(Date Change) Belated Easter Hike and Picnic (Moderately Strenuous)
Details
I did this last year for Easter and find it's a great spot for a group picnic afterwards. For those who don’t have plans for Easter, let’s do a hike off the Blue Ridge Parkway and have a picnic when we finish. Humpback Rocks gets very crowded on weekends, and I’m sure Easter weekend will be no exception, but the picnic area further down the BRP is lovely. We’re going to meet at the far end (the little outer loop on the map) by the trail entrance.
The hike to Humpback Rocks from the picnic area tends to be quite peaceful. Humpback Rocks will likely be a madhouse, so we won’t spend much time there, but rather we’ll spend more of our time at some of the many overlooks the AT has to offer that are likely to be far less occupied and better for a group (and the views are just as wonderful).
This will be an out and back. We’ll start by doing the short trek out to Catoctin Overlook, then retrace our steps to hop onto the AT to get out to Humpback Rocks, see if we want to brave any crowds, and head back to picnic.
Bring a chair and a favorite food for potluck. I’ll be providing some food options and seltzers but bring what you’d like to contribute. Contributions aren’t necessary, but they are appreciated by any who wish to do so.
I’ll provide utensils and plates. I have a big box of reusables, for those concerned about environmentally friendly options.
Difficulty Rating: Moderately Strenuous; Approximately 6.42 miles with an elevation gain of about 1312 ft.
What to Bring/Wear: at least 2-3 liters of water, weather appropriate clothing and proper footwear, trekking poles, snacks, sunscreen, tick spray
Weather: If inclement weather is forecasted, I’ll reschedule this hike for a different day. It won't be Easter, but we can still do a picnic if I do need to reschedule.
Dog Policy: Dogs are allowed. Please keep them leashed for their safety and for the comfort of other hikers. I do not recommend taking dogs up Humpback Rocks. It tends to get crowded on weekends and the rocks are slippery.
RSVP: If you find you’re not going to be able to attend, please update your RSVP to “Not Going” as soon as you can, so I know not to expect you and to allow others on the waitlist time to prepare. Thanks!