Nicholson and Hazel Wilderness Circuit

This is a hard, roughly 25.2-mile backpacking loop from Meadow Spring, through Nicholson Hollow, Hot Short, Pine Hill Gap, Broad Hollow, Catlett, Hazel River and White Rocks, then back along Hazel Mountain. Plan four days and three nights. It is one version of a flexible wilderness trip: the listed options range from 18.3 to 27 miles, depending on route and camps. This line follows the longer Broad Hollow branch and the Catlett-to-White-Rocks choice. It is not a single signed trail, and two junction links between named trails are not clear in mapped trail lines. Carry a current detailed Central District map and confirm those links as you go.

Start by crossing Skyline Drive and climbing Meadow Spring Trail to the Appalachian Trail. Follow the AT south to Nicholson Hollow, then drop into the Hughes River valley. The route passes Corbin Cabin and several river crossings; the water, cascades and pools are the best reason to take this long loop. The valley also preserves traces of earlier settlement around Corbin Cabin.

From Nicholson Hollow, the loop turns onto Hot Short, then takes the longer Pine Hill Gap and Broad Hollow option. A short gravel-road connector and Sam's Ridge link Broad Hollow with Hazel Mountain and Catlett. Expect repeated climbs, wooded trail junctions and no services along the loop. Other route choices can shorten the trip, but they change which segments and distance are shown here.

Catlett Mountain and Catlett Spur lead back to Hazel Mountain, then the route follows Hazel River toward White Rocks. White Rocks offers a break in the forest for valley views. The Cave/Falls spur nearby is a worthwhile optional detour for cascades and small pools; it is not included in the 25.2-mile mapped line. Continue along White Rocks to Hazel Mountain for the final climb to Meadow Spring.

The Hughes and Hazel rivers cross the route several times and can rise to knee or waist depth in spring or after heavy rain. High water can make this loop unsafe; check conditions before you commit. Overnight camping requires a Shenandoah backcountry permit, and campsite plans should match that permit. Dogs may use these trails on a physical leash no longer than six feet.