Austin Mountain - Brown's Gap Circuit Hike, 11 miles (Strenuous)
Details
Starting Point - 11611 Browns Gap Rd, Grottoes, VA 24441
Ending Point - 11611 Browns Gap Rd, Grottoes, VA 24441
Hike Distance/Rating/Elevation - 11 miles/Strenuous/2200 feet of elevation, Pace 2.25 to 2.5 mph.
Hike Highlights - Austin Mountain, Madison Run, Rock Slides and an easy stroll home via Brown's Gap (Madison Run) Fire Road. Note: Hike optimized for SNP 500 hiker...
This hike starts with a 1,200 foot climb across some sections of rocky terrain and then becomes much tamer. Hiking sticks and sturdy shoes/boots are recommended due to the rough start.
Optional, depending on the groups interest, we will do a quick bushwhack to the top of Austin Mountain to see the views to the north of Rocky Top and Lewis Peak that are only visible during leaf off conditions. We will continue up the ridge on Austin Mtn trail connecting with the Rocky Top trail-Big Run Spur trail on our way to Skyline Drive.
Following a quick lunch, we will descend back to the cars via Brown's Run Gap Fire Road.
Detailed description:
GPX for download - https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/map--83419
https://www.hikingupward.com/SNP/AustinFurnaceMountains/
Post-hike rehydration will be at nearby Stable Craft Brewing, 375 Madrid Road, Waynesboro, VA 22980
Carpools can be arranged accordingly for those, who wish to partake in the post hike.
What to Bring - Broken in hiking boots, trekking poles, layers of clothing for colder mountain weather, $5 for your driver if not driving, beanies/gloves, lunch/snacks, 3 to 4 liters of water, a good day pack, a first aid kit, camera/phone, an annual SNP pass if you have one.
Disclaimer #2 - GetHiking Charlottesville's Organizers are not professional guides. Expect the same risks and take the same precautions you would take if you were hiking alone. With your RSVP you agree with this disclaimer - Disclaimer (https://www.meetup.com/GetHiking-Charlottesville-Charlottesville-VA/pages/21088739/Disclaimer/)