What we’re about
Fun, Fitness, Friendship! The Smith Mountain Lake Walking (Hiking) Club (AVA) is a new chapter of the American Volkssport Association (AVA), which has a network of local clubs in the US and beyond. A volksmarch can either be a leisurely walk or a strenuous hike, depending on the local terrain and what club members want to do. Elevation Gain Ratings 1 or 2 are not strenuous, while 3-5 become increasingly more difficult. There is a preset or pre-marked trail thru a scenic or historic area, often using a trail description or map. The event is non-competitive and participants travel at their own pace, making it an excellent recreational activity for the entire family. We have three types of events: 1. Traditional Walks / Hikes with pre-marked trails (travel during a time window). 2. Year-Round or Seasonal Events, which are self-guided or DIY; 3. Guided Group Walks / Hikes. To defray AVA National Office expenses, guests pay $2. Those wanting AVA event credit pay $4. Please bring correct change in cash. We featured curated walks led by experienced members. Annual dues are $10. Attendees under 18 must have a guardian with them. This hobby is world-wide, so try us if you like to travel! View the short YouTube video below (2:21 minutes). Or contact Ron Jones, the Group Organizer, thru Meetup or at wanderingron@myyahoo.com. See you on the trail!
Upcoming events (1)
See all- See Smith Mountain Lake State Park! Huddleston VA. Walk 5 or 10 km (3 or 6 mi)Smith Mountain Lake State Park, Huddleston, VA$2.00
This is our first Public Walk / Hike lasting all day. Smith Mountain Lake State Park truly is the Jewel of the Blue Ridge Mountains! Park website: https://tinyurl.com/yc4fz2n3. Register from 9 am to 3 pm. Start the 10km by 2 pm to finish by 5 pm. Trails featured are 5 or 10 km (3.1 or 6.2 miles) and heavily forested with roots and rocks. In places the elevation gain is 200 feet from shore to ridge line. Generally you can see the Lake close up or in a distance. 5km trail takes you past a picturesque tobacco barn and winds along the shoreline, crossing to Turtle Island, which you will circle around! 10km trail follows Chestnut Ridge where these trees have been re-introduced. Walk cost is $2, but those wanting AVA walk credit pay $4 (correct change appreciated). Special for this event!! Pick up a free New Walker kit and also do the walk for free!! Dogs and children are welcome but those under 18 must have a guardian present. Pay park entrance fee of $7 at entrance or the Visitor's Center, then drive to the Discovery Center. Look for the Start Point at a picnic table on the left side of the Discovery Center. For more info contact Ron Jones at wanderingron@myyahoo.com or (703) 217-3140. Hope to see you there!
