Here is a trip to one of the most photographed spots on the Appalachian Trail, McAfee Knob! This is a "twofer" trip as we will also hike to Dragon's Tooth on Sunday....and if we have enough time stop by at Natural Bridge ($18) since it is right off the interstate on the way home! This is a moderate backpacking trip to McAfee Knob on Saturday to enjoy the sunset and sunrise the next morning, then back down to the cars, ditch the packs and hike up to Dragon's Tooth a few miles away as it is considered the toughest part of the Appalchian Trail! If backpacking is not your thing, car camping is also available nearby for a fun, easy weekend trip! This is a great opportunity to knock these 2 stellar hikes off our lists and have a lot of fun in the process! My fellow organizer Kyle (Washington Backpackers Meetup Group) grew up down there and also told me of a great place to eat as well, so we will try to work it in, to make this an easier "backpacking 101" trip! If per chance there is rain, we will simply car camp and do day hikes, but right now the weather is looking good! You can find the hike description for McAfee Knob here:
http://www.hikingupwa...
and for Dragon's Tooth here:
http://www.hikingupwa...
McAfee Knob is a 1700' climb in 4.4 miles so a good workout, but once on top pretty easy. The pictures are stunning to say the least! Dragon's Tooth is a 1500' climb in 2.5 miles which is why we are ditching the packs before doing it. If this is too tough, just don't do it and go eat at the restaurant nearby or stop at Natural Bridge for $18 on the way home! Please note this is a rain or shine event. If weather is bad, we will car camp and day hike. Howerver, right now the weather looks great with highs in the mid-50's and lows of 40. Expect to be back later on Sunday...say 6 PM. This is a 3 1/2 hour drive from Centreville, VA or almost 5 hours from Towson, MD. A drive, but well worth it for an early Holiday Weekend with fun people and spectacular scenery! Dogs and Kids of all ages welcome on this one as long as they don't sleep in my tent!