Hike Bear Church Rock via the Graves Mill Trail

Starting at the Graves Mill Parking area, head up the yellow blazed trail that is marked by a big cement marker. The trail will follow closely beside the gorgeous Rapidan River. Hike for half a mile until you come to the intersection of the Staunton River Trail. Turn left (do not cross the river) and follow the trail for a little over two and a half miles to the intersection of the Jones Mountain Trail. Turn left on this trail and hike up a steep incline for half a mile to the next trail junction. Here, stay left on the Jones Mountain Trail. Keep hiking and you'll come to an amazing thicket of old mountain laurel that creates a canopy over your heads. 

After this you will come to an intersection where a side trail heads towards the Jones Mountain Cabin. This trail is a little over half a mile out and back. I did not do this trail but I've heard it's a cool area to see. 

If you choose to forgo the mountain cabin trail, keep hiking straight for another half a mile to the Bear Church Rock overlook. From this point, retrace your steps back down the mountain.

Another route to Bear Church Rock is via Bootens Gap. 

* Note: the Rapidan River is also one of the best rivers to catch native Brook Trout. If you fly fish be sure to bring your fly rod for the first half of the hike that winds beside the Rapidan River.