appalachian trail ho blog graveyard the phlo

What You Need to Know: This area is blessed with ample springs, creeks and other water sources, unlike some other stretches of the Virginia AT. The Camping: Backpackers have their choice of two trail shelters, as well as campsites along Dismal Creek and some ridge top locales near springs. The final part of the adventure leads down to the brawling New River. Rise to the top of Flat Top Mountain, flirting with 4,000 feet in elevation before joining Pearis Mountain, where views await from several locations, including the famed Angels Rest, where you gain an expansive aspect of the New River Valley from commanding heights. Enjoy some streamside Appalachian Trail hiking, relatively unusual within Virginia’s AT trail mileage. From there, take the Appalachian Trail northbound, cruising up valley of Dismal Branch. Start your hike off with a splash at Dismal Falls, a captivating cataract that is much prettier than its name implies. Why Go: Stream hiking, views, ridge running, lesser-trod trail segment

What You Need to Know: Beware wind, fog, rain and cold weather in this most high country.ĪPPALACHIAN TRAIL, FALLS OF DISMAL TO NEW RIVER Photo Credit: Michael Speed, Town: PearisburgĮlevation Highs and Lows: 1,620 low point, 4,000 high point The Camping: Backpackers can choose 3 trail shelters along the way or find their own tent site in numerous wooded areas. Part of the trail passes through Grayson Highlands State Park. Numerous rock outcrops jut above meadows where wild ponies graze and blueberries ripen late in summer. Along the way it passes through rare and lofty spruce-fir forests and nears Mount Rogers, the highest point in Virginia. Situated at Mount Rogers National Recreation Area, this part of the AT presents fine views from beginning to end. This is the highest elevation segment of the entire Virginia portion of the Appalachian Trail. Why Go: Two wildernesses, high country panoramas, wild ponies What You Need to Know: Backpackers will see beauty throughout, but they will also see other hikers, backpackers and bicyclers on the Virginia Creeper Trail - this is not a circuit for solitude seekers.ĪPPALACHIAN TRAIL, ELK GARDEN TO FOX CREEK Photo Credit: Nicholas Moore, Town: Trout DaleĮlevation Highs and Lows: 3,400 low point, 5,240 high point

Your primary overnighting option along the AT is the Saunders Trail shelter and adjacent tent sites. The Camping: Campsites are bountiful along the Virginia Creeper Trail. Take the AT back to the trailhead, switchbacking downhill off Straight Mountain. Climb to the crest of Straight Mountain, where partial views can be had before reaching Saunders trail shelter and a second night’s camping option. A steady but very mild grade takes you to meet the Appalachian Trail. This fun circuit in Mount Rogers National Recreation Area cruises up the gorgeous Whitetop Laurel Creek Valley on the famed Virginia Creeper Trail. Why Go: Historic rail trail, stream, trail shelter, partial views

Elevation Highs and Lows: 2,190 low point, 3,410 high point

Appalachian trail ho blog graveyard the phlo