The weather looks perfect for hiking and camping out, so that is what I will be doing. I'll lead two days of hiking in SNP's Northern District. In the middle of the week, campsites are readily available. However, people are welcome to just come for a day hike if they are not into camping. The first hike, on Wednesday, is the Rocky Branch Trail, and has a trailhead that is very close to Thornton Gap (Sperryville), so it is easily accessible for a day hike and return to RVA for those who do not want to camp. This hike is an out and back of 6.6 miles with an elevation gain and loss of about 1,430 feet.
We can do a lunch Wednesday at the Elkwallow Wayside - burgers and shakes anyone? - or just bring a trail lunch. For those camping out who want more hiking after Rocky Branch, there are a number of very nice trails from the Matthew's Arm Campground. I'll probably reserve a site, and it will have room for a second small tent. Sites cost $30 ($15 if you have the Senior Pass, as I do). Last weekend, firewood was available at the Wayside.
The Thursday hike will be planned once I know how many are going - I have a hike in mind that would require a shuttle, and a few more possibilities if people don't want to do that. But it will be in the 7-8 mile range.
Contact Art Ritter at o2behiking@yahoo.com if you want to come. Deadline for reply is Tuesday.
The ODATC Mission
The construction and maintenance of foot trails for hikers, including the Appalachian Trail between Reids Gap and Rockfish Gap.
The provision of excursions on such trails or other areas.
Offering educational activities related to the need for preserving the great outdoors.
Old Dominion Appalachian Trail Club (c). P.O. Box 25283 Richmond, VA 23260-5283 Contact us
