Paine Run Trail

Dogs Unknown

Features River/Creek · Wildflowers · Wildlife

The trailhead for Paine Run Trail is located on the west side of Skyline Drive. The Paine Run Trail heads south and west to the park boundary, where it joins SRs 614 and 661.

About a mile down the Paine Run Trail is Blackrock Springs, which was a fashionable resort with a hotel, cabins, recreation hall, and bowling alley. The resort reached the height of its popularity in the 1840s and 1850s. It burned down early in the last century. The waters of Blackrock Springs were said to be good for whatever ails you. According to advertisements, they contained iron, soda, lime, magnesia, and carbonic acid gas. When Mme. Curie discovered radium, that too was added to the list of ingredients. There were seven springs of different colors and different healing properties, including one for arthritis, one for rheumatism, one for gout, and one for aiding the growth of hair. If you'd like to see where the hotel once stood or if you're suffering from a shortage of hair or other ailments, you should definitely take the time to explore Blackrock Springs.

Continuing your hike on the Pain Run Trail will have you paralleling Paine Run as you descend gradually and steadily toward the edge of the park. Shortly before the trail ends you'll come across the junction with the Trayfoot Mountain Trail which branches off to the north.

Thanks to Larry W. Brown, for sharing this trail description. If you’re interested in learning more details about great hikes, weather, camping / lodging, wildlife, and scenic drives, check out the comprehensive Guide to Shenandoah National Park.