Long Run Road Trail

Long Run Road, also known as Forest Road 72, is an off-road trail located near Harrisonburg, Virginia, offering scenic views of the Appalachian Mountains. The road is unpaved, winding, and remote, making it suitable for vehicles with high clearance. While some sources suggest that four-wheel drive is not required, caution is advised due to the road’s rough conditions.

The trail spans approximately 15.7 miles, with elevations ranging from 1,737 to 3,661 feet. It is accessible for various activities, including mountain biking, hiking, trail running, and off-roading with dirt bikes, ATVs, and 4×4 vehicles. The road is suitable for bicycles with 40c plus tires and crossover vehicles.

Long Run Road is renowned for its springtime breeding warblers, making it a popular spot for birdwatching. Bird species such as black-throated green, worm-eating, hooded, and black-and-white warblers can be observed. The area also hosts common ravens, pileated woodpeckers, scarlet tanagers, and rose-breasted grosbeaks.

To access Long Run Road from Harrisonburg, follow State Route 763 (Mount Clinton Pike) westward and turn left onto SR 613/763, which becomes Hopkins Gap Road. Approximately 2.8 miles after the intersection with Whitmore Shop Road, turn left onto Forest Road 72 (Long Run Road).

Before embarking on your trip, it’s advisable to contact the U.S. Forest Service North River Ranger District at (540) 432-0187 to check on road conditions and closures. Additionally, always carry a reliable map, as the area is remote with limited facilities.

Directions from I-81 to Long Run Road (FSR 72)

1. Take I-81 to Harrisonburg
   • Travel southbound or northbound on I-81 and exit at Exit 245 toward Harrisonburg / Route 33 East.
2. Head into the city via Route 33 East
   • Merge onto US-33 East / Route 33, entering Harrisonburg.
3. Navigate to Hopkins Gap Road
   • Within Harrisonburg, take Mt. Clinton Pike (SR 763) toward the west side of town.
   • Continue until it transitions into Hopkins Gap Road (SR 612) outside of the city limits.
   • From Harrisonburg, this involves driving a few miles on Mount Clinton Pike until you’re west of the city, where it becomes Hopkins Gap Road.
4. Turn onto Long Run Road (FSR 72)
   • On Hopkins Gap Road, look for the turnoff onto Forest Service Road 72 (Long Run Road) approximately 2.8 miles after the intersection with Whitmore Shop Road. Turn left (west) onto FSR 72.
5. Arrive at the trail
   • From that intersection, you’ll be on FSR 72 / Long Run Road, a scenic Forest Service route that spans several miles and leads into the heart of the National Forest. It’s easy to follow and well-marked.

For a visual overview of the trail, you might find this video helpful: