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!
Take a look:
Peter Meyer/AllTrails 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.
Jason Kuvakas/AllTrails
Jason Kuvakas/AllTrails 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.
Chris Lee/AllTrails 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.
John Savoie/AllTrails 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.
indiana jones/AllTrails 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.
indiana jones/AllTrails 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.
Peter Meyer/AllTrails
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.
Jason Kuvakas/AllTrails
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.
Chris Lee/AllTrails
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.
John Savoie/AllTrails
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.
indiana jones/AllTrails
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.
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