Sky Meadows Loop Hike

Sky Meadows Loop Hike: 7 miles
Sky Meadows State Park straddles the Blue Ridge near Paris Virginia. Its 1800+ acres offer beautiful vistas and moderate to challenging hiking through woods and open fields. Join us for a moderately difficult 7 mile loop hike starting and ending at the Visitors center.

Route Description:
From the visitor's center we will start out heading south on the Boston Mill Road and then turn onto the Piedmont Overlook Trail. We'll climb steeply up to the ridge top, from which we will have several nice vistas looking east over the northern Virginia piedmont countryside. We will then proceed over to the western side of the ridge via several trails, and head south on the old Appalachian Trail. From there we'll traverse the ridge back to the eastern side and then return via the South Ridge Trail. There is a nice stopping point and vista at George's Overlook on the way back.

What to Bring:
You will need sturdy hiking shoes. Trekking poles are also recommended, as some sections of the trail are rocky. You should bring at least 2 liters of water and something to eat (we will have a lunch stop).

Time to Meet:
Please meet at 9:45 for introductions and sign in. We will start hiking promptly at 10:00

Where to Meet:
We will meet at the Visitor's center.
11012 Edmonds Ln, Markham, VA 22643
GPS Coordinates: 38.99086943728909, -77.96592105370809
(Note: these are the coordinates of the visitor's center. You will need to park in one of the adjacent lots and walk over to the center).

There are restroom facilities at the Visitors Center.

Park Fees:
There is a $10 fee per car for park entrance and parking. This is payable by cash or check. You can also pay by credit card using your phone.

Contact Information:
The hike Leader is Peter, telephone: 703-999-9435 Call or text as needed.

Hike Details:
Rating: Moderately difficult
Distance: 7 miles
Elevation Gain: Approximately 1,500 ft
Pace: 2.0 to 2.5 miles per hour
Facilities: Toilets can be found near the visitors center.

AllTrails Map link:
https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/trail-planner-map-135391d?u=i&sh=pzrvpp

Sky Meadows Park Information:
https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/sky-meadows

Cancellation:
In the event that the hike needs to be cancelled, it may be cancelled up to the evening before the hike. Hikers will be notified through comments on this posting.

Notes:
-Please note, you must sign up at by 9:00 PM the day before the hike.
-Please do not show up unregistered.
-To find out more about PATC, click here.
-Consider becoming a member of PATC. To join, click here.