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Post by Spartan on Dec 6, 2016 16:17:03 GMT -8
Hey guys! I'm thinking about going to Virginia to hike some of the Jefferson national forest on the AT and was curious what to expect there this time of year. Looking at December 28th- Jan 1st. Any suggestions on where to go exactly? I'm from Michigan so we don't get much warmer than 30 degrees this time of year. I was hoping it'll be a little warmer in Virginia. Any input would be great.
Thanks
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Post by rwtb123 on Dec 6, 2016 17:25:56 GMT -8
Hi!I use to live and hike in Va for many years.In December, the weather can be variable turning consistently cooler by January.But nothing you can't handle from the sounds of it.
Mt Rogers/Grayson Highlands is the premier and most scenic destination, but due to the higher/exposed elevations you will experience the most variable weather with the possibility of extreme conditions that time of year.Other ideas are the James River Face/Thunder Ridge Wilderness areas that straddle the George Washington/Jefferson NF border and parallel the Blue Ridge Parkway,or the Tinker Cliffs/McAfee Knob area just west of Roanoke which is a fairly gentle ridge walk with some of the most famous/photographed views of the entire AT.
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Post by Spartan on Dec 6, 2016 17:43:49 GMT -8
Thanks! I'm looking at the McAfee route now. Looks like a fairly easy hike with spectacular views! Do I need a permit/pass for this trail or to camp in the backcountry?
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Post by rwtb123 on Dec 6, 2016 18:03:40 GMT -8
No,it's national forest land so there are not a lot of rules and regulations.As I recall, there are several AT shelters along that route and a few campsites that have been established by use.I am sure you can find details on those online.But,I would avoid camping directly around either of the cliffs areas to protect them from overuse.
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Post by Spartan on Dec 6, 2016 19:06:21 GMT -8
I ran the idea by the wife and when she heard Roanoke she said H*ll no haha. American horror story ruined that but I'll make something up saying we aren't even close to there lol.
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Post by rwtb123 on Dec 6, 2016 19:10:50 GMT -8
Yea,there are a lot of sheep chasers around there,lol.
Seriously,if you decide on that hike check out the Home Place ,in nearby Catawba, for a home cooked meal...
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Post by Spartan on Dec 7, 2016 4:50:59 GMT -8
I will for sure! Thanks.
we really are considering it. Gonna plan it out this weekend and probably head that way the 28th. This will be the first December trip I've done so hopefully the weather plays along.
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