White Rocks Falls - January 2, 2016

submitted by Iva Gillet

     Our first hike of 2016 was a glorious, well attended 5 mile loop to White Rocks Falls off the Blue Ridge Parkway. While most hikers met at AHS; CJ Woodburn, David Crowe, Michael Seth, Ginny Barber and Nancy Handley were jumping up and down to stay warm when we arrived... it wascold and windy! We did not linger but headed off for the woods to keep warm. Brian Muszynski led the pack of 22, Bill Holman brought up the back as sweep as we headed down the Slacks Trail. We were glad to have Edna Baden, retired PATC staff director, Carol Wise, Virginia Masterson, Katherine Maus, Lee Wenzler, Debbie Wilson, Brenda Browning, and Cat McCue joining our frequent hikers Debra Fisher, Jodi Fredrickson, Dave Abdullah, Ben and Pete Fink, and Marian Styles. As we descended, the wind decreased and we stopped to take off some layers. Bill confirmed that we had lost no one (yet). We convened again before crossing the Blue Ridge Parkway, at which point our sweep Bill had decided he had had enough and hiked on the Blue Ridge Parkway back to the start. Continuing to descend, we noticed the water in the stream was impressive, thanks to recent rains. When Iva, now sweep, caught up with the group she found several folks, including Michael Seth, taking an early lunch break. But with a crack of the verbal whip, we mushed on up the climb toward the falls. Michael and Pete chose a lunch spot below the falls, and we spread out over the many rocks and limbs for lunch. We shared our food and conversation.
     Afterward, we continued our climb, taking the right turn to the base of the falls. The water was more plentiful than usual and with the sun shining brightly, it was a peaceful, mossy spot where Brian performed his yoga poses. After a brief respite, we completed the climb and straggled back to the cars. As it was only 2 PM, some dashed off for other activities, while several of us headed to Devil’s Backbone for some refreshment. While it was chilly, the sunshine and picnic tables provided a wonderful spot for further comradely before heading back. It was a perfect hike to start the new year!