Sky Meadows State Park (Rating: B)

You must read the following NVHC Sign-in Sheet Statement/Liability Disclaimer, [https://nvhc.com/signin.pdf ](https://nvhc.com/signin.pdf)and then answer the question that you will see when you RSVP with "I accept" to be permitted on the hike.

8.5 miles with 1500 feet elevation gain.

Let's hike to see the sights of Sky Meadows!

Description:
Sky Meadows State Park is rich in history, the park has rolling pastures and woodlands, scenic vistas and is also a working farm. The park also has access to the Appalachian Trail which we will hike our way up to.

Starting from Sky Meadows State Park visitors center parking area, we will combine several trails including the South Ridge, North Ridge Trails, the Old Trail, a portion of the Appalachian Trail and the Ambassador Whitehouse Trail. We'll also check out a new trail. There a some nice scenic overlooks including the Paris, VA overlook where we will take a break before returning back down to the visitor center. Most of the elevation gain is when we ascend to the top of the ridge to the AT. Make sure you are up to doing the elevation gain. After that, its mostly level and downhill.

The pace will be about 2.5 mph, slower uphill.

Bring:
At least 2 liters of water/hydration, snacks/lunch, and sturdy hiking shoes since there are some rocky areas, and tree roots. Recommend insect repellent and sunscreen. Hiking poles if you normally use them.

Fee:
The park fee is $10 unless you have a Virginia State Park Pass or use your REI purchase receipt parking coupon from a participating Virginia REI.
Provide your REI receipt to the contact station ranger or insert it in a self-pay envelope. If main entrance contact station is not staffed you must use the self-pay envelope provided at the gate and hang the stub on your rearview mirror.

Dogs are welcome. NVHC Dog policy: https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy

CARPOOLING: For those who are looking to carpool, meet at University Blvd - Gainesville Park and Ride and plan to leave at 7:45-8am to arrive at the trailhead in time to get signed in and start hiking at 9am.

A new Sheetz has opened in the Park & Ride, this would be a good meeting point. New Stable Way, directly across from the Sheetz store.
GPS 38.801119, -77.589532

Sky Meadows trail map link: https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/document/data/trail-guide-skymeadows.pdf

NOTE: The hike starts at 9am at the parking lot at Sky Meadows State Park. If you are carpooling from Gainesville Park and Ride plan on leaving there by 8:15am. The hike leader may depart around 8:10am.
Suggested carpool fee is $3.00

Meeting Place Instructions: We are meeting at the parking lot closest to the Visitor Center where the hike starts GPS coordinates 38.991732, -77.966120

This parking lot is in front of the Mount Bleak House. You may want to arrive early to secure a parking spot.

Optional post hike rehydration at Three Fox Vineyards & Brewery😊

Any questions please message me here or text/call me at 202-528-0456. If you text me please include your name.