Neighbor Mountain and Jeremys Run Loop

Neighbor Mountain and Jeremys Run is a 14.0-mile loop from Elkwallow Picnic Area. Follow the Appalachian Trail south, cross the wooded ridge on Neighbor Mountain Trail, descend to Jeremys Run, then follow the stream valley upstream and return north on the AT. It is a backcountry circuit with a few open ridge views, a long forested descent and a rocky creek corridor, rather than a summit walk. Allow about 10 hours for the day hike, including breaks and the repeated crossings. The published backpacking itinerary spreads the same loop across two nights. If you hike it in one day, start early and leave daylight for the stream section.

From the picnic area, a short connector leads down to the AT. At the first junction with Jeremys Run, stay left on the AT; the blue-blazed stream trail is the return leg later. Continue south past the Thornton River junction to Neighbor Mountain Trail, a little over four miles from the start. The first part of the ridge walk winds through forest. Neighbor Mountain's summit is marked by a cement post, but the wooded summit itself has no view, so this is not a hike to choose for a summit panorama. The better openings come farther along, around miles six to seven, with views toward Massanutten Ridge and Three Sisters. Pause where the ridge opens and frame the layered hills with the nearer woods in the foreground. After that stretch, Neighbor Mountain Trail descends steadily on switchbacks to Jeremys Run.

Turn upstream on Jeremys Run Trail and follow the valley north toward the AT. The stream portion includes 14 crossings over rocky footing, so this is where progress can slow. During spring runoff or after heavy rain, the water may rise to knee or waist height. Check conditions before committing to the crossing section; do not count on being able to keep your feet dry or move at a steady hiking pace. Once you regain the AT, follow it back toward Elkwallow and take the short connector to the picnic area.

Park at Elkwallow Picnic Area off Skyline Drive at milepost 24. The route begins on the short spur from the picnic area to the AT. Overnight backpackers need a backcountry camping permit and should plan their campsites and water before setting out; the ridge itinerary includes a dry-camping stretch. Dogs may accompany hikers on this route under the park's ordinary trail rule, on a physical leash no longer than six feet. The long distance, elevation changes and stream crossings make this a poor choice for a casual short walk, but the loop links three distinct trail settings without requiring a shuttle.