Turns out I had stumbled upon Seneca Rocks. Clearly, fate had led me here and I was compelled to check it out. The visitor center was top notch; on par with a National Park visitor center. The helpful rangers got me on their wifi and I used a map to figure out my next stretch of road. And I learned there was a lovely little trail to follow around the rock formation.

So of course, I went for a walk.

The trail crosses the North Fork South Branch Potomac River. Phew. Say that a few times fast. The flow was low, but it was pretty. In the woods, it was the typical and lovely east coast deciduous forest. Small trees, a green canopy, and open ground. Being afflicted by West Side Syndrome, I saw trails everywhere. However, the actual trail was well marked and frequently trod so easy to follow. Interpretive signs explained how the rocks were formed and why they were still there when all around there were none.

As is often the case, getting to the top and the viewpoint didn't really let you see much. I certainly couldn't see the rocks themselves. I was able to see a different trail heading down the back side of the rocks and decided I had time to explore that even if it meant I had to come back up and down the front side.

Luckily, it went. But steeply. It's a climber's trail so there are no niceties like switchbacks or even the concept of a grade. It was pretty much straight down. (Later, I'd see a sign recommending helmets for this section due to rock fall. Oops.) I didn't mess with the actual climbing area because that's how people get in trouble. I did complete the loop and rejoined the well-maintained trail near the sign that read, "Watershed Discovery Loop: Eat Bugs!" I did not.

Back at the car, I changed into what would turn out to be my fourth shirt of the day (this one just cotton, ew) and hopped back on the road. If you happen to be anywhere near Seneca Rocks, definitely plan to stop.

📍On the lands of the Massawomeck people.