Lewis Peak Hike - August 10, 2019

Lewis Peak is touted as "a majestic summit in Shenandoah's southern district with spectacular views. The route is moderate and traverses rolling terrain. There are not lengthy ascents or descents, so its' a good choice for anyone looking for a longer hike devoid of tough climbs." Marit Anderson, hike leader for the day, chose this hike because August can be very hot...so a moderate hike could be enjoyed by all.  Nonetheless, we were blessed by an incredibly beautiful day with temperatures so cool at our meetup site at Afton mountain, that most of us were donning sweatshirts and jackets. The day warmed up to a perfect mid-seventy degrees in the mountains and a slight breeze.
The group of happy hikers included Anne Colgate, Claire Cline, Larry Cutler, Janet Smalley, Susanna Williams, Anna Castle, Ann Hays, Jocelyn Prostko, Joe Simaid, Mike Hammer, and Nancy Handley, who assisted as sweep for the day. The route began at Brown's Gap in SNP and proceeded along the Appalachian Trail to Big Run Loop, Rockytop Trail, Lewis Peak Trail, and finally up to Lewis Peak summit.  On the summit we had lunch and homemade chocolate chip cookies enjoying the view of Massanutten, Rocky Mountain, and the Shenandoah Valley. Ann Hays pointed out the interesting worm hole fossils in the rocks. We returned along the same route with Claire Cline, Anne Colgate, and Anna Castle being our naturalists for the day, pointing out wild flowers including Whorl Asters, Heal-all, Goldenrod, and Mullein. Wildlife excitement for the day was a large bear crossing the Skyline Drive on our ride north and a lost dog zipping past our group, most likely looking for his master. Our hike clocked in at 9.2 miles, 1,114 ascent, and a total of 4 hours and 40 minutes.  As we departed, a group was planning contra dancing for later and four of us met up at ProReNata Brewery for suds and corn hole games.  Great day in the mountains for sure!

submitted by Marit Anderson