Backpack - VA Triple Crown - 3-Day Backpack - 37 Miles

(Event is crossposted from NOVA Trailblazers)

## Details

Let's hike my favorite backpacking loop in Virginia - The Virginia Triple Crown! (Picture is from McAfee's Knob)

IMPORTANT - READ
This trip is challenging and this trip is NOT recommended for inexperienced hikers. First time backpackers will not be allowed to join this one, sorry.

## Trail Facts

• Difficulty Level: Very Strenuous
• Length: 37 Miles
• Duration: 3 Days
• Elevation Gain: 8,015 Feet
• Bear Canisters: Not Required
• Permits: Not Required
• Parking: Dragon's Tooth Trailhead Parking Lot
• Coordinates: 37.378936, -80.156161
• AllTrails Map: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/virginia/virginias-triple-crown-loop?u=i&sh=rak641

Throughout this backpacking adventure you will get a chance to conquer three of the regions most spectacular overlooks: McAfee Knob, one of the most photographed spots along the AT; Tinker Cliffs, which offers 180-degree views of mountain ranges and amazing sunsets; and Dragon’s Tooth, a rock-scrambling climb to a unique jagged peak.

This route is known to be challenging and this trip is NOT recommended for inexperienced hikers. First time backpackers will not be allowed to join this one, sorry. Please ensure you are able to manage 10-15 miles per day. Water can be scarce on this hike. I recommend bringing more than you might normally bring - up to 4 liters.

Trail Details:
On Saturday morning, we will meet at the trailhead at 9am. If you're driving from the DC area, I'd suggest staying in Roanoke the night before, as parking at the trailhead is limited (it's best to get there early).

Day 1 (12.8 miles)
On the first day, we will leave the parking lot and walk along well-defined trails that wind through streams and forest. After about 1.5 miles, we will start a steep ascent up to the first of the three "crowns," known as Dragon's Tooth. The final mile to the Tooth will require some bouldering/scrambling, with the use of iron bars but the panoramic view at the top is well worth it. Afterwards, we descend and turn to hike along the AT until we reach Catawba Campsite at about 13 miles total. We will camp here for the night and refill water.

Day 2 (11.8 miles)
Day 2 will see two of the scenic overlooks - McAfee’s Knob and Tinker Cliffs. We will reach McAfee’s Knob first thing on day 2 - It’s an amazing overhung cliff with a 270-degree panorama of the Catawba valley and is the most photographed spot on the Appalachian Trail. After another few miles, we will reach Tinker Cliffs, which offer another amazing view of the idyllic Catawba valley. After a brief lunch we will continue down a steep decline and turn off the AT on to the Andy Lane trail and refill water. After several more miles we will camp near the top of North Mountain.

Day 3 (10.5 miles)
This day should be an easy final day - it consists of a mostly flat-then-downward hike back to the parking area at Dragons tooth. Please note, that after turning from Andy Lane trail to North Mountain trail, there will be no opportunities to refill water. Plan accordingly.
Note that the plan is to meet at the trailhead - but carpooling is encouraged due to limited parking at the trailhead parking lot. If you are willing to drive, please post a comment. As a rider, please comment on the driver’s post that you need a ride. If you do plan to hitch a ride, please offer to chip in for gas.

LIABILITY NOTICE:
Please remember that this group operates under the common adventurer model. We are a group of friends and volunteers organizing trips for fun and shared experience. Participants are expected to be familiar with best hiking practices and choose hikes that align with their physical abilities and experience. Organizers and members are not liable for any injuries, loss, or damage to persons or property arising from group activities. By attending this event, you agree to assume all risks associated with the activity.​

For more information on the common adventurer model, please see Ron Watters' definition.​

If you believe you may be lost during the hike, follow the advice of the US Forest Service.
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See you on the trail!