Eleven hikers enjoyed a beautiful September day including Rita Kieffer, Emerald Young, Katherine Maus, Brad Young, Kelly O'Rourke, CJ Woodburn, Dan Ralston, Dave Borszich, John Brandt, Mark Perschel, and hike leader, Marit Gay.
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| Kelly, Katherine, Rita, Emerald, John, and CJ at Lookout Rock |
We began the approximately 8 mile hike at Slacks Overlook on the Blue Ridge Parkway, milepost 20, taking the Slacks Trail to the Torry Ridge Trail. This was a nice ridge line descent toward Sherando Lake following into a short section of the Blue Loop Trail. Fortunately co-leader, Mark Perschel, was able to steer us the correct way and then join the steep Dam Trail to reach the Lakeside Trail to make our way along the lake to the beach and picnic area. Sherando Lake Recreation Area is in the Pedlar Ranger District of the George Washington National Forest and has been a local favorite for generations since 1936 providing swimming, hiking, and camping. The 25 acre spring-fed lake enticed John, Brad, CJ, and Marit to take a dip during lunch.
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| CJ is refreshed! John and Brad swim to the island |
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| Emerald and Dave relax by the waterfront |
Others sought shade in the beautiful, native stone and timber blend shelter built by the Civilian Conservation Corps to partake their meal.
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| Katherine, Rita, and Kelly eating in the shelter |
At 1 pm we divided into two groups to allow those needing to return sooner to resume their climb back up the mountain via the Blue Loop Trail back up to Torry Ridge Trail ending back at the Slacks Overlook. An added feature to the day was an invitation to take a trek to Waynesboro to hear PATC member, Barbara Martin, sing with the Liz Barnes Trio at The Gateway venue. CJ, Mark, and Marit were treated to a delightful evening of blues and jazz. Overall a wonderful day in the Blue Ridge Mountains and Shenandoah Valley!
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| Dan, Rita, Mark, Kelly, and Katherine ready for the return hike |
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