Torry Ridge Trail/Sherando Lake/White Rock Gap Hike - June 11, 2016

Claire Cline, David Crowe, John Brandt, Katharine Maus, Lee Wenzler, Susanna Williams, Tony Alimenti, Dan Funkhouser, Megan Davis, and John Sinclair once we got to Sherando Lake

Marit Anderson (leader) with the gang on the way down- Sherando Lake Overlook

     Hot and humid - perfect day to spend hiking down from the Blue Ridge Parkway to Sherando Lake.  Eleven hikers united at White Rock Gap parking area and descended via the White Rock Gap Trail to Slacks Trail with a big push down Torry Ridge.  We saw a toad, a small snake, mountain laurel still in bloom, and lots of butterflies. We skirted on the Lakeside Trail and ended up beachside on a patch of shaded grass.  A number of the group took a refreshing, cool swim in the lake as we ate our lunches and chocolate chip cookies.  Since it was Free National Park Day we had many folks sharing the recreation area...glad so many were out to enjoy the beginning of summer vacations. The return trip for most was up the White Rock Gap trail, as well as some hikers walking the lake trails as they waited for a shuttle.  We reconvened at the parkway and three members went to Devils Backbone Brewery to partake in a much wanted beer. The mileage ended up being quite a bit more than the estimated 7.5+, with total closer to 10+, but the hikers did not seem too upset with Marit as many of them are training for upcoming treks in England, Glacier National Park, the Alps, and the Colorado Trail.  Thanks for being so understanding...everyone got lots of exercise and fresh air!

 submitted by Marit Anderson