Virginia Hiking and Camping

This weekend is all about sharing our experiences with backpacking and camping. We will have some old pros with us who can explain what they have learned out in the woods backpacking. And we can share all of our experiences.

The weekend will begin in camp on Saturday at Pocahontas. We have a group of campsites that will let us coordinate our weekend. These sites have been funded so all you need to do is come.

After we set up camp Saturday morning, then we will drive to the horse riding parking area to begin our hike. The loop hike is about 4.2 miles long. Along the way, we will talk about how to plan a hike and manage one. You’ll hear terms like hiking buddies, trail junction protocols and sweeps.

Saturday afternoon we can talk about our backpacks, camping equipment, cooking in camp, maybe something about camping/hiking clothing and what we have learned about managing weather while camping. I believe we'll have enough sunlight so we can hike to Beaver Lake and watch the sunset.

Sunday morning, we will talk about camp cooking as we prepare morning coffee. What is the difference between a campfire, alcohol stove, Solo Stove, and propane stoves? After breakfast and breaking camp, we will go on another hike on the north side of Swift Creek lake using the Co-op trail, Forest Exploration trails. Picture below shows as portion of that trial. This hike will let us test some of what we learned about hiking from Saturday afternoon. But this time we'll ask some of the newcomers to participate in leading the hike, so listen close to our Camp 7 hike on Saturday. We should be wrapping by 2 PM.

Hope to see you there.

This is a three-day outing beginning Saturday morning at the Little House Big House parking lot just west of Lexington, VA.

The timing for this trip is to coincide with springtime blooming of rhododendrons. These cover the full length of Little House Mountain's summit and can be beautiful. In previous outings in May, we have walked beneath a canopy of blooms.

We will hike about 2 miles along a forest road to the saddle between the two mountains for our camp site. After setting up camp, there is the option to hike to the Big House Mountain summit and enjoy the sunset before returning to camp.

Sunday morning, we will hike to the summit of Little House stopping at its northern terminus for a packed in lunch.

Monday morning, we will break camp, hike back down the forest road to the cars and return home.

-Reservations now opened for June 6th weekend.

Join me in a car camping trip at North Bend Park on John H. Kerr Reservoir. Less than 2 hours from Richmond, I feel this is one of Virginia's best kept secrets. This is a great place to start your summer! We mainly just float the entire time on the private beaches right in front of our campsites. I have reserved site 161 C which is in the C loop. (Please note: this site is a little distance from the bathhouse.) If you would like to attend, you must reserve your own site thru recreation.gov. You must first set up an account if you don't already have one. I have listed the reservation site below. Please copy and paste into browser.

https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/233563?tab=info

Everyone is responsible for their own reservation, equipment, and food. Lets plan a pot luck as we get closer to the event. I just wanted to get this on the calendar, while there are still plenty of sites available. If you reserve a site and would like to share, please post in the comments.

Also bring your floats, kayaks, and stand up paddleboards!

## Details

Join us for an epic 5-night backpacking adventure through the stunning White Mountains of New Hampshire, staying in the Appalachian Mountain Club's renowned huts. Choose from two routes:

• The Appalachian Trail Seekers Route: A challenging 38.7-mile trek with 34.7 miles along the iconic Appalachian Trail and 13,000 feet of elevation gain.
• The Shorter Mileage Route: A less demanding 24.7-mile option with 13.8 miles on the Appalachian Trail and 8,750 feet of elevation gain.

This self-supported trip will test your skills, endurance, and appreciation for the natural beauty of New Hampshire's high peaks.
Itinerary

• Night 1: Mizpah Spring Hut

Located off the legendary Crawford Path, this hut offers access to the southern Presidential Range. Enjoy a cozy bunk and serene wilderness views at 3,777 feet.

• Night 2: Shapleigh Bunkhouse

Near the Highland Center, this bunkhouse is perfect for relaxing after a rewarding day. Take advantage of the shared amenities, including showers and a common area.

• Night 3: Zealand Falls Hut

Nestled beside Zealand Falls, this hut offers breathtaking views of Zealand Valley and the Pemigewasset Wilderness. Cool off in the falls or enjoy peaceful mountain views.

• Night 4: Galehead Hut

Perched at 3,780 feet, Galehead Hut boasts sweeping views of the Pemigewasset Wilderness. Nearby peaks include Mount Garfield and the majestic Bond Mountains.

• Night 5: Greenleaf Hut

Surrounded by the high alpine beauty of Franconia Ridge, this hut offers stunning views of the Franconia Range, Cannon Mountain, and the Kinsmans at 4,220 feet.

Trip Details

• Cost: $565.52 for 5 nights with AMC membership ($50 annual fee) or $681.62 for non-members. A discounted extended stay rate applies.
• Gear: Bring a sleeping bag, headlamp, warm layers, proper footwear, and essentials (I can provide you with a recommended packing list).
• Food: Breakfast and dinner are included at each hut, with hearty, family-style meals served daily. BYOB for evening relaxation!
• Safety: A Hike Safe Card ($25) is required and ensures you won’t be billed for non-reckless rescue efforts.

Preparation
This trip is not beginner-friendly, as the rugged terrain and steep climbs demand preparation. If you have NOT joined me on a prior hut stay or an extended backpack trip, you must complete a preparatory day hike with me up and down The Priest in Virginia (3,000 feet elevation gain in 3 miles then back down 3 miles). Expect to hike at a pace of 1 mile per hour.

Whether you're chasing the challenge of the longer route or savoring the journey on the shorter trek, this adventure promises unforgettable experiences, camaraderie, and the best views the White Mountains have to offer.

Ready to join us? Pack your gear, lace up your boots, and let’s make memories in the mountains!

Add yourself to the waitlist. Once approved for the hike I will move you to Attending and provide reservation information. First 15 people to make payment will attend.