Fall Hike, Game, & BBQ
Category: School Events
Date: September 18, 2026
Time: 8:10 AM - 7:45 PM

This is one of Chelsea's biggest traditions, which helps foster both the pillar of Adventure and also brings our families together for food, fun, and the Annual House Game Competitions!
Please submit your Fall Hike & BBQ Online Permission form by Friday September, 11th.
Hikes:
K–5th Grade: Shenandoah River State Park
Our younger students will enjoy trails through the park’s forests and along the Shenandoah River.
K–2nd: Overlook Trail (1.5 miles) 3rd–5th: Big Oak and Red Ridge Trail (2.5 miles)6th–8th Grade: Dickey Ridge to Snead Farm Loop, Shenandoah National Park
A moderate 3.7-mile circuit with approximately 580 feet of elevation gain and an estimated hiking time of 2½ hours.9th–12th Grade: Old Rag, Shenandoah National Park
A very strenuous 9.4-mile hike with approximately 2,348 feet of elevation gain and a challenging rock scramble. Additional information regarding preparation, clothing, footwear, water, and necessary supplies will be provided to high school families.
Fall Barbecue
Following the hikes, Lower School students (K–5th) will return to Chelsea Academy and must be signed out by a parent or guardian. Lower School students must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at the Family BBQ.
Middle and High School students will return to the McCarthy House for the barbecue, where families are encouraged to meet them.
The Chelsea Parents Association, in collaboration with the McCarthy family, has a wonderful BBQ picnic planned to complement the exciting school-led House Games! Please take a look at this year's Fall Hike Picnic Sign-Up, and choose 2 slots per family.
We look forward to a wonderful day of adventure, friendship, and enjoying God’s beautiful creation together!