Distance: 0.2 miles (one way).
Difficulty Level: moderately difficult ◆
Time: 30 minutes.
Elevation Change: 200 ft.
Key Features: rocky, rock scramble, scenic views, geology.
Blaze Color: yellow.
Access: Start from Blackrock Park.
Google Maps directions to Blackrock Park parking lot.
The Blackrock Plunge Trail at Blackrock Park, one of the shortest trails on the mountain, has this sign at its trailhead saying “Warning!” This is not to say it isn’t great fun for kids and casual hikers. It’s a steep, rocky, climb, but just take your time. The views are worth the work.
The Blackrock Plunge is an excellent introduction to the Wintergreen’s beauty. The Plunge trail provides an incredible overlooks at the top and bottom.
The trail is well-maintained, with stairs for some parts as well as fun rock scrambles. There are picnic tables at Blackrock Park. The Plunge is an access trail to Wintergreen’s Blackrock Trail and Brimstone Trail.
The rock formations here (called pedlar gneiss) were created millions of years ago. For more details on the pedlar formation and geology of the Blue Ridge mountains, click here.
Use extra caution in winter. Not recommended during wet conditions because of potentially slippery rocks.
Trail Elevation via AllTrails.com.
