Elizabeth Furnace Area

Elizabeth Furnace Area lies in Virginia near Winchester, Front Royal. Use these driving notes as a starting point and confirm road conditions before you go. Bring water, sunscreen, and gear for a primitive swim day. Weekends and holidays can draw more visitors. Check local updates on access and water levels before you leave home.

1. Location

2. Elizabeth Furnace Area, near Winchester and Front Royal, Virginia. Driving Directions

   Starting Point:

3. Take Interstate 66 (I-66) to Exit 6 for Route 340 (RT 340), located just north of Front Royal, Virginia. Route 340 South

   After exiting, follow RT 340 south. At the first traffic light, turn right onto Route 55 West (RT 55). Route 55 West: Continue on RT 55 West for about 7 miles until you reach Route 678 (RT 678). Route 678 South: Turn left onto RT 678 South. Set your odometer here to track distances. You will soon enter the George Washington National Forest and begin driving alongside Passage Creek. : As you drive south on RT 678, you will find several . These are accessible directly from the road and are scattered along the creek.

4. Optional Hike to Buzzard Rock

5. For those interested in a scenic hike before swimming, follow these steps

6. Turn onto Route 619: About 1.2 miles south of RT 55 on RT 678, turn left onto Route 619 at the sign for the fish hatchery.

7. Parking for Buzzard Rock Trailhead

   Continue on RT 619 until you reach a gravel parking area on the right . Look for the sign marked "Massanutten Trail." Hiking Directions: Begin your hike on the Massanutten Trail, which is marked with white blazes. Follow the trail along a brook, climbing gradually for about 1.75 miles until you reach a stunning promontory overlooking the north end of Fort Valley and the fish hatchery. At this point, take a left at the tight switchback and climb a short, steep, rocky section to reach the top of Buzzard Rock. The summit features a fragrant pine forest, a rocky floor, and breathtaking views of the steep drop hundreds of feet down to Passage Creek. Return to Parking: Note that there is no shortcut down to the . You must return the way you came. The hike is about 3.5 miles round trip and takes about 2 hours . Coordinates for Buzzard Rock: Latitude: 38.9419 Longitude: -78.3020 Use this link for navigation: Google Maps

8. Additional Notes

9. Parking

   Parking is available at the gravel lot near the Massanutten Trailhead for those hiking to Buzzard Rock. For creek access, roadside parking is available along RT 678, but please ensure your vehicle is parked safely and does not block traffic. Trail Conditions: The hike to Buzzard Rock is moderately challenging, with some steep and rocky sections. Wear sturdy footwear and bring water. : Be cautious when . Check water conditions and avoid . Have a safe visit to the Elizabeth Furnace Area!