Betsy Bell Wilderness Park offers a magnificent view of the Shenandoah Valley from its observation platform (elev. 1,959 feet), which looks due east toward Waynesboro and the Blue Ridge Mountains. The summit has minimal picnic facilities, in addition to the observation platform, and may be reached by turning onto Betsy Bell Road from Greenville Avenue (Route 11). Where the pavement ends and turns into a gravel surface, you may turn left onto a gravel access road that winds up the western face of the mountain to the top.
Drivers are advised that, while maintained at least annually, the road is narrow, often steep and loose-packed. Please exercise caution. The gravel road continues down the eastern face of the mountain, returning to the entrance, but this section is not maintained and is not passable to motor vehicles. Mountain bikers may wish to test their endurance by tackling the entire length of the access road. It offers a difficult climb, a breathtaking view, and an exciting downhill run. Hikers will find a welcome natural area to explore and may catch a glimpse of the deer herd which haunts the slopes.
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Last Updated: 08/08/2014
