St. Mary's Wilderness Backpacking Trip

St. Mary's Wilderness Backpacking Trip
June 14 and June 15

For a summer backpacking trip how about one with a cool flowing small river and even swimming holes. St. Mary's Wilderness bounded by the parkway to the east and mountains to the west is home to the St. Mary's river that starts here and flows south the Maury and then the James. I plan on leaving Williamsburg June 14 early Saturday morning at 7AM and head west to the Blue Ridge Parkway and then head south to just beyond mile post 22 on the right or west side is a parking lot to a forest road and Bald mountain. I hope to get there about 10AM and hike 7 1/2 miles on the forest road to green pond (one of the few natural lakes in Virginia) then south on the St. Mary's trail crossing St. Mary's river which is just a small stream at this point three times till I reach the ore processing site which is a huge flat grassy area to camp. This area has ample camping and time to play in the river maybe even hike down to one of the swimming holes as well. Camp the night then on Sunday June 15 hike the 4 1/2 miles up Mine Bank Trail to Bald Mountain Trail to the Forest road and back to my vehicle. It should be noted that on Saturday there is about a 1000' in elevation drop and on Sunday there is about a 1000' elevation gain. From there back to Williamsburg maybe by way of the Devil's Backbone Brewery.
Please note the following:

• I am driving my truck and I can carry three people besides myself. Any more sign up they will have to have a driver
• I have maps but not sure these trails are on any app or site. I use the National Geographic map #789 and the PATC map #12 also features it.
• This trail does not have any shelters or privies or any places to resupply so pack accordingly. I do not mind sharing my water filter but you need to pack everything for meals as well as sleeping and hiking. Also it is summer so plan for sun, heat and bugs.
• Water is not available until I reach the camp site on the first day so pack what you need to hike on Saturday. Sunday water is along both trails out.
• This is a good trip for first time backpackers as well as seasoned backpackers.
• I go regardless of weather. Check Waynesboro Virginia for weather but subtract a few degrees when we are in the mountains.
• I practice Leave No Trace so pack out what you pack in.
• This is a wilderness area so the trails are not marked or have directions on them.
• Costs: I expect anyone riding with me to split equally the cost for gas

> * You are responsible for making all arrangements if you have to leave the trail early.

> * I encourage you to call me if you have any questions and you must call me if you plan to go on this trip.

> Mark J Wenger AIA
> Mark J Wenger Architects
> 105 Thorpe's Parish
> Williamsburg, Virginia 23185
> 948-529-0043