Old Rag - October 27, 2012

Reported by Iva Gillet

The end of October can be prime time for hiking in Central Virginia, and this day was no exception. We were fortunate to have none of the predicted rain, though clouds may have kept less dedicated hikers away. However, the hike up and down the backside of Old Rag did bring out 13 enthusiastic hikers. A special guest this day was my Dad, Sherlock Gillet, who was visiting from Maryland and was eager to see the view from Old Rag that we Virginians all rave about. Also hiking were Bev and Pete Fink, David Ledbetter, Paige Madison, Barb Wilson, Bill Holman, and Karen Ramsey. Upon arriving at the parking area we were met by Ken Moss, John Shannon, Marian Styles, and Briana Taylor, so our hearty group of 13 began the gradual ascent up Old Rag along the Berry Hollow Fire Road.

Even this remote and far less utilized parking lot was full this day, as so many were eager to get into the mountains and enjoy the end of the autumn glory. Up we went pausing occasionally for breaks to catch our breath and enjoy the beauty. As weclimbed the trail to the summit, and the trail narrowed from its former fire road width after the shelter, it was clear we were swimming against the tide. As this is the path taken by circuit hikers when they descend Old Rag, we met hikers of all ages who were glowing with the exhilaration that comes from the strenuous climb and jaw-dropping view. We threaded our way to the summit, gathering for lunch on our customary rock looking toward Hawksbill and the Skyline Drive. We enjoyed our sustenance and were treated to cookies, chocolate, and John’s delicious cake as a reward for our perseverance.

It was crowded at the top as often in the Fall on a lovely day, and despite the clouds that had been threatening us, the view was distant and clouds high, providing us the awe hat commanding vistas inspire. We packed up our goods and retraced our steps, now moving with the crowds. Not in a hurry, we descended continuing to soak in the natural beauty. With other Saturday night obligations, Karen, Barb, Paige, John, Marian and Briana headed back to Charlottesville. Upon completion of our 5.5 mile route, the other half of us continued to Ducard Vineyard for wine tasting and music on the patio a few miles from Old     Rag. This boutique winery provided a post hike treat for wine tasters Bev, Pete, Ken, David, and Iva. YUM! We enjoyed a great selection of wines prior to our return. We were fortunate to have had a day where the weather cooperated, the views were vast, the leaves were showy, and the wine inspired. It doesn’t get better than this!