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Guided Hikes

Step off the pavement and into something wilder. Whether you’re chasing the thunder of a hidden waterfall, standing atop a wind-swept summit, or discovering the delicate beauty of a rare wildflower, your journey starts here. At Next Bend Adventures, we don’t just show you the trail—we help you connect with the rhythm of the wild.

Along the way, you'll master the essentials of the outdoors:

  • Navigate with Confidence: Learn basic trail-finding and map skills.

  • Trail Etiquette & LNT: Master the principles of Leave No Trace to protect the places we love.

  • Deep Roots: Uncover the rugged history and geology of the Blue Ridge.

  • Mindful Awareness: Slow down and rediscover your place in the natural world.

Itinerary

Your Half-Day Expedition (3–5 Miles)

  • 08:30 | Basecamp Meet-Up: We gather at our pre-arranged trailhead.

  • 08:35 | The Briefing: Safety check, weather report, and trail navigation overview.

  • 09:00 | Boots on the Trail: The adventure begins!

  • 12:00 | The Return: We head back to the vehicles for "Roses, Thorns & Buds"—sharing the wins, the challenges, and the inspiration for your next trek.

  • Capture the Moment: We’ll take a final group photo to commemorate the day. Don't forget to tag your journey with #mynextbend.

Where We Roam

In the Wild Heart of Virginia:

  • Shenandoah National Park

  • George Washington & Jefferson National Forests

  • Shenandoah River State Park

Choose Your Quest

What are you looking for?

Every route is hand-picked based on your interests and ability level. 

  • Breathtaking Summits: Tackle the heights of Hawksbill, Mary’s Rock, Signal Knob, or Buzzard’s Rock.

  • Cascading Waterfalls: Feel the mist at Lewis Falls, Rose River, Dark Hollow, Cave Falls, or South River Falls.

  • Botanical Wonders: Track the seasons from the early Hepatica of April to the late-summer Turk’s Cap Lilies. Check out the SNP Wildflower Calendar to see what’s in bloom.

  • Living History: Walk the ruins of the Fox Family homestead or explore the Snead Family farm and root cellar.

  • The Forager’s Path: Every hike includes the chance to identify (and sometimes sample!) seasonal wild edibles under expert guidance.

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Can't decide on just one?

Consider a Full Day Hike and combine 2 options!

How About a Full Moon Hike!

Hike to a scenic overlook at dusk and enjoy the full moon and stars as the trail comes alive after dark.

Join us for a relaxed evening hike under the glow of the full moon. We’ll meet around dusk and set out toward a scenic overlook, giving our eyes time to adjust as the moonlight slowly takes over. Along the way, we’ll let the day fade, the stars emerge, and the trail guide us forward.

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At the overlook, we’ll pause to truly take it all in—oohing and ahhing at the moon, the stars, and the quiet magic of the night.

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Want to catch the sunset too? Just let us know, and we’ll adjust the start time so you don’t miss a thing.

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Headlamps are provided and will be used only if needed. Please wear sturdy shoes, dress for the weather, and bring water to drink. We’ll take care of the snacks.

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Come experience the trail in a whole new light.

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Difficulty level: easy to moderate.

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Available Dates:

March 29, 30 and April 1:  Pink Moon
April 29, 30, and May 1: Flower Moon
May 29, 30 and 31: Blue Moon
June 27, 28 and 29: Strawberry Moon
July 27, 28 and 29: Buck Moon
August 26, 27 and 28: Sturgeon Moon
September 24, 25 and 26: Corn Harvest Moon
October 24, 25 and 26: Hunter's Moon
 

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Ready?

Your next bend adventure starts Here with your Guided Half-Day Hike!

What's around your next bend?

Can't choose among all the options for a Half-Day Hike? Consider a Full Day Hike and combine two!

Your path to a Full Moon Hike is Here!

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