Beginner Backpacking in the Grayson Highlands

Beginner Backpacking in the Grayson Highlands
Date: June 13 - June 14
Location: Grayson Highlands State Park / Mount Rogers National Recreation Area

Cost: $150 per person (Includes guided hike & pre-trip workshops)
Limit: 10 Participants

Join us for an unforgettable weekend in the "High Country" of Virginia! This guided trip is specifically designed for beginner backpackers who want to experience the magic of the Appalachian Trail without the stress of navigating or planning solo. We’ll trek through windswept balds, explore rocky outcrops, and camp among the famous wild ponies.

The Hike
- Route: Pine Mountain Loop via Massie Gap
- Total Distance: ~11.5 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate (Expect rocky terrain and
some elevation gain, but at a beginner-friendly pace).
-Highlights: 360-degree views from Wilburn Ridge, scenic Rhododendron Gap, and frequent encounters with the friendly wild ponies and longhorn cattle.

Daily Breakdown:
- Day 1: 10:00 AM start at Massie Gap. We’ll hike ~5.5 miles to our campsite at The Scales, a sprawling high-altitude meadow.
- Day 2: ~6 miles back to the trailhead, passing through the most iconic rock formations of the park.

Expert Guidance & Skill Sessions
While on the trail, you won't just be hiking; you'll be learning! We will host mini-sessions on:
- Water Filtration: How to source and treat water safely. -Fire Building: Starting a fire in backcountry conditions.
- Plant ID: Identifying the unique flora of the Southern Appalachians.

Pre-Trip Preparation (Optional Sessions)
1. Meet & Greet (In-Person): May 17th, 9:00am to 11:00am in Frederick, MD. We’ll discuss gear, clothing layers, food prep, and how to pack your bag. Location TBD.
2. Q&A Session (Zoom): June 8th, 7:00pm- 8:00 pm. A final check-in to answer last-minute questions.

The "Trail Town" Experience: Damascus, VA
Want to make it a long weekend? You have the option to add on overnight accommodations in Damascus (the famous "Trail Town USA") for Friday night (June 12), Sunday night (June 14), or both!
Damascus is a must-see destination where the Appalachian Trail runs right down the main sidewalk.

• Eat: Grab a post-hike burger and brew at Damascus Brewery or a coffee at Mojo’s.
• Do: Rent a bike and coast down the famous 34-mile Virginia Creeper Trail, or browse the local outfitters for some new gear.

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How to Join:
1. RSVP here on Meetup.
2. Complete your payment of $150 to secure your spot. Check your meet-up messages for payment information after you RSVP.
3. Keep an eye on your inbox for the Damascus lodging add-on details!

Gear Note: A full gear list will be provided at our first meeting or by email if you’re unable to attend.