Hiking a Section of the AT in Virginia

Dudes! and Dudettes! The 'Mysterious One' and I took a 6 day backpacking excursion along the Appalachian Trail that began on the 20th and ended on the 26th, with about 13 miles on the Virginia Creeper returning us back to Damascus. The forest of middle Appalachia were magnificent, often crowded with Frazier Firs with the ground covered in various ferns. On several days we passed through dense patches of Blue Berries and Black Berries and feasted as we walked. Many flowers were still blooming including some rodo's.

Our walk began with a shuttle from Damascus piloted by "Just Bill" and "D-O-G", the drivers trail name and his furry friend who "Just Bill" says does not like to be referred to as a dog. He also told us that he was given his trail name during a conversation with author John Molloy several years ago.

We were extremely lucky with the weather, as for the first four days we heard thunder and saw rain often on distant mountains, and then it rained. The fifth day was saturated with rain and thunderstorms; sometimes dangerous, with frequent lighting and strong winds on ridge lines. We were careful not to hike along the tops of mountains or open fields during these storms. Met some good folks along the way including the "Handyman" from Wisconsin, and the "Mad-patter", from South Carolina.

The terrain was difficult at times though very doable for the fit hiker, with some great shelters through this section maintained, I believe, by the Mount Rogers Appalachian Trail Club. All of the shelters we stayed in or near had privies. The Grayson Highlands were awesome! See the ponies in the picture? The 'Mysterious One', noticed that we were "probably gonna go over that mountain over there", pointing to what turned out a day later to be correct and was the highpoint in the Grayson's. Not far after the Highland's we came to a shelter, Thomas Knob, with an awesome view behind it looking south. What a deal folks, hiking with a friend. One I hope to continue soon. Peace