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Andy Wilgruber wants to take a closer look |
Twelve hikers and sweet dog, Bailey with owner, Leon Gorman joined hike
leader, Marit Gay, on a pleasant June day to hike the White Rock Falls
Trail and the Upper Sherando Lake spur. Upon meeting at milepost 18.5 on
the Blue Ridge Parkway it was decided to break up the hike into two
sections, so as to allow those wanting a longer hike to continue down to
Sherando Lake after the White Rock Falls loop. We first began with a
descent down White Rock Gap Trail to connect to Slacks Trail. From here
we continued on to the 4.7 mile White Rock Falls Trail. The "White
Rock" derives from the abundant quartz found in the area. Views of
"The Priest" were also much admired. Full streams made for double
cascading falls to entertain us during our leisurely lunch and "chubby
chews" added a sweet ending to the meal. After lunch with continued on
the trail making our way back to the parking lot. A group of six
waited for the remaining hikers and a very tired Bailey. From here
Marit, Michael, Karen, Kelly, Emily Berry, Brian Muszynski made their
way down the White Rock Gap Trail to do a 5 mile out-and-back to Upper
Sherando Lake. Kayakers, fishermen, and families were also enjoying the
lake once we got there. A quick snack replenished our energy as we
climbed back up the mountain to the parking area. Seven members of the
clan including Bill Holman and Iva Gillett met up at Bold Rock Cider House to enjoy end of the day
refreshments. Everyone seemed to have a good time and we were happy to
be out in the woods on such a beautiful day!
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Rich Bard, Lindsay Brown, Briana Taylor, Kelly O'Rourke, Karen Ramsey, Michael Seth |