#1 - Bear Rocks/Lions Head Loop
Dolly Sods WildernessLength: 19.6 mi • Est. 9 h 18 m
It's a great hike with a huge variety of trails and terrain within the 20 miles. When you start of on Bear Rocks Trail it will wide open fields where you can see the mountains and beautiful trees and plains around you at 4,000+ feet. It stays open/no shade for 4-6 miles. Generally the ascents/descents are not difficulty as they are mixed in and not very long, but the terrain takes a little skill and focus. There are many rocks to navigate and it can be quite muddy, would not advise going for this hike in rainy weather. If you decide to make your own modifications rangers have said to avoid Dobbin Grade Trail (526, especially the eastern part, which is why this short cut back to the parking lot isn't taken) and Beaver View Trail (523). Also if you modify and go farther south and it has rained a lot, some of the rivers farther south may be difficult dangers to ford.
***LIONS HEAD- NOT CLEARLY MARKED. If you look closely you will see a trail you can take. Heading south a little after the water fall on your right you will see a Cairn on your left. If you pass this area, you will get to a rocky path and you can generally make your own path up the rock scramble to Lions Head for the amazing view. It's about .1 mile scramble, but allow time for getting lost and finding your way.
***Trails do not have blazes, cairns are very limited and inconsistent. Most if not all named/numbered trail intersections are clearly marked with a sign.
Campsites are dispersed and not too difficult to find in most areas. Great spot right on the river at the intersection of 513/558 and 513/554. You can find water pretty much anywhere water/river/stream is marked.
Note: it's about 4 miles on a gravel road with semi steep terrain to get up to Bear Rocks. Bear Rocks isn't actually on this trail, but you can go see them as they are adjacent right to the parking area.
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