Virginia Hiking and Camping

## 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.

Save the Date!!!

Its Hopper's time again. I thought I would post early, so you can get it on your calender. Its one of my favorite campgrounds due to its enormous fire ring, the privacy and location near great attractions.

-Devil's Marble Yard (an Epic Rock Scramble)
-Natural Bridge
-Appalachian Trail

This year I plan on doing the Natural Bridge as part of the Trail Quest on Sat, but please feel free to do whatever you want. The Marble Yard is fabulous! Hopefully someone can step up to lead a hike to the Marble Yard.

Per the government website:

"Hopper Creek Group Campground offers a shaded and rustic atmosphere for group tent camping with an open area for activities and a large campfire ring for evening gatherings. Because only one group can reserve the area at a time, it offers a great opportunity for privacy and solitude."

"The group camp can accommodate up to 50 people. It is designated for tent camping only, and tent pads are provided. The site is equipped with 12 picnic tables, a pedestal double grill, a large campfire circle and a vault toilet. Drinking water is not provided; campers must bring their own supply. Showers are available at nearby Cave Mountain Lake Recreation Area - at the beach bathhouse. A day use fee would apply to Hopper Creek campers entering Cave Mountain Lake."

This is basically a car camping trip. You do have to walk your gear to where ever you want to set up. You will need to provide your own camping gear and your own food.

I have reserved the site for up to 25 people. Per the website, it says only 8 cars, but I believe more can fit. Just try to ride with someone if you can.

IMPORTANT: I will not be providing a carpool location but I would advise you come before dark as it is kind of hard to find in the dark if you are not familiar and cell service is spotty. The sign was back up this year and if you go past the sign that says the road end and a very small bridge, you have gone too far.

https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/233164?tab=info

There will be $10 non-refundable fee per person. When you sign up, you will be placed on the waitlist until you pay. First ones who pay, will be added to the going list. Please message for payment information. I do PayPal, Zelle, check, cash and Venmo. Please make sure you put the name and date of the trip you are paying for in the description and also use friends and family.

On Wednesday before the event a decision will be made as to the weather and if its a go. If cancelled due to weather you will be refunded at this time. If its raining and/or colder than 25, I will probably cancel, but we can make a group decision.

By signing up, you are responsible for your own safety. We are not guides.