake when you finish — the wayside is open spring through fall and makes a far better post-hike reward than a warm Clif Bar from your pack.

Trail Tip

Hike the loop clockwise (Knob Mountain Trail first, Jeremys Run on the return) so your tired legs get the gentler, creek-side descent rather than grinding uphill on loose rock in the afternoon heat.

Trail Tip

Jeremys Run has multiple stream crossings that can be tricky after rain — pack trekking poles and wear boots with solid ankle support. After a dry spell, the crossings are ankle-deep at worst, but spring runoff turns them into genuine obstacles.

Photos

Getting There

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