| Big Schloss | |
|---|---|
A hiker standing on Big Schloss, with its rocky outcropping displayed |
|
| Elevation | 2,964 ft (903 m) |
| Location | |
| Location | Shenandoah County, Virginia / Hardy County, West Virginia, USA |
| Range | Ridge and Valley Appalachians |
| Topo map | USGS Wardensville, Wolf Gap, Woodstock |
| Climbing | |
| Easiest route | Hike |
Big Schloss is a peak in the Great North Mountain range of the Ridge and Valley Appalachians, with an elevation of 2,964 feet (903 m).[1] The peak is located in George Washington National Forest on the border of Virginia and West Virginia, though according to Topozone, the actual summit is in Virginia.[1] The trail is part of the Lee Ranger District. It features a rocky outcropping of white sandstone with expansive views into Trout Run Valley in West Virginia and Little Schloss Mountain in Virginia.[1][2]
German settlers gave Big Schloss its name. Schloss means castle in German, and it is reference to the rocky outcrop.[1][2] German was the common language in the area for several years.[2]
A number of hiking trails lead to Big Schloss. Hikers may ascend from Wolf Gap via the Mill Mountain trail, or a circuit hike coming from FDR Rt. 92.[2] The Potomac Appalachian Trail Club maintains the trails leading up to Big Schloss. A bridge provides access to the Big Schloss rock outcropping. In the Fall of 2010, the bridge was replaced with new stairs, 20' of new handrails, and two new concrete abutments.[3]
A race named The Big Schloss has been held in the fall annually since 2002. This approximately 55 km (34mile) long-distance trail running event includes traveling to the peak of Big Schloss.[4]