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The time has come for the long awaited gourmet backpacking trip - just before Thanksgiving. Bring your cooking A-game.

Backpacking need not always be characterized by food deprivation and uninspired freeze dried meals. This trip will be your opportunity to unleash your culinary impulses in a celebration of backcountry gastronomy.

We will hike a leisurely route along Seneca Creek, stopping occasionally to check out waterfalls and share the fanciest appetizers that can be carried into the backcountry. Everyone is encouraged to bring hors d'oeuvres to share with the group and any bewildered hikers that pass by. Come dinner time, we anticipate spectacular feats of culinary genius. Sharing is, of course, encouraged

## Trail Facts

Trip Details:
We will meet at The Vienna Metro station on Saturday morning at 8am and drive to the Seneca Creek Trailhead in WV. The drive is about 3.5 hours - I will drive and am happy to have up to 3 others carpool with me. My small black labrador will be in the back seat, FYI.

When we arrive at the trailhead, we will carry all of our heavy foodstuff and equipment an easy 5 miles down a mostly flat trail to our campsite. At the campsite, we will drop our gear fairly early to hangout and start cooking.

The campsite I have in mind sits near a waterfall that is right next to a cave of sorts - the "cave" is an area where the rocks provide shelter from wind and elements. Perfect for cooking!

The goal is to dazzle each other with feats of culinary prowess and ingenuity (awards will be given). The second day, we will return the route we came back to the cars.

On the way home, we can optionally stop at 2 Silos Brewing in Manassas (9925 Discovery Blvd, Manassas, VA 20109).

AWARDS
We will be "awarding" the following prizes. Winners will receive backcountry glory and the benefit of eating whatever food they brought.
• Best Hors d'oeuvres
• Tastiest Food
• Fanciest Food
• Most Ridiculous Food/Cooking Implement

Carpool: Post a comment if you need or are willing to offer a ride – be a friend to the environment, save money, and make friends.

GEAR LIST
Note: Make sure you pack layers, I expect night temps to be somewhat chilly.

Essential Items:

  • FANCY food and cooking equipment
  • Hors D'oeuvres or fancy homemade snacks
  • Tent
  • Sleeping pad​
  • Sleeping bag suitable for expected temperatures​
  • Backpack (appropriate for overnight backpacking)​
  • Backpacking stove with fuel​
  • Pot, cup, dish, and utensils​
  • Water bottles or hydration system (3-liter capacity)​
  • Bag or canister for securely storing food and other scented items
  • Water filter or purification tablets​
  • Headlamp with extra batteries​
  • Rain gear
  • Dry bags or pack cover​
  • Warm clothing layers (non-cotton)
  • Water shoes (we have several stream crossings)
  • Trowel and toiletries for Leave No Trace compliance

Optional Items:

  • Personal first aid kit​
  • Map and compass or GPS device
  • Power bank or external battery
  • Trekking poles​
  • Camp shoes
  • Electrolyte supplements​
  • Alcohol​
  • Books, games, or other entertainment
  • Gaiters​
  • Sunscreen, lip balm, insect repellent​​

LIABILITY NOTICE:
Please remember that this group operates under the common adventurer model. We are a group of friends and volunteers organizing trips for fun and shared experience. Participants are expected to be familiar with best hiking practices and choose hikes that align with their physical abilities and experience. Organizers and members are not liable for any injuries, loss, or damage to persons or property arising from group activities. By attending this event, you agree to assume all risks associated with the activity.​

For more information on the common adventurer model, please see Ron Watters' definition.​

If you believe you may be lost during the hike, follow the advice of the US Forest Service.​

See you on the trail!

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