Jeremy's Run is a nice, long hike in the Shenandoah National Park. It's about two hours from Northern Virginia, making it a doable day hike. Read on to find out more.
Hike Options
There are a couple of hiking options for Jeremy’s Run. All Trails describes a 12.7 mile loop. It hikes the ridge to the right of the run, if you are heading in. Hiking Upward describes a 14.7 mile loop. This loop uses the Appalacian Trail as part of the hike. At almost 15 miles, it’s a long day hike. This is the version that I’ve hiked twice within the last couple of years. This year, we hiked it mid-December. Last year, we hiked it in September. The leaves were turning, and the foliage was spectacular. Both times offered almost complete tranquility. Recently, there was not one other car in the parking lot.
Jeremy's Run in Shenandoah National Park
Hiking Along Jeremy's Run
Jeremy’s Run is a lovely creek. The trail starts by descending from the parking lot to Jeremy’s Run. It goes along the run for about six miles or so, crossing it several times. The creek crossings are completely doable in the fall and winter. They could be a little more tough in the spring. The trail is rocky and descends almost the entire way.
Hiking a Ridge in Shenandoah National Park
About six or so miles in, the trail turns to the left and continues for quite some time to reach the ridge. The remainder of the trail is mostly uphill, however it is relatively smooth. It finally rejoins the Appalacian Trail, then heads on to the parking lot. It’s a long way from the run to the parking lot. I think hiking it in the other direction is better. That way, the end is along the run. That is just personal preference.
Hikers Beware
Although I love this hike, I will not do it again. Both times the ticks were just horrible. In the fall of 2020, it was little nymphs. Hundreds of them. This winter, the ticks were bigger. As a result, they were easier to find, however the dog got covered with them. I thought that by December they would be gone, but that was not the case. Even with numerous precautions, it is just not worth it.
