Knob Mountain-Jeremys Run Lariat Hike (Rescheduled)

(Rescheduled from March 10 because of excessive snows and possible flooding in the Blue Ridge.) This will be a very strenuous 13.1-mile lariat (semi-circuit) hike, with about 2500 feet of elevation gain, through one of the most picturesque sections of Shenandoah National Park. Beginning from the Elkwallow picnic area on Skyline Drive in the northern section of SNP, we will first proceed to the ridge of Knob Mountain, where we'll stroll along the crest for a few miles. Next, we will drop rapidly down Knob Mountain with some outstanding views to Jeremys Run, where we may lunch by a relaxing pool. Our gradual uphill back to Skyline Drive along the Jeremys Run Trail trail will be a serene and scenic ascent, featuring not only more than a dozen stream crossings, but also numerous pools, cascades, rock outcrops and glens. Bring a bag lunch, water, and a change of shoes/socks. Trip costs should be around $16, covering Park admission, transportation and the trip fee. Meet at the East Falls Church Metro Kiss and Ride Lot by 8:30 am; note the early meeting time. We will plan to leave as close to 8:30 am as possible.