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Details

During this two-day backpacking trip we will experience a small section of the famous Appalachian Trail. This segment of the A.T. will take us by some nice overlooks and should be especially beautiful during the fall. This trip includes significant elevation gain and as such is NOT recommended for first-time or inexperienced backpackers.

We will meet at the Vienna South Metro Station at 8:00 AM and carpool to the trailhead. Drive time is about 3 hours. Please post a comment below if you are willing to drive. Carpooling saves the environment and makes friends.

## Trail Facts

Trail Details:

I am limiting this trip to 10 people, so please only sign up if you are 100% committed to attending.

Day 1: After arriving at the Appalachian Trail parking area we will put on our packs and hike about 9.3 miles to the Punchbowl Shelter. Along the way we will pass by Little Rocky Row, Big Rocky Row, Bluff Mountain, and Punchbowl Mountain. Once we reach the shelter we will set up camp and enjoy the evening.

Day 2: During the second day we will begin our return trip on the Appalachian Trail but will make a left turn near Saltlog Gap and follow that trail by Peavine Mountain. Once we reach Forest Road 36 we will follow it all the way back to our cars.

I plan to stop at Box Office Brewery in Strasburg on the way home -- the address is 177 E King St, Strasburg, VA 22657.

Gear List
Note: Be prepared for varying temperatures; layering is key.

Essential Items:

  • Tent
  • Sleeping pad​
  • Sleeping bag suitable for expected temperatures​
  • Backpack (appropriate for overnight backpacking)​
  • Backpacking stove with fuel​
  • Pot, cup, dish, and utensils​
  • Dehydrated meals​ and snacks (Saturday: snacks/dinner, Sunday: breakfast/snacks)
  • 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)
  • 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​​

Saturday Itinerary:

8:00 AM: Meet at the Vienna South Metro Station.
8:15 AM: Depart for the trailhead.
12:00 PM: Arrive and begin the trip.
4:30 PM: Arrive at the shelter.

(Set up camp, eat dinner, etc. for the rest of the evening.)

Sunday Itinerary:

6:00 AM: Break camp, eat breakfast.
8:00 AM: Depart for the trailhead.
12:00 PM: Arrive at our cars, drive to the restaurant.
2:00 PM: Arrive at the restaurant.
3:30 PM: Depart for the carpooling location.
5:00 PM: Arrive at the Vienna South Metro Station.

(Setting the end time to 6:00 PM to allow time for the unexpected.)

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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Related topics

Events in Vienna, VA
Backpacking
Camping
Hiking
Backcountry
Wilderness Hiking

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