🎒🥾⛺️⛰ Overnight Backpacking Trip: Strickler & Duncan Knobs

## Overview

Strickler and Duncan Knobs are two highlights within the Massanutten mountains, renowned for their scenic views and enjoyable rock scrambles. This trip will be an overnight backpacking trip that lets us explore both: Strickler Knob on day 1, and Duncan Knob on day 2.
The approximate length of the trip will be 10 miles in total split over the two days. No permits are required for this trip.

Route Overview: https://www.plotaroute.com/route/2990414
Note: Local Weekend Forecast

• Sa 06/14 🌤️ H:L 84:63F 0614 Luray VA
• Su 06/15 🌤️ H:L 85:65F 0615 Luray VA

## Day 1 (6/14)

• We'll meet at 10:15am at the Scothorn Gap Trailhead Parking Lot (https://maps.app.goo.gl/XRxBcQaiMmCVWiq29) This is where we'll park our cars.
• We'll start the hike up the yellow-blazed Scothorn Gap Trail until reaching an intersection with the orange-blazed Massanutten Trail (1.3 miles)
• We'll follow along the orange-blazed Massanutten Trail until reaching the base of the pink-blazed Strickler Knob Trail (0.6 miles)
• At this point, we'll temporarily ditch our packs for the hike up Strickler Knob. Expect a roughly 3/4 mile trail with some boulder hopping and scrambling.
• After enjoying the views from Strickler Knob, we'll go back down the 3/4 miles to the Massanutten Trail, and continue along it for approximately 2 miles until we reach another junction.
• Here, we'll follow the blue-blazed Gap Creek Trail around 3/4 mile to Peach Orchard Gap, where we'll set up camp for the night
• Total distance covered: ~6.3 miles

## Day 2 (6/15)

• For those that want some sunrise views, we can wake up early and scramble up to the top of Duncan Knob. The trail to the top is fairly short (~1/4 mile), but will require some scrambling and climbing over boulders to reach the top. If we want to catch the sunrise from the top, it looks like the sunrise on 6/15 should be at ~5:50 AM
• After enjoying the views, we'll head back down and pack up camp
• The rest of the hike should be relatively straightforward. We'll continue along Gap Creek Trail until it meets up with Scothorn Gap Trail (1/4 mile)
• We'll follow Scothorn Gap Trail back 1.5 miles to the intersection with Massanutten Trail we encountered on day 1
• We'll continue along Scothorn Gap Trail 1.3 miles back to the parking lot
• Total distance covered: ~3.7 miles

## Essential Items

• Backpack: An appropriate backpack for overnight backpacking
• Shelter: A lightweight tent and sleeping bag + sleeping pad appropriate for overnight low temperatures
• Cooking: A backpacking stove, fuel, cooking pot, eating utensils, and sufficient food for the 2 days
• Navigation: A reliable GPS device/app with downloaded offline maps, and/or a map of the Massanutten Range + a compass are crucial for staying on course
• Safety & First Aid: A comprehensive first-aid kit, a headlamp with extra batteries, fire starter, and a multi-tool/knife are vital for preparedness
• Hydration: Water bottles or a hydration reservoir with a minimum 3-4 liter capacity, along with a water filter or purification tablets, are critical due to the limited and dry water sources on the ridge
• Insulation: A layered clothing system, including base layers and mid-layers, is essential to adapt to rapidly changing temperatures. Evenings on the ridge can be quite cold.
• Rain Gear: Waterproof jacket and pack cover are necessary to protect against precipitation

## Other Suggested Items

• Sun Protection: Sunscreen, sunglasses, and/or a wide-brimmed hat
• Trekking Poles: These are highly beneficial for maintaining stability on the uneven, rocky terrain and for reducing strain during descents
• Insect/Tick Repellent: Especially important for protection in overgrown and muddy sections of the trail where ticks & insects may be prevalent
• Power Bank: To charge electronic devices such as phones or GPS units
• Games, books, and other entertainment

Liability Notice:
This trip is organized informally among friends and fellow adventurers. It is not a guided service or professional operation. Each participant is solely responsible for their own safety, preparation, and decision-making in the backcountry. You are expected to know your limits, carry appropriate gear, and follow Leave No Trace principles. By joining this backpacking trip, you acknowledge the inherent risks involved and agree that the organizers and other participants are not liable for any harm, loss, or damage to persons or property incurred. Your participation is voluntary and at your own risk.