Sky Meadows State Park - Both Sides (Rating: A) (Option for B or C)
Details
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.
13 miles with 2000 ft. elevation gain for both sides.
There will be an option for a B or C hike depending on your preference if you only want to do the main side.
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 James Ball, Hadow, South Ridge, North Ridge Trails,, a portion of the Appalachian Trail and the Ambassador Whitehouse 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. At this point you will have the option to to complete the C level hike. Most of the elevation gain is when we ascend to the top of the ridge to the AT. After finishing the main side of the park we will make our way to the Lost Mountain side and complete that section before returning to the parking lot. B level hikers will have the option to return shortly after that point and before continuing on to Lost Mountain.
The pace will be about 2.5 mph, slower uphill. Completing both sides is very close to an A+ hike, so make sure you are physically up to it. Any questions, let me know.
Bring:
At least 2-3 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 8:15am 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.
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 TBD😊
Any questions please message me here or text/call me at 202-528-0456. If you text me please include your name.