Rockfish Gap/AT South Hike - January 10, 2015

 submitted by Marit Anderson

Front: Brian, Remi, Scott, Iva, CJ, Dan, Jeanne, Leon, Anne, Tia, Sunny- Way back: Dave, David

Remi resting

It was 16 degrees when we met at Albemarle High School, but that did not stop fourteen hikers and one dog from heading out to Rockfish Gap for an out and back 7 mile hike on the Appalachian Trail south towards the cabin ruins (and Paul C. Wolf Shelter for a few of the clan). Hike leader Marit Anderson was joined by Leon Gorman, Tia Scott, Sunny Choi, Brian Muszynski, Jeanne Densmore, Dan Ralston, Iva Gillet and Remi the pooch from Charlottesville.  At Afton we united with Scott Martin, CJ Woodburn, Anne Colgate, Dave Borszich, and David Crowe. 

Temperatures rose to 21 degrees and once we started hiking fingers and toes warmed up.  The fairly moderate elevation change of 960 feet was suitable for all.  There were a few small icy stream crossings, but overall the going was steady.  At the ruins we stopped for snacks of chubby chews, dark chocolate, warm and cold drinks, and bites of our lunches.  Anne and Dave continued on to Paul C. Wolfe Shelter making it a 10 mile trek, but the rest of the group headed back to the starting point at Rockfish Gap.  Tia was proud of her first hike going 7 miles - and strong.  Remi was happy too!

After our active morning a contingent of the group went to Afton Winery to finish our lunches and partake in the delicious wines. It was a fine way to spend a cold, winter day.

Afton Winery had a cozy room to enjoy our meal