The Awesome Hike In Virginia That Will Take You Straight To An Abandoned Mill
By Beth|Published September 07, 2017
×
Beth
Author
A lifelong Virginia resident, Beth loves exploring different parts of the world and currently resides in Charlottesville. She holds a degree in English Literature and one of her short stories has been featured in the Shenandoah Review. Other interests include hiking, songwriting, and spending time in the mountains.
It’s hard to deny the lure of abandoned buildings in sites, especially when so many of them exist in Virginia. Whether they tell tales of war, industrialism, or altogether abandoned towns, there’s something so compelling about the visual evidence of what once was. One such abandoned place just happens to be situated along a gorgeous hiking trail. If you embark on the Bull Run Meadow Loop, you’ll enjoy gorgeous views in addition to the abandoned grist mill built in 1794. If you’re a fan of Virginia’s history, trails, or both, this trail is a must!
Bull Run Mountain Loop is located in Northern Virginia near Broad Run. The trail is ranked as moderate and measures just over 4 miles in length. Beautiful in any season, the hike is especially breathtaking during fall.
You might considering going clockwise and tackling the uphill portion of the hike first. Continuing along this route, you'll pass over a few scenic streams once you've reached the ridgeline.
There's also a spectacular overlook at the height of the loop which offers hikers the perfect opportunity for some incredible photographs or a stopping point for a picnic lunch.
While the natural scenery is certainly impressive, the most distinguishing feature of Bull Run Mountain Trail is the abandoned mill. The structure was built in 1742 by a father and son named Jonathan and Nathaniel Chapman. The site was enlarged and within twenty years became one of the most prominent gristmills in the Shenandoah Valley, supplying corn and wheat for nearly a century.
As you approach Chapman's Mill -- also known as Beverly Mill --you'll notice the mechanisms and tools still present today. The structure is five-stories high and was built using rubble stone.
Another notable landmark on the trail loop is a former Civil War rail house. It's truly incredible to consider the amount of history which passed in this relatively small area of land.
Have you taken this trail to Chapman’s Mill before? If so, we’d love to hear about your experiences! For additional information, be sure to visit the Bull Run Mountains Conservancy Website.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
