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Details

The Perry Valley Loop is a wonderful loop hike that includes Big Schloss, Tibbet Knob and Half-Moon Mountain in the George Washington National Forest. This is a full 3 days, beginning on Friday and concluding Sunday afternoon.

  • Length: 27.4 miles
  • Duration: 3 days & 2 nights
  • Elevation Gain: 5,133 feet
  • Peak Elevation: 2,964 feet
  • Difficulty Level: Strenuous
  • Cost: None!

For a thorough overview, please consider reading "Perry Valley Loop Backpacking Guide" from Into the Backcountry.

For Backpacking Trips, all participants will be waitlisted until you have been vetted. Please answer all of the questions asked during the RSVP or you will remain on Waitlist until they are received.
Detailed logistics, carpooling and other trip details will be EMAILED once we have finalized the participants.

Notes:

  • The PATC requires each hiker to sign a liability waiver, which will be available at the trailhead.
  • Please check Meetup the night before. I will cancel a hike due to unsafe conditions.
  • Attendance is limited at the discretion of our hike leaders. PATC rules do not permit children under 18 years to participate in a hike without a parent or guardian present.
  • Potomac Appalachian Trail Club (PATC) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit. Club volunteers maintain over 1000 miles of trails in Pennsylvania, Maryland, West Virginia, and Virginia, including 240 miles of AT (and the section we will hike!). For more information about PATC, please visit https://www.patc.net/

Backpacking Trip Essential Requirements & Expectations
These items outline specific requirements and expectations for all participants on our backpacking trips. These are in addition to the PATC Liability Waiver and are crucial for ensuring the safety and enjoyment of everyone, especially given the remote nature of these trips.

Please read carefully. By registering for a backpacking trip, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to adhere to these requirements.
1. Self-Sufficiency & Responsibility:
* This is a group trip, but we operate on a self-sufficient model. You are responsible for your own well-being and preparedness throughout the trip.
* You must carry all your essential equipment, including shelter, food, a first-aid kit, water, and water purification supplies. Sharing some items with a partner is acceptable.
2. Navigation & Preparedness:
* You are expected to understand the trip's difficulty, including total mileage, elevation gains and declines, type of terrain, and daily splits.
* You must be in good physical shape and capable of completing the planned itinerary.
* You are required to have your own printed maps, as well as a compass and/or GPS, and know how to navigate. This is particularly important if you miss the group's morning departure.
* If you have a medical condition that could become relevant during the trip (e.g., carrying an EpiPen or inhalers), you must inform the hike leader in advance.
3. Leave No Trace & Wildlife Safety:
* All participants must follow Leave No Trace (LNT) principles.
* You must have an established method for securing your food from bears at night.
4. Group Dynamics & Punctuality:
* All participants must be 18 or older.
* Leave your dog at home for backpacking trips.
* If carpooling, please bring cash or use Venmo to offset the driver's gas expenses.
* Punctuality is essential. Be on time for carpool departures and be ready to leave campsites at the agreed-upon times.
* If you tend to move slowly in the mornings, please allow extra time to be ready for departure.
* Bring a great sense of humor – it's an essential piece of gear!
5. Communication:
* We will be in a remote area that may be out of cell service.
* If you have any questions or concerns before or during the trip, please ask the hike leader.

Understanding the Risks:
Please be aware that backpacking in a remote area, potentially out of cell service, involves inherent dangers and risks. Your preparedness and adherence to these guidelines are vital for the safety of yourself and the entire group.

Questions:
David M (“Square Feet”) is the PATC Volunteer leading this event and is a PATC certified Hike & Backpacking Leader, member of Trail Patrol and the Backpacking Committee Chair. David is certified in Wilderness First Aid. PATC’s goal is to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone, so if you have any questions or need assistance along the way, don’t hesitate to reach out!

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