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Post by giraut on Sept 20, 2016 7:37:07 GMT -5
Greetings.
Looking for a good itinerary for hiking in the northern region of Shenandoah National Park in late September, early-to-mid October. Two nights, three days. Two at-one-time experienced hikers getting back into it at the age of 60. Like a moderate challenge, but it’s our first trip back so not interested in routes marked “strenuous” or “challenging.” Want to see beautiful things and not meet too many people. Actually would prefer zero people, but that’s not realistic. Unfortunately, have to go on a 3-day weekend. Either a loop or point-to-point hike is fine. Probably wouldn’t get to trail head until early or mid-afternoon, so need to be able to get to a place where we can pitch our tents before it gets dark.
Thanks!
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Post by GaliWalker on Sept 20, 2016 14:54:58 GMT -5
I'm not an expert on Shenandoah, so you'll have to wait on those to chime in (e.g. rpcv ). However, have you checked out the options on the parent site ( www.midatlantichikes.com)?
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christopherrobin
Forum Elder
“People say nothing is impossible, but I do nothing every day.”
Posts: 259
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Post by christopherrobin on Sept 21, 2016 6:26:54 GMT -5
Does it have to be Shenandoah? I would think the hike GaliWalker just did would be perfect for you. Especially if the trails are dry now. Lots of options for varying your daily mileage and camp spots. And not a lot of strenuous ups and downs.
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rpcv
Forum Elder
Posts: 170
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Post by rpcv on Sept 21, 2016 16:11:23 GMT -5
Hi, Giraut, and welcome. So...Three days and two nights in the north district of Shenandoah. If you have two cars or some other way to shuttle, the easiest, most moderate hike would to do the Appalachian Trail through the park. Most other 2 night loops would require hiking down towards the valley at some point and then returning to the top of the ridge or vise versa. Without knowing how much mileage you are looking to do, here are two ideas:
1. You could start at Thornton Gap (highway 211), hike to Mathews Arm Campground. Stay there (this might be dicey for a holiday weekend because MA CG doesn't take reservations). The next day, hike Gravel Springs Hut. Then hike out to Compton Gap. Nice views at Mount Marshall and Compton Peak (a side trail).
2. Start at Meadow Springs trailhead, cross Skyline Drive hike up the side trail to the Appalachian Trail, turn right and hike towards Thornton Gap. Take the side trail to Mary's Peak (it isn't long). Return to the AT and hike to Pass Mountain Hut, crossing hwy 211. The next day, hike to Gravel Springs Hut. The third day, hike to Compton Gap. this option is harder, but you do get a great view at Mary's Peak, in addition to Mount Marshall and Compton Peak.
Whichever one you choose, you are unlikely to be alone on a holiday weekend.
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