Backpack - VA Triple Crown EPIC 3-Day Backpack - 36 Miles

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Let's hike one of the best backpacking loops VA has to offer - The Virginia Triple Crown. (Picture is from McAfee's Knob)

## Trail Facts

• Difficulty Level: Strenuous
• Length: 36 Miles
• Duration: 3 Days
• Elevation Gain: 6,874 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 or first time backpackers. 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 Friday 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.

(Event is crossposted in 30-40s NOVA Explorers)

LIABILITY NOTICE:
Please remember that this group is an informal group of friends and volunteers initiating trips under the common adventurer model (http://www.ronwatters.com/CADefine.htm) We do expect our members to be familiar with the best practices of hiking – this is not a group for first-time hikers and is NOT a group for those seeking hiking instruction.
We're also not experts or professionals, nor are we trained hike leaders, nor do we scout out hikes. We plan hikes for fun. You are responsible for your own welfare and safety at all events. Be sure to choose to attend hikes only within your own physical abilities and hiking knowledge; take maps, suitable clothing, provisions (at least two liters of water plus any food or medical supplies you might require), and equipment, and act responsibly and safely at all times. If you ever believe you may be lost, follow the advice of the US Forest Service. https://www.fs.fed.us/visit/know-before-you-go/if-you-get-lost
Organizers and members shall not be liable for any injuries, loss, or damage to persons or property, direct or consequential, arising from any aspect this group’s activities. By attending this event, you represent that you agree to personally assume any and all risks associated with the Activity. You further agree to hold group organizers harmless from any and all claims, loss or damage to personal property, liabilities and costs, including attorney’s fees, as a result of my participation in this Activity, including travel to and from the Activity or any events incidental to this Activity.