Backpacking 201 Prep, Lake Drummond via Washington Ditch Road, Suffolk, VA

Backpacking 201 Prep, Lake Drummond via Washington Ditch Road, Suffolk, VA

Date: Saturday, April 4, 2026·9:00am –12:00pm

Location: Washington Ditch Road, Suffolk, VA 23434 (Park in gravel lot at end of road near trail gate)
Online Sign-up: [https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0F45A5AE29A1F5C61-62622304-backpacking](https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0F45A5AE29A1F5C61-62622304-backpacking&sa=D&source=calendar&usd=2&usg=AOvVaw2gk2kV9TcnRZ6k96eLmoak)

You may attend this 201 Prep hike whether you are attending the Backpacking 201 event or not. Just tell the hike leader your intentions at the 201 Prep hike.

Google Map link:
[https://maps.app.goo.gl/gXVdN7FK1J9FUhuu7](https://www.google.com/url?q=https://maps.app.goo.gl/gXVdN7FK1J9FUhuu7&sa=D&source=calendar&usd=2&usg=AOvVaw14qfFomNVQbMKwpZ3LmGz2)

This is a chance to prepare for the April 17-19 Backpacking 201 hike on the AT from Long Mountain Wayside/Route 60to Route 812 near the James River. The Washington Ditch Trail is a 9 mile out-and-back trail (4.5 miles each way). Much of the hike is along a dirt road with a ditch that leads to Lake Drummond in the heart of the Dismal Swamp. We will walk at a 2.5 mph pace loaded wearing backpacks. This will add some difficulty to the hike, which is on a really flat trail. On the AT hike, I will only be expecting us to hike at 1.75 mph, but itis up and down rugged mountains. Bring bug repellent.
There are two options for loading your pack:

1. Load your pack with random stuff to make it weigh 20-25 lb. total (including the backpack itself).
2. Load your pack with your actual gear, plus food and water.

After the hike, if you want help with your gear, I will stay with those who request help. Other people may leave. Help may include things such as:
1. Practice setting up your tent
2. Questions about gear, clothing, or other things to pack
3. Food for the April 17-19 trip
4. Fitness questions
5. Other related questions