Old Stoney Creek/Shamokin Falls and Rockfish Valley Trails - January 11, 2014

Emerald, John, Leon, Brian, Dan, Jeanne, David, Marit, and Iva before hiking up Old Stoney Creek Trail

Ten hard core hikers met on rainy January 11 - ready to hit the trails in rain gear and high spirits.  Hike leader, Marit Gay, and assistant, Mark Trail, had arranged a two part hike from their locale near Wintergreen to walk some of the beautiful Nellysford valley trails.  Both leaders had to work at 2:30 pm, so the intent was to hike about 6 miles on 2 sets of trails,  stop for refreshments at Bold Rock Cidery, then head back up the mountain. The rest of the hikers could linger on at the cidery as they wished.

Dan and Jeanne snackin' at Lower Shamokin Falls

The group met at AHS including Leon Gorman, Dan Ralston, Jeanne Densmore, Emerald Young, Iva Gillet, Brian Muszynski, Marit, and Mark and then drove out towards Nellysford meeting David Ledbetter and John Brandt.  First we walked the 2 mile ascent up Old Stoney Creek to Lower Shomokin Falls, which is part of the Wintergreen trail system.  We had periodic showers, but warmer temperatures and reprieves from the downpour actually made for fairly pleasant hiking.  The creek was high from all the rain providing interesting scenery, especially at the falls.  Icicles decorated some of the rocks, one of the highlights of winter.

Emerald and Marit are happy to be hiking

After the out and back, and a snack break of homemade cookies, we convened at the cars and made our way to the Rockfish Valley Trail Foundation trail head along the Rockfish River.  We had intended to hike from the Rockfish Historical Center near Spruce Creek and connect with the Rockfish River Trail, but timing did not permit this.  Marit did show the members how the system is connected via the posted area map.  We made our way for about 2 miles along the Rockfish River Trail, admiring the high water and wishing we had kayaks to play in the small rapids!
Finally, we climbed back in our cars for the mile jaunt down Rt. 151 to Bold Rock Cidery.

Brian, Iva, and others enjoying Bold Rock Cidery

Refreshments included donuts from Carpe Donut and hard cider from Bold Rock.  Guitarist, Gary Randall, was an added bonus to the festive atmosphere. Some enjoyed their brown bag lunches and cider tastings too.  We all managed to have quite a nice day, despite the rain - getting some fresh air and exercise with some good hiking companions.  Marit plans to lead a similar hike again in the spring or summer, hopefully with better weather, so check the postings.

Mark and Leon

David, Dan, and Jeanne