Wintergreen Hike - March 22, 2014

 On the Old Appalachian Trail with Brad, Kelly, Grace in front; Leon, David, Bev, Dave, Michael on second row; Iva, Tom, John, Pete, Susanna, Mike on last row

     March 22 was a window of time between a snow storm earlier in the week and another coming.  Fifteen eager hikers were happy to get out on the trails of Wintergreen Resort to enjoy some of the views and get a cardiovascular workout.  Just two days earlier the trails were filled with snow, but on this day temperatures were fairly warm.  Sun filtered by clouds made for some good hiking.

     Marit Gay was the hike leader and she was joined by Brad Young, Kelly O'Rourke, Grace N., Leon Gorman, David Crowe, Bev & Pete Fink, Dave Borsch, Michael Seth, Iva Gillet, Tom Schultz, John Brandt, Susanna Williams, and Mike Smith. After dropping off some cars at the Blue Ridge Overlook the group shuttled the remainder cars as they descended down Laurel Springs Drive. The hikers began their trek on the Upper Shamokin Gorge Trail as Stoney Creek gurgled in the near distance. We made our way up to connect to the Old Appalachian Trail.  The path skirted west of the mountain allowing us to see views of the Shenandoah Valley, Torry Ridge, and Sherando Lake Recreation Area. Steady uphill climbing with steeper and rockier sections made the day fairly strenuous, although our overall mileage was only shy of four miles at lunch and a total of 7+ miles for the day.  We stopped for a snack on an outcrop of rocks and continued to Blue Ridge Overlook for lunch.  The expansive vista of the Priest and Three Ridges was admired by all.  Homemade cookies, fudge and assortment of Bold Rock Cider and Fat Tire Ales topped off the meal. 

     After lunch four hikers left to return to Charlottesville, but the remainder went on to hike another 3.2 miles on the Devils Knob Trail and Pond Hollow Trail.  Marit skipped out a little early to go to work at Wintergarden Spa, but Kelly and Iva were happy to take the leadership roles. Another day of hiking before the next pending snow.  Winter is not over yet!

Blue Ridge Overlook - our lunch spot