Morgan's Loop, Shamokin Falls and Gorge, Old AT - Wintergreen area, November 21, 2015

Our Gang!

     Twenty one hikers came out to hike the trails at Wintergreen Resort on a cool, clear, crisp day.  About half the group met at AHS in Charlottesville and the rest of the contingent were at the Wintergreen gate house as we arrived slightly late after 10 am.  Nobody was grumpy though, just ready to hike.  We dropped off a few shuttle cars at the Blue Ridge Overlook and drove 2 miles down Laurel Springs Drive to begin the trek at the Morgan's Loop Trail. Hike leader, Marit Anderson, warned the group that although the hike distance was only 4.4 miles, the trails at Wintergreen are steep, rocky, and slow going.  The group kept a steady pace though, enjoying the varied and beautiful scenery along the way.  First we saw the full flowing Upper Shamokin Falls (2 sets) and then continued hiking along Stoney Creek on the red blazed Shamokin Gorge Trail, which is considered a part of the Perimeter Trail.  The trails were created and are maintained by the Nature Foundation at Wintergreen, and are open to the public.  Thank you Nature Foundation.

Becky, Tom, John, David, Michael, and CJ at Upper Shamokin Falls

The group included Nancy Weiss, Carol Wise, David Crowe, CJ Woodburn, Claire Cline, Tom & Ellen Shields, Becky Birnbaum, Michael Seth, Grace Niu, John Brandt, Art Bykonen, Dianne Anderson, Bill Holman, Iva Gillet, Brian Muszynski, Tricia Neumann, Susanna Williams, Kelly O'Rourke, and Charles Staples.

Brian and CJ - don't throw her in!

     We stopped for dark chocolate and snacks along Stoney Creek and then crossed on to the Old Appalachian Trail (predates Wintergreen and relocated once the resort was built).  The Old AT took us to the western rim and allowed for open views of the Shenandoah Valley, Torry Ridge, and Sherando Lake.  Icy spots and rock formations to cross made everyone vigilant of their footing and one of the reasons Wintergreen trails are rated strenuous.  We also kept climbing with an ascent of 1,636 ft as we hiked to our final destination of Devils Knob at 3,800 feet and the Blue Ridge Overlook.  Everyone was famished by then and ready for lunch.  Chocolate chip cookies were also passed around as we admired the southwest orientation looking at the Three Ridges, the Priest, and other peaks.  Shuttle cars took drivers down to the starting point to pick up the remaining cars. Marit had to leave for work at Wintergarden Spa, but Kelly had agreed to take any people interested on an out and back trek to the Founders Overlook via the Devils Knob and White Oak Trails.  Don't think there were any takers though, folks were ready to head home or to other events.  It was a nice way to end the PATC season for Marit as she heads west for the winter.  Come late April or May she will be back though.  Much gratitude to the many wonderful leaders who hike all winter and year round.  They are a great crew!

Tom and the southwest vista

Tom, Ellen, Claire, Art, and Grace are all smiles

Art and Tricia finishing up the Old Appalachian Trail - lunch time!

 submitted by Marit Anderson