Trailhead Hike: Laurel Prong/ Camp Rapidan, SNP, VA

PATC Map 10 / ***NO BUS, MEET AT TRAILHEAD******

$5. Long: 10½ mi., 2,200 ft. ascent. Moderate hike: 8 mi., 1,700 ft. ascent.

Today we will explore the Camp Rapidan Wildlife Management Area, with its lovely narrow, rocky streams and forests that are more mature than in most other areas of Shenandoah National Park. This area was a favorite retreat of President Herbert Hoover, and the hike will go past the cabin that he and his wife used for escaping the rigors of summers in Washington. All hikers will start from Milam Gap to take the Laurel Prong and Fork Mountain trails to the cabin. They will then begin to ascend via the Mill Prong Trail. Moderate hikers will continue along the hiker-only trail to return directly to Milam Gap, while long hikers will ascend along the horse trail and the fire road to cross Skyline Drive, after which they will take the Appalachian Trail to Milam Gap.

Plan to be at the trailhead by 10:00 AM. The trailhead is the Milam Gap parking area, just north of the 53-mile marker on Skyline Drive. Please use the comments below to work out carpooling should you wish to do so. (Carpoolers should offer to contribute towards gas.)

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RESERVATIONS
Capital Hiking Club is a non-profit group, and the public is invited on all trips. Reservations are accepted as late as Friday, but reserving before Wednesday night helps ensure your spot and prevent cancellation of the hike due to low sign-ups. RSVP through Meetup and pay through PayPal. Please be sure your RSVP gives your full name and phone number and where you'll be boarding the bus. We don't want to leave you behind!

FIRST-TIME HIKERS
If you're a first-time hiker with us, please notify the leaders in advance so they can make sure you have the info you need. Hikers must be able to keep at least a 2 mph pace.

LIABILITY
By RSVP'ing for a CHC hike, you acknowledge and accept that hikers are responsible for their own safety and must assume risks and liability for all outings. CHC leaders, officers, and representatives shall not be liable for any injuries, loss or damage to persons or property, direct or consequential, arising out of any trips or club activities. Participants will be asked to sign a waiver the day of the hike.

CANCELLATION POLICY
To cancel and receive a full refund less a $5 processing fee, you must change your RSVP to "No" on Meetup before 12PM the Thursday before the hike. If you change your RSVP after 12PM the Thursday before the hike, no refunds will be issued.

MORE DETAILS -- SEE THE FAQS ON OUR WEBSITE