Early Fall Hike through Sky Meadows Loop

SIGN-UP INSTRUCTIONS:
You must sign up at https://p.ridj-it.com/app/trip-detail?id=112955 in order to join as a rider, driver, or non-carpooler. You will need to have a Ridj-it account, NOT a Meetup account, in order to sign up. You'll be prompted to create a Ridj-it account if you do not have one. Only having a RSPV on Meetup does not get you in the event. Any questions you have about the trip can be posted at the link above.

DETAILS:
This is an easy to moderate, beginner-friendly hike, that traverses the Appalachian Trail (AT) and is about an hour west of DC. There are some nice views scattered throughout the hike, but its mostly a nice stroll through nature (and meadows!). We should also be able to get a glimpse of some Fall colors!

There is a $10 fee per vehicle. This fee is not included as part of the carpool payment, so please be prepared to contribute.

The hike is a 7.1 miles loop with close to 1,400 ft elevation gain.
The trail map: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/virginia/sky-meadows-loop

I enjoy some post-hike food and beer, so we will find some place on the way back to indulge. For now, I'm thinking about heading to Lost Barrel Brewing in Middleburg, VA (https://g.co/kgs/GAoKnnT; 36138 Little River Tpke, Middleburg, VA 20117).

Please be advised that you are responsible for your own safety and preparedness. I'm not a professional guide, just a fellow enthusiast like you, so please make sure you are prepared physically and mentally, that you have the proper gear for the hike, and that you have done the appropriate research necessary to make the informed decision of partaking in this hike.

What to bring:
- Hiking boots
- Water-resistant or waterproof pants (recommended).
-Jacket or hoodie for the morning of if it gets chilly in the shaded areas
- 2.0 liters of water
- electrolytes (Gatorade/electrolyte powder)
- Snacks and lunch.
- Positive attitude

Additional expectations

1. I am not a guide and this is not a service - I expect you to be fully prepared with the gear listed below and the mindset that you could get yourself out of trouble if needed.
2. We stick together - this is a group event, so if you feel that you are not flexible in working as a team, this will not be a good hike for you.
3. You can be turned away from carpool or the trailhead if you look/seem unprepared.
4. Showing up without registering on Ridj-it with a profile and then actually signing up for the trip is a safety hazard and will get you banned. Do not message to join in any alternative manner.