Backpacking The Appalachian and Mau Har Trail Loop at Three Ridges

Three Ridges Wilderness Backpacking Trip

> > June 28 - June 29

> > Last minute weekend backpacking trip to familiar stomping grounds with great camping, fantastic views and good water. Not familiar with the Three Ridges Wilderness area and the Appalachian Trail that runs through it then this is the trip for you and you have options. The basic trip I plan on leaving Williamsburg June 28 early Saturday morning at 6AM and head west on I-64 to exit at Crozet onto US 250 west then south at the traffic circle on 151 then west on 664 past the entrance to Wintergreen and park on the left at Reid's Gap where it intersects with the Appalachian Trail and the Blue Ridge Parkway. Expect to arrive around 9AM and from here backpack south on the Appalachian Trail 1.7 miles to Maupin Field then another 6.2 miles and up a little over 1000 feet to the top of Three Ridges then down about 2000 feet to Harper's Creek where I plan to camp Saturday night. On Sunday June 29 will pack up and hike south on the Appalachian Trail to the intersection with the Mau Har Trail which I will take back north to Maupin Field and the Appalachian Trail north back to Reid's Gap parking area. The total distance is about 5.4 miles and an elevation gain of about 1500 feet. Keeping in mind all distances and elevations are approximate. From there back to Williamsburg maybe by way of the Devil's Backbone Brewery. Again great views from Three Ridges and beautiful trail and water and water features especially along the Mau Har. Did I say options? Of course you could come up Friday and hike the 1.7 miles in to Maupin Field and then on Saturday only 6.2 miles to Harper's Creek Shelter. Make it easier with prior arrangements could do a point to point by positioning your vehicle at the Tye River parking area so on Sunday an easy 2.7 miles down a 1000 feet from Harper's Creek. Want to make it more challenging? On Saturday backpack past Harper's Creek down a 1000 feet and 2.7 miles to the Tye River and back up the same elevation and distance and camp with the rest of us at Harper's Creek. What ever you do a great trip will be had by all.
> > 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 and these trails are on various apps. I use the National Geographic map #789 and the PATC map #12.
> > * These trails do have shelters and privies but no place 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 available at Maupin then not until Harper's Creek 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 Wintergreen Virginia for weather.
> > * I practice Leave No Trace so pack out what you pack in.
> > * While this is a wilderness area the Appalachian Trail is well marked.
> > * 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
> > [swfl1951@gmail.com](mailto:swfl1951@gmail.com)
> > 948-529-0043