APPALACHIAN TRAIL SECTION BACKPACK HIGHLIGHTS SEPTEMBER 22-29, 2019 TRIP SUMMARY Adding to your personal mileage on the AT! Beautiful 360 degree views every day Some of the best known landmarks on the AT, including the Audie Murphy monument, Dragon's Tooth, Tinker Cliff and McAfee knob Backpacking in cool autumn weather during the height of fall foliage Refining our lightweight backpacking techniques so our packs stay under 30 lbs. Phone: 877-439-4042 Outside the US: 410-435-1965 Fax: 410-435-3084 Email: info@goodadventure.com
TRIP AT A GLANCE Dates: Sep 22-29, 2019 Location: Roanoke, VA Cost: $1,345.00 Activities: Backpacking Arrive: Arrive Roanoke Airport (ROA), Roanoke, VA on 9/22/2019 by 3pm Depart: Depart Roanoke Airport (ROA), Roanoke, VA on anytime on 9/29 TRIP OVERVIEW The Appalachian Trail, while often rugged and remote, is designed to accommodate both people who want to hike the entire trail and those who choose to section hike it; that is, hike a new section every year. This year we continue our tradition of offering a new section hike, again returning to southern Virginia. In this section the AT follows the rocky, twisted backbone of Tinker Ridge for some 13 miles. It crosses a series of sandstone outcrops with spectacular views of farms and orchards in the Valley of Virginia and Catawba Valley, of North Mountain, of the jagged shore of Carvin's Cove Reservoir, and of the towering ridges encircling it. The route then follows the crest of Catawba Mountain for eight miles, with significant ups and downs along the way. Near the middle of this section, the trail follows Big Tinker Valley and the mountain ridges beyond. RATING This trip is rated 4 as it involves early mornings, strenuous hiking, carrying 30 pound packs, and significant elevation gain and loss - the difficulty of the hiking is often greater than the mileage indicates. You should be in very good physical condition and have wilderness backpacking experience. Keep in mind that hiking a trail such as the Appalachian Trail is, indeed, not flat and mileage can be quite deceiving. What may look like long mileage can go quite quickly if it is flatter and/or ridge walking while often shorter mileage takes more time because of the elevation gains and losses. Please note that a portion of this section includes a descent from Dragon's Tooth that will involve descending ladders and scrambling boulders. There is also a section along Tinker Cliffs where the trail is on an overhang and close to the edge. If you have height issues, please check with the office prior to registering. Rating: 1 2 3 [4] 5 WHAT'S INCLUDED 2 Experienced AGC backpacking guides Two nights double occupancy lodging and four nights primitive camping 2 dinners at restaurants, all breakfasts (including on trail), all dinners on trail Group camping, cooking, and safety equipment Not included: Transportation to/from Roanoke, VA, Trail lunches, alcoholic beverages, guide gratuities, personal expenses, activities not on the itinerary
OUR ITINERARY Below is the proposed itinerary for the trip. As is true on any adventure travel trip, plans for any specific day may be modified due to weather considerations, unforeseen circumstances, new opportunities, and group interests. DAY 1 SEPTEMBER 22, SUNDAY Please note: This trip is recommended for experienced backpackers. Our preference is that you have participated in the Introduction to Lightweight Backpacking offered each year by AGC in June or have equivalent lightweight backpacking experience. If this trip is the one that fits your schedule but you have never backpacked or if it has been a long time since you have backpacked you will need to plan on arriving at the trip beginning 1 day early, 9/21/2019, by 3pm in order to have adequate time for preparation. The additional charge for this day will be $175 per person and will include a room at the trip hotel (based on double occupancy) and guide. If you have any questions, please contact the office at 1-877-439-4042. Sunday: Meet at 3p.m. at our hotel in Roanoke, Va. If you are flying in, there is a shuttle from the airport and you should plan to arrive by 2:30 pm. We will start with introductions and a discussion of what to leave behind, and then go to dinner. We spend the rest of our evening getting ready for our wilderness backpacking adventure and, as is always a good idea at the beginning of a backpacking trip, get to bed early. DAY 2 SEPTEMBER 23, MONDAY No easing into the trip for us! We begin our journey on the Appalachian Trail at Sinking Creek, VA and head north! A couple miles down the trail we'll see an amazing sight - the Keffer Oak - the largest oak tree on the AT in the south, over 18 feet around and over 300 years old! A magnificent trip with limbs as large as most tree trunks! We'll continue to the top of Bruisers Knob, pass Sarver Hollow Shelter and walk along the ridge with fabulous views, cross over the Eastern Continental Divide and then head downhill to our shelter area for the night, Niday Shelter. Elevation gain/loss: 1320/1429 Mileage: 9.9
DAY 3 SEPTEMBER 24, TUESDAY This morning we begin with a deceptively mellow section. Then, just as we are wondering where the hills has gone, the trail gives way to what we are more used to - up! We will cross several streams, some on bridges and some on rocks, and climb up log steps. We will stop to visit the Audie Murphy Memorial, the site of the 1971 plane crash that killed the most decorated U.S. soldier of WWII. At 3080 feet, the scenic overlook behind the monument affords excellent views of Sinking Creek Mountain and upper Craig Creek Valley. We then begin our descent to our home for the night--pickle Branch Shelter. The final descent into the shelter area will be much steeper than our previous descents and we will be quite happy to have our poles with us! The only disappointment for the day is not finding any pickles waiting for us, much less hamburgers to go with them. Elevation gain/loss: 1112/1351 Mileage: 10.1 DAY 4 SEPTEMBER 25, WEDNESDAY Don't let the shorter mileage lull you into complacency - it's a tough day but also an amazing day! We begin by doing what we usually do in the Southern Appalachians--go up. This time we will climb steeply up a rock and often boulder-strewn path for approximately 2 miles to reach the summit of Cove Mountain, with a brief stop off at Hemlock Point at 2600 feet to catch our breath and take in the vista. A few feet off the trail we will find Dragon's Tooth, a spectacular monolith that is one of the most famous rock formations in the area and worth many pictures. Once there, you'll have a difficult time realizing you're in the mountains - the entire area is white sand and you could swear the sound of the ocean is just beyond the monolith! After enjoying the summit, we begin descending on the steep and boulder strewn path. Our descent will involve ladders and a bit of scrambling, pretty typical AT hiking! Along the way we'll pass other magnificent views such as Lost Spectacles Gap, Devils Seat, Viewpoint Rock and Rawies Rest. We eventually gain the valley floor, cross VA 624, and walk a short distance on the road to the Four Pines Hostel. There you ll have the choice of camping on the grounds or sleeping inside on a cot in your sleeping bag. Plus - if you re longing for a shower, it s there and plenty of hot water! Elevation gain/loss: 1099/1210 Mileage: 6.9 DAY 5 SEPTEMBER 26, THURSDAY Leaving the Four Pines Hostel we'll say goodbye to the chickens and ducks and make our way back to our 'beloved' up and down trail. Entering the woods will by now feel quite familiar and we'll continue hiking north. Our path today takes us over several streams and up and down a series of truly 'rolling terrain'. Considering the milder terrain, our legs will think it's a rest day! Our destination tonight will be at the foot of Catawba Mountain where, tomorrow, we'll enjoy the iconic McAfee's Knob. elevation gain/loss: 393/275 Mileage: 7.9
DAY 6 SEPTEMBER 27, FRIDAY The morning brings excitement - McAfee's Knob is close by! A series of switchbacks takes us thru the boulder strewn path up to the top of Catawba Mountain and there it is--one of the most photographed spots on the AT - McAfee's Knob. An amazing 360 degree view of the surrounding countryside and just begging for lots of pictures! After spending some time taking in this magnificent spot, we'll descend from McAfee Knob passing such places as the Pig Farm Campsite, where there are no pigs, and Snack Bar Rock, where unfortunately there isn't a snack bar. Another vista awaits at Rock Haven just prior to passing by Campbell Shelter. From here we will be treated to level to slightly descending terrain for about 3.5 miles before it turns sharply uphill (of course!), this time headed to Tinker Cliffs. Tinker is a common name here (there is a Tinker Mountain and Creek, as well as Cliffs) and it comes from the legend that a number of Revolutionary War deserters hid out here and made pots and pans, and hence were named "tinkers". We will follow this rock wall for a half mile north with vista after vista after vista. After leaving the rock cliffs we encounter The Well, a natural rock hole, Lunch Box rock (of course there is no lunch), and Scorched Earth Gap. Our last night on the trail will be spent at the Lambert Meadow Shelter - a beautiful stream with many really nice campsites as well as a lovely shelter and outhouse! Hopefully we can stay awake long enough for a campfire and share some memories of the week. Elevation gain/loss: 2894/1703 Mileage: 8.4 DAY 7 SEPTEMBER 28, SATURDAY It's always bittersweet to leave our last campsite and begin our walk out of the woods. Luckily, we'll still get plenty of time to enjoy the solitude of the woods and a few more great vistas before we encounter civilization in Daleville, Va. where our shuttle awaits to transport us to our hotel. Elevation gain/loss: 200/875 Mileage: 9.4 DAY 8 SEPTEMBER 29, SUNDAY 0 miles? (What will our bodies think?!). After meeting for one last time at our hotel for a continental breakfast we will say our last 'good-byes' and those of you driving are free to leave. If you are flying out, the hotel has an airport shuttle and you can plan to fly out anytime.
ADDITIONAL TRIP INFORMATION GETTING THERE Please plan to arrive Roanoke Airport no later than 2:30pm on 9/22/2019. We will be staying at the Holiday Inn Valley View Roanoke Airport location. They have a complimentary hotel shuttle. If you would like assistance with your airline tickets we recommend contacting our travel agency, Exito Travel. Start by submitting the form you can find here: https://pay2.exitotravel.com/referral_form?affiliate_id=1090&client=1. If you prefer to call, the number is 800-855-4053; be sure to tell them you are traveling with Adventures in Good Company. Please note: If flights are booked by Exito with affiliated airlines, there is no booking fee. If booked with a non-affiliated airline, there is a $35 booking fee. ACCOMMODATIONS We will stay the first and last night in a hotel near the Roanoke Airport in Roanoke, VA at the Holiday Inn Valley View for ease of both arrival and departure. There are 2 single supplements available for these two night for an additional $170. In between there are five nights of camping. Most nights we stay in or near a shelter with varying amenities (e.g. fire pit, composting outhouses) depending on whether we are in designated wilderness or state park lands. All our camping sites have water nearby. WEATHER You can expect typical fall weather - warm days, cool nights and maybe rain in lower elevations in late September in this part of Virginia. Highs during the day will range between 72 81 with lows at nights ranging between 48 58 depending on the elevation. As with any backpacking trip, weather is good as long as our clothing/equipment is good. Always plan on cooler temperatures than normal, unexpected rain and - a few days with overcast skies (can be quite nice when backpacking across the ridges!). For this section, we do not encounter a lot of elevation change but still are in the mountains which means weather can be very changeable. TRAVEL INSURANCE WE STRONGLY RECOMMEND TRIP CANCELLATION/TRIP INTERRUPTION INSURANCE, WHICH COVERS YOUR COST IF YOU NEED TO CANCEL OR INTERRUPT YOUR TRIP for medical reasons, trip delay, lost baggage, and other unforeseen emergencies. Adventures in Good Company will send you information about travel insurance with your registration information, or you may purchase coverage through your own insurance company. In order to avoid disappointment and expense in the event that you must cancel your trip we strongly urge you to purchase some type of insurance coverage. You can also sign up for it online at Travelex Insurance. To get the best rates, use 20-0016 as your location number on the Get A Quote page.
PACKING LIST FOOTWEAR 1 pair midweight hiking boots (Remember to waterproof your boots!) 1 pair lightweight camp shoes (lightweight sandals, clogs) to wear in camp. 2 pair hiking socks: (wool or synthetic equivalent: Smartwool, Thorlo, Darn Tough) CLOTHING 1 pair comfortable, lightweight, synthetic hiking pants/zip-offs/3/4 pants/skirt 1 short sleeve technical tee-shirt. 1 lightweight long sleeved fleece or lightweight long sleeved wool shirt. 1 pair light to mid weight long underwear top and bottoms: silk, wool or synthetic equivalent 1 wide-brimmed or duck bill hat, or baseball cap for sun, rain and high fashion. 1 stocking cap, wool or fleece or a buff 1 pair lightweight gloves: wool, Capilene, or Polartec 1 rain jacket AND rain pants: a waterproof/breathable fabric like Gore-tex. Underwear Change of clothes for last evening out/travel home EQUIPMENT/ESSENTIALS 1 pair Trekking poles (required) 1 backpack: internal frame, at least 65-liter capacity OR external frame, at least 68-liter capacity 1 sleeping bag; synthetic fill or down fill, warm to 30 degrees F 1 lightweight sleeping pad: closed cell foam pad, Thermarest self-inflating pad, or Ridge Rest pad Capacity to carry 2/3 liters of water (Please see Notes on Packing List) 1 heavy-duty, extra-large garbage bag AND 2 tall white kitchen trash bags 1 rain cover for your backpack 3 or 4 stuff sacks Small headlamp with fresh batteries 2 bandannas Bowl, cup and eating utensils (not metal) Ear plugs (for a good night s sleep) Sunglasses (100% UV blocking) 3 quart and 3 gallon size Ziploc bags AGC supplies the sunscreen, TP and insect repellent as part of the group gear unless you require something specific. TOILETRIES (small everything) Toothbrush, toothpaste, dental floss, hand sanitizer, contact lens paraphernalia, sanitary supplies Lip protection with sunblock of at least SPF 15 Personal first aid/patch kit - Band-Aids, 1 safety pin, moleskin, Compeed (or blister bandages), ibuprofen, any personal medications Please note: Individuals who have had or have the potential for a severe allergic reaction to insect stings, specific foods or medications must bring an epi-pen. Please consult your physician and tell your guide. Not required but highly recommended: Short gaiters Compression sacks for your sleeping bag and clothing OPTIONAL Small journal and pen Basic compass Camera and film /memory card SMALL, lightweight pocket knife
NOTES ON PACKING Please note: If you are not familiar with any of the terms used as explanation regarding the equipment or clothing required for this trip or would like help with any item listed please let us know. Detailed Information will be sent beginning 6 months prior to your trip regarding equipment, what to look for and how to purchase. Please let us know if you need information on any item before that time. Backpack: You will need either an internal frame backpack with at least a 65 liter capacity OR an external frame with at least a 68 liter capacity. It is essential to have a backpack that fits correctly, as an ill-fitting pack can ruin your trip. While we understand wanting to borrow a pack, do not try to get by with someone else s pack that doesn t quite fit. Be sure to have your backpack fitted to you by your local outfitter whether it is a new one you purchase for the trip or one that you already have. Need help deciding on a backpack? Ask for our information guide on buying a backpack. Pack Cover: These are waterproof, usually elasticized covers designed to go over your backpack and keep both the pack and its contents dry in case of inclement weather. Pack covers are sized. If you are purchasing a pack cover be sure to either take your pack with you or know the size cover you need. Many daypacks do come with built in pack covers. An alternative to purchasing a pack cover is to use a heavy-duty, plastic bag to line your pack to protect the contents from rain you pack however will get wet using this method. Purchasing a pack cover is highly recommended. Regarding organization/packing your backpack: Several small stuff sacks (rather than one large one) are a great way to organize your gear, clothing and food. Compression sacks are highly recommended for sleeping bags and clothing. Footwear: Well-fitting, sturdy boots or trail shoes are very important to your safety and enjoyment. If you plan to buy new boots, break them in by wearing them around town and taking some short hikes before your trip. For general hiking, lightweight or midweight cordura or leather boots with a Vibram sole work well. If you have weak ankles or are recovering from an ankle injury, get boots that come above the ankle you ll find that this will give you more support in uneven or slippery terrain. Remember to waterproof your boots before the trip. Even boots billed as waterproof need to be treated with a waterproofing product. Sleeping bag: Bring a sleeping bag with either down or synthetic insulation that is rated for at least 20/30 F depending on how warm/cold you sleep. Other than temperature rating, weight and bulk are some of the factors to consider in sleeping bags. Appropriate choices for the climate we will be backpacking include Down, Waterproof Down and Synthetic. We strongly recommend using a compression sack for your sleeping bag, this decreases the amount of space your sleeping bag takes up in your pack. Clothing: The clothing listed on the packing list has been chosen for your specific trip conditions and for its versatility for layering. NO COTTON for your active wear! It should all be made from synthetic/synthetic blends, down/down blends or wool/wool blends. Layering is the most practical and efficient method of insulating the body. Several layers of varied weight materials provide better insulation than one thick Layer of clothing. Also, adding or subtracting layers allows you to adjust to the temperature at your particular level of activity. Short gaiters: are optional but highly recommended for keeping your socks clean (reducing the chance of blisters), keeping debris out of your boots (another blister preventive measure), providing another barrier between you and poison ivy and, most importantly --- if it rains they keep your socks dry and prevents wicking water down into your boots. Rain Gear: You will need a parka or jacket made of a coated nylon or a waterproof/breathable fabric like Gore-tex, HellyTech, Membrane, H2No, or Ultrex. Be sure it keeps water out. Before making this important purchase, be sure that it fits you properly. It should be large enough to fit over all your layers. In particular, the hood needs to be effective. It should shield your face from the rain and turn with your head. Movement of your arms must not interfere with the hood. Put on your daypack; can you still raise your arms? Your wind/rain pants should be comfortable, allow enough room for your layers, and permit free movement of your legs (for example, can you crouch comfortably?). Partial or full-length leg zippers are useful for easily putting your pants on over your boots. An inexpensive plastic
poncho will both leak and tear easily and is not adequate. There are many choices that range from inexpensive (example, Frog Togs/Ducs) to quite expensive. Just be sure it is meant to keep you dry. Hydration: Being able to easily access your water without assistance, so that you can drink frequently, is important to your safety and enjoyment. One method is to have a water bottle attached to your waist strap. Another option is to use a HYDRATION SYSTEM such as Camelbak, Platypus, and MSR bladder bags, which are collapsible water bags with a hose attachment that you drink from. The bags fit inside or outside your pack with the hose positioned over your shoulder so that you can access your water as you hike. Bladder bags can hold 1-3 liters of water. Personal First Aid Kit: Bring a small first aid kit with familiar medicine and first aid supplies you might need. Recommendations include the following: blister or foot remedies like moleskin, Compeed, blister bandages, or similar, a small role of duct tape (always useful!), remedies for respiratory ailments, stomach ailments, sore muscles or joints. The guides will have a first aid kit but having what you know works well for you is a good idea. Trekking Poles: Trekking poles are required for this trip. Trekking poles contribute to your safety by improving your balance and stability, and to your health by saving stress on your hips and knees. If you are not familiar with trekking poles, read this blog post that addresses the most commonly asked questions: http://blog.adventuresingoodcompany.com/blog-women-travel/bid/154714/trekking-poles-for-hiking-trips-the-4-mostcommon-questions.