Thru-hiking the Allegheny Trail?

[Rufous Sided Towhee]

I realize that Whiteblaze is for AT hikers, I apolgize if this post is OT here. But I have been able to find barely any info on thru-hiking the Allegheny Trail on the net and was hoping maybe someone here could help.

I did find one website: http://www.wvnet.edu/wvsta/ but info there is scant, and there are no dates on it, for all I know the website hasn't been updated in years. They do advertise a trail guide (3rd edition), but again, with no publication date listed, there is no way to know if it is current.

Ebay has a very old hiker guide for 8 bucks, but descriptions of the booklet include the term "crudely made", or something. :eek:

No luck on trailjournals.com either. :-?

What I am hoping to find is info on current trail conditions, current maps, shelters, re-supply points, etc. And basically if this trail is safely do-able in under a month for a lone hiker. I hope to thru-hike it this spring (2007). What I'd REALLY love to find is a trip report from someone who has done it end to end recently.

Any help or advice would be great, thanks!

RST

[MOWGLI]

I realize that Whiteblaze is for AT hikers, I apolgize if this post is OT here. But I have been able to find barely any info on thru-hiking the Allegheny Trail on the net and was hoping maybe someone here could help.

I did find one website: http://www.wvnet.edu/wvsta/ but info there is scant, and there are no dates on it, for all I know the website hasn't been updated in years. They do advertise a trail guide (3rd edition), but again, with no publication date listed, there is no way to know if it is current.

Ebay has a very old hiker guide for 8 bucks, but descriptions of the booklet include the term "crudely made", or something. :eek:

No luck on trailjournals.com either. :-?

What I am hoping to find is info on current trail conditions, current maps, shelters, re-supply points, etc. And basically if this trail is safely do-able in under a month for a lone hiker. I hope to thru-hike it this spring (2007). What I'd REALLY love to find is a trip report from someone who has done it end to end recently.

Any help or advice would be great, thanks!

RST

RST:

:welcome The West Virginia Scenic Trails Association has a very good map set that they sell. It is spiral bound. I recently sent Hammock Hanger my copy in prep for her upcoming Great Eastern Trail hike.

Suggest you contact WVSTA. They are the folks who build and maintain this trail.

Good luck!

[Rufous Sided Towhee]

RST:

:welcome The West Virginia Scenic Trails Association has a very good map set that they sell. It is spiral bound. I recently sent Hammock Hanger my copy in prep for her upcoming Great Eastern Trail hike.

Suggest you contact WVSTA. They are the folks who build and maintain this trail.

Good luck!
Thanks, Mowgli!

Their site was the one I found, my concern is that the link to their guide here: http://www.wvnet.edu/wvsta/guide.html gives no publication dates. Glad to hear it is a good guide. I also emailed them off that site and asked some other questions.

When is HH doing her hike? I've heard that the ALT is sparsely populated and that it's not uncommon to do the entire 330 mile thru w/o seeing a single other hiker.

[emerald]

:welcome drink-your-teeeee che;)!

[MOWGLI]

Thanks, Mowgli!

Their site was the one I found, my concern is that the link to their guide here: http://www.wvnet.edu/wvsta/guide.html gives no publication dates. Glad to hear it is a good guide. I also emailed them off that site and asked some other questions.

When is HH doing her hike? I've heard that the ALT is sparsely populated and that it's not uncommon to do the entire 330 mile thru w/o seeing a single other hiker.

You're :welcome. HH should be up that way sometime in July. A class of 2000 hiker named Camo has hiked the trail. maybe someone here knows how to contact him. WB member Hikerhead lives near the southern terminus. I plan to get out and hike some with him soon.

PS: The guide costs about $25.

[Hammock Hanger]

I hiked a small piece a few years back with Hikerhead (aka Hokey Pokey). It was indeed a very quiet trail but we enjoyed it. I look forward to hiking it again this year. When are you hiking?? Sue/Hammock Hanger

[Minerva]

My information is 6 years old but, I hiked the ALT in the spring of 2000.

I'm used to data book style hiking. Since the ALT didn't have a data book, I created one using the 2nd edition guide book (I think the 3rd edition came out in 2002 or 2003) and the webpage updates that were available at the time. This condensed the 4 sections into an 11 page mini booklet.

"Sparrowhawk", Ray Ward, hiked this in 2003 and at one time had a very good journal on TJ.

In 2000, resupply options went like this, and are most likely somewhat outdated. There's a good chance the Post Offices are still there, not sure about the meal, lodging and groceries for short term resupply. Maybe someone else who lives there can chime in.

Key PO Post Office G Groceries M Meals L Lodging

Mile Point/Miles Between (N to S)

8.6m/0.0 US Rte 48/Old State 73 Bruceton Mills, WV PO 26525, M

30m/21.4m WV Rte 26 Albright, WV PO 26519, Exxon Gas Station/Deli, Groceries

39m/9m WV Rte 7 Terra Alta, WV PO 26764

53.9m/14.9m Rowlesburg, WV PO 26425 G, M

90m/36.1m WV 32 Thomas, WV PO 26292 G, L

93.3m/3.3m Blackwater Falls State Park C, M, L, Laundry, showers

96m/2.7m Davis, WV PO 26260 G, M, L, Laundromat, Outfitters

106.1/10.1m Red Creek, WV PO 26289

141.2/35.1m Glady, WV PO 26268 G

163.9m/22.7m US Rt 250 Durbin, WV PO 26462 G, M, L, Laundromat, Train Rides

184.9m/21m Cass, WV PO 24927 M, L Train Rides; Dunmore WV G, L

210.8m/25.9m Huntersville, WV G

263.3m/52.5m White Sulphur Springs, WV PO 24986 G, M, L, Outfitter, Laundromat, showers at Truckstop on outskirts of town

This Trail was easy walking and provided lots of solitude. We saw perhaps 4 other hikers the entire Trail. Besure to ride the train in Cass or Durbin if you have the extra time! Feel free to email me if you have any questions.

MrsGorp

[Hikerhead]

You're :welcome. HH should be up that way sometime in July. A class of 2000 hiker named Camo has hiked the trail. maybe someone here knows how to contact him. WB member Hikerhead lives near the southern terminus. I plan to get out and hike some with him soon.

Pick a date..I'm ready when you are.

"I hiked a small piece a few years back with Hikerhead (aka Hokey Pokey). It was indeed a very quiet trail but we enjoyed it. I look forward to hiking it again this year. When are you hiking??" Sue/Hammock Hanger

This is a fun section to hike. I'll send Mowgli16 up ahead to see if anyone is home at the house. Mowgli16, you'll enjoy this. Hopefully we'll see some "hawks" from the observatory.

"Sparrowhawk", Ray Ward, hiked this in 2003 and at one time had a very good journal on TJ." Minerva

I thought you had a jounal on TJ of this hike, I know I've seen it somewhere. Maybe that was Sparrowhawk's journal that I'm thinking of.

[Booley]

Minerva thanks for the info. I've been wanting to do this trail as well since I don't have time to do the whole AT. I have done some sections of the ALT but would like to thru hike it. Guides say it's 330 miles long. How much is not completed, 70 or so miles? RST, what town are you from?

[MOWGLI]

Pick a date..I'm ready when you are.


I'm waiting on a new tent (MSR Missing Link) and a possible appointment in Abingdon in January. I'll be in touch.

[Hammock Hanger]

Stay out of people's bedrooms......:)

[Hammock Hanger]

Mowgli: How many of 330 miles of ALT is part of the GET??

[Hikerhead]

Well you did knock first. BTW, they have rerouted the trail around this house. Remember the hard time we had trying to find the trail thru the bulldozed trees. I need to go find my old pictures.

[Hammock Hanger]

Answer to my own question is 60 miles.

[Hikerhead]

Both of these folks below are fine people. Section 1 is the northern most part of the trail. Section 4 is the southern part. Sue, you know I have you covered for the shuttle on the missing 20 miles.

Elsa Nadler (enadler@hsc.wvu.edu)is coordinator for section 1 and can be reached at 304/599-4917 (home) or 304/293-3546 (109 Oakview Drive, Morgantown, WV 26505).

Doug Wood, (chingwe@peoplepc.com) coordinator for section 4. Doug can be reached at 304/466-2724 (HC 65, Box 182, Forest Hill, WV 24935-9261).

[Kerosene]

Sue, you know I have you covered for the shuttle on the missing 20 miles.Such a gentleman. ;)

[Hikerhead]

Naa, just a Virginian. :)

[stumpknocker]

Naa, just a Virginian. :)

Yeah, that AND a friend. :)

[Hammock Hanger]

You are a gentleman through and through and you know it.

[Hikerhead]

Well thanks. <BLUSHING>

[emerald]

If you have not already experienced it, you must visit Cass Scenic Railroad State Park (http://www.cassrailroad.com/) and ride one of the Shea locomotives to Bald Knob. It's a one-of-a-kind experience!

Before your visit, read Tumult on the Mountain (http://www.patc.net/history/archive/virg_fst.html)by Roy B. Clarkson who was born and raised at Cass and later became a professor of biology at WVU where I had the pleasure of being one of his students. His book is about logging the remote, mountainous region of West Virginia including Pocahontas County.

[Rufous Sided Towhee]

I hiked a small piece a few years back with Hikerhead (aka Hokey Pokey). It was indeed a very quiet trail but we enjoyed it. I look forward to hiking it again this year. When are you hiking?? Sue/Hammock Hanger
Hi, HH! I have a very flexible schedule, so right now my only plan time-wise is to be on the trail when it starts to look/smell/feel like spring or at least the start of spring. Not sure when that is up here. I'm thinking of spending most of a month thru-ing the ALT in a leisurely way. How about you? What piece did you do in the past?

[Rufous Sided Towhee]

If you have not already experienced it, you must visit Cass Scenic Railroad State Park (http://www.cassrailroad.com/) and ride one of the Shea locomotives to Bald Knob. It's a one-of-a-kind experience!

Definately on my list! The ALT goes right thru Cass, it looks like. I vaguely recall there being a B&B or motel near the train depot too, that would be a great stopover.

[Rufous Sided Towhee]

Minerva thanks for the info. I've been wanting to do this trail as well since I don't have time to do the whole AT. I have done some sections of the ALT but would like to thru hike it. Guides say it's 330 miles long. How much is not completed, 70 or so miles? RST, what town are you from?
Wow, thanks everyone! This is all great info!!

Booley I'm in the Morgantown area and I know a few people in towns near where I think the ALT goes. Am totally excited about it going by Thomas where the Purple Fiddle is. That will definately be a place I'll be doing a zero or two!

I am also interested in if it's actually complete right now. I keep reading stuff about the end up near Cooper's Rock or Cheat Canyon area being closed or not done or something, but with no dates on anything, it's hard to know what the current status is...

I'm def hiking Northbound, will start from Pearisburg and take the AT up to the trailhead on Peters Mountain then bang a left onto the ALT. Gettin excited already!

[MOWGLI]

Definately on my list! The ALT goes right thru Cass, it looks like.

It most certainly does! The Greenbrier River Rail Trail also terminates in Cass. That's a great trail.

[Hikerhead]

Little Bear. Do you know where exactly the GET leaves the ATL and where does it go?

[MOWGLI]

Little Bear. Do you know where exactly the GET leaves the ATL and where does it go?

Tom Johnson of PATC sent me an email today proviing an update on the link between the Allegheny & Tuscarora Trails. Either he or Lloyd McAskill knows that info - stone cold. I do not have it at my disposal, but it is easily accessible.

Only 7 miles of new trail must be constructed to complete this 150+ mile link, and that route is flagged and walkable.

Ask me again in 2 weeks, and I should have an answer for you!

[emerald]

With a screen name like rufous-sided towhee and a residence near Morgantown, you likely already have visited Core Arboretum (http://www.as.wvu.edu/biology/facility/arboretum/article/article.html) maintained by WVU's Department of Biology. I first came to know and love it as a student at WVU and it remains one of my favorite places anywhere.

[Bloodroot]

The Greenbrier River Rail Trail also terminates in Cass. That's a great trail.

Have you done the Greenbrier River Trail end to end?

[MOWGLI]

Have you done the Greenbrier River Trail end to end?

No, but my friend Hunter has. He's a fixture at Trail Days and The Gathering. Maybe someone here knows him. I don't think he's part of WB.

I've only walked a couple of miles of the trail near Cass, but I've seen photos of the whole trail taken in October. Sweet!

[Booley]

I've ridden the GRT in a day but it was a whirlwind. Would like to walk it leisurely with a fishing pole. A gorgeous trail from Cass to Caldwell, 78 miles and drops 721 feet heading south. Also a good stretch of river to canoe too. Rufous, I've spent a little time in Thomas. It would be a good place to zero!

[MOWGLI]

I've ridden the GRT in a day but it was a whirlwind. Would like to walk it leisurely with a fishing pole. A gorgeous trail from Cass to Caldwell, 78 miles and drops 721 feet heading south. Also a good stretch of river to canoe too. Rufous, I've spent a little time in Thomas. It would be a good place to zero!

Most of my time along the GRT was actually spent walking the creek and looking for old apple trees bearing fruit in the woods. Twas a good day. Wish I had my pole with me.

[Booley]

Hey Mowgli16, which section of the GRT were you on? Also thanks for the comment on my photo at Grayson Highlands. That was my first AT section and an awesome trip! I've done lots of hiking in WV (extensive hiking in Dolly Sods, Otter Creek and Cranberry Wilderness), but until recently haven't sectioned anything on the AT. I'm hooked now! Looking for my next fix in the Companion now...

[MOWGLI]

Hey Mowgli16, which section of the GRT were you on?

Just the northernmost couple of miles. I spent a weekend in Cass with some members from West Virginia Scenic Trails Association. It was their Wild Foods weekend, so we were foraging for some eats along the GRT.

You're :welcome regarding the photo. I can't remember the pic, but I try and comment favorably on the ones I like. :sun

[MOWGLI]

For those on this list, I want to recommend a Southern Ruck in the fall in Cass, WV. You have the Allegheny Trail, the Greenbriar River Trail, and the Railroad for folks to take a ride on. There are plenty of accomodations, and the prices are very reasonable. Anyone in WV or the nearby environs think that's a winning idea?

[Hikerhead]

Not a bad idea at all. Plus you have the Green Bank Radio Observatory which is a very interesting place to visit. http://www.gb.nrao.edu/

[Booley]

Cass would be another place to zero and catch the Cass Scenic Railroad. Just up the road from the area to board the train, there is a great Minnenite store with the best baked goods. Definitely a good place to stock up for the next section on the ALT.

[Bloodroot]

No, but my friend Hunter has. He's a fixture at Trail Days and The Gathering. Maybe someone here knows him. I don't think he's part of WB.

I've only walked a couple of miles of the trail near Cass, but I've seen photos of the whole trail taken in October. Sweet!

Just wondering....I've done it several times (7) and have never heard anyone ever mention it before on here. Great views in the fall like you said, not a bit of incline (rail trail), and plenty of water sources (highly recommend filtering the mountain runoffs), food sources aren't good---just a couple gas stations off the trail along the way.

[Bloodroot]

For those on this list, I want to recommend a Southern Ruck in the fall in Cass, WV. You have the Allegheny Trail, the Greenbriar River Trail, and the Railroad for folks to take a ride on. There are plenty of accomodations, and the prices are very reasonable. Anyone in WV or the nearby environs think that's a winning idea?

I am from Lewisburg. It's a great idea. In addition there is alot nearby things to check out, especially civil war history (of you are into that), and some of the geological aspects (Beartown).

[Bloodroot]

Also just a thought, Snowshoe has some really good hiking/views and is close to Cass.

[Hammock Hanger]

For those on this list, I want to recommend a Southern Ruck in the fall in Cass, WV. You have the Allegheny Trail, the Greenbriar River Trail, and the Railroad for folks to take a ride on. There are plenty of accomodations, and the prices are very reasonable. Anyone in WV or the nearby environs think that's a winning idea?


I would be in for this. I might even be able to get the hubby to come along, he loves trains.

Have to make sure it does not run to close to the BMT get together. Or if it were just one weekend away I could find some woods to hike in between the two... would save on 2 drives north. (Always thinking of a way to get a hike in.:) )

[Rufous Sided Towhee]

For those on this list, I want to recommend a Southern Ruck in the fall in Cass, WV. You have the Allegheny Trail, the Greenbriar River Trail, and the Railroad for folks to take a ride on. There are plenty of accomodations, and the prices are very reasonable. Anyone in WV or the nearby environs think that's a winning idea?

Count me in for sure! I will have finished my thru by then and it will be great to share ALT stories with others in the area.

Great idea! :)

[Rufous Sided Towhee]

With a screen name like rufous-sided towhee and a residence near Morgantown, you likely already have visited Core Arboretum (http://www.as.wvu.edu/biology/facility/arboretum/article/article.html) maintained by WVU's Department of Biology. I first came to know and love it as a student at WVU and it remains one of my favorite places anywhere.
I haven't had the pleasure yet, since I'm a recent transplant here. But it's on my list of awesome things about WV that I am looking forward to experiencing. Thanks for the link!

[Booley]

For those on this list, I want to recommend a Southern Ruck in the fall in Cass, WV.

That's a great idea! I'll be there!

Quote from Bloodroot
I am from Lewisburg.

That's a great town. I always said if I didn't live in Fayetteville, I would live in Lewisburg. I have family there. There's just a few more outdoor opportunities in my town, rock climbing, whitewater rafting, mountain biking, oh, and hiking!

[Hikerhead]

I think the Southern and Northern Rucks have been established for a couple of years now and I would dought that the regulars for those events would want to have it moved to a new location. So on that thought, why not start a Mid Atlantic Ruck, say around 2nd week of November or there abouts. Just thinking out loud.

[Hammock Hanger]

Hi, HH! I have a very flexible schedule, so right now my only plan time-wise is to be on the trail when it starts to look/smell/feel like spring or at least the start of spring. Not sure when that is up here. I'm thinking of spending most of a month thru-ing the ALT in a leisurely way. How about you? What piece did you do in the past?

I believe it was from the WV border south to Pearisburg. The trail actually ended up on the mountain but we hiked on into Pearisburg.

I will probably be on the ALT this summer late Jun/early July.

Enjoy your hike.

[Rufous Sided Towhee]

I believe it was from the WV border south to Pearisburg. The trail actually ended up on the mountain but we hiked on into Pearisburg.

I will probably be on the ALT this summer late Jun/early July.

Enjoy your hike.
Yeah, I've seen the sign at the trailhead on Peters Mountain about a day's hike north of Pearisburg along the AT.

I'll prob be done w/my thru by the end of May. I plan to do a detailed trail journal and also possibly write an article about the trip. Will post here once my trailjournal is up and has some entries in it.

Happy Hiking!

[Hammock Hanger]

Yeah, I've seen the sign at the trailhead on Peters Mountain about a day's hike north of Pearisburg along the AT.

I'll prob be done w/my thru by the end of May. I plan to do a detailed trail journal and also possibly write an article about the trip. Will post here once my trailjournal is up and has some entries in it.

Happy Hiking!

I'll be looking forward to reading from libraries along the trail. HH

[Rufous Sided Towhee]

Great news...the folks at the West Virginia Scenic Trails Association have been awesome. They have emailed me tons of info, including names and contact info for each of the four section coordinators. :)

And, I am meeting the Section 1 (northernmost section) coordinator for lunch in Morgantown this tuesday!! I will be able to buy the most recent Trail Guide direct from her over lunch. :sun

Huge thumbs-up to the WVSTA!

[Hikerhead]

That's fantastic!:clap

[Hammock Hanger]

Great news...the folks at the West Virginia Scenic Trails Association have been awesome. They have emailed me tons of info, including names and contact info for each of the four section coordinators. :)

And, I am meeting the Section 1 (northernmost section) coordinator for lunch in Morgantown this tuesday!! I will be able to buy the most recent Trail Guide direct from her over lunch. :sun

Huge thumbs-up to the WVSTA!

be sure to share...

[Rufous Sided Towhee]

Things are progressing nicely on my preparation for the thru. I did indeed meet Elsa Nadler, the Section 1 coordinator, in Morgantown last week. She was nifty, and a fount of great info. I purchased the hiking guide and maps from her as well, thank you Elsa!

A few days later I was up near the WV/PA border and scouted out the northern terminus of the ALT. It's mostly country-road walking, but pictureque and very well-blazed (by Elsa herself, I discovered).

Oddly, neither the hiking guide nor the WVSTA offers an overview map of the entire trail, so I have created one myself. Using the WVSTA's topos, I have mapped the route on street altas and now have an overview map complete with lat/long coords for all major points of the trail. I will be glad to share my maps with the hiking community.

Well, that's the update. Spring's getting closer every day! :clap

RST

[Pennsylvania Rose]

I'd never heard of the ALT until this Thanksgiving when I stayed with my parents at Blackwater Falls State Park. It sounds like an awesome walk. I'd love to see the overview map, RST. If you resupply in Davis, there's a great pizza place on the main street.

[thecaptain]

I live near the southern end of the Allegheny Trail just north of Pine swamp shelter...It would be my pleasure to shuttle hikers from or to Pearisburg from my house.....phone 540-626-5409 or email mamaspicphotography@hughes.net

[Rufous Sided Towhee]

For anyone interested, here is my first rough draft of the Allegheny Trail overview map. The final version will, of course, have all of the proper map elements, like scale, legend, north arrow, etc etc.

Here is it: http://www.whiteblaze.net/forum/vbg/showimage.php?i=14403&c=553

Note the missing section to the south, this is the part that the WVSTA cautions is not done yet. Apparently there is a shuttle available, more on that when I get the info.

I also plan to produce an overview map for each of the four sections, and those will include lat/long data for the key points along the trail.

[Rufous Sided Towhee]

I live near the southern end of the Allegheny Trail just north of Pine swamp shelter...It would be my pleasure to shuttle hikers from or to Pearisburg from my house.....phone 540-626-5409 or email mamaspicphotography@hughes.net

Awesome, thanks for the info!

[Bloodroot]

If anyone has any questions on the Greenbrier River Trail section (i.e. resupply, lodging, places to stop and visit etc)... please feel free to ask.

[emerald]

This thread started good and keeps getting better. It's one of my favorites now active. Let's keep it positive and keep adding to it. West Virginia is a great place populated by a whole lot of good folks.

[Hammock Hanger]

I'm going to get out some of the maps that were sent to me and find out exactly what piece of the ALT I will be on. Then I will know who to contact... Not that I'll need help or anything :)

[emerald]

America's best-kept secret, come and see!

--from a TV commericial, featuring Kathy Mattea at Seneca Rocks, when I was a student at WVU. She was an engineering student there and a good one, I heard, before getting other ideas.;)

[Hammock Hanger]

Looks like the GET will hook up with the AT for 60 miles, connecting somewhere around Burkes Garden and then hooking up with the southern 60 miles of the ALT. SO I guess that is where I'll be.

Hokey Pokey and I have hike this section before. Hopefully next year we will begin to knock off 100 mile sections of the 330 mile ALT.

[Hikerhead]

Allright!!! Can I get started on my spreadsheet now. :)

There's two water sources that I know of that's not in the ATL data book.
The

[Hikerhead]

Allright!!! Can I get started on my spreadsheet now. :)

There's two water sources that I know of that's not in the ATL data book.
The
Sorry....the first one is where you leave the AT to get on the Allegheny Trail. If you stay on the AT for about a 100 yards or so you'll be at the Pine Swamp, yeah, the Pine Swamp shelter was named after this. If you don't see it from the trail, walk into the brush a little ways. The AT used to follow the stream going out of this to the bottom. The next one is 3.59 from the AT at a flat spot that is listed in the data book as an old stagecoach horse livery site. It's on the eastern or va side of this area. I drew a nifty map for HH from work, maybe she still has it and can post it.

[emerald]

Located east of Morgantown in Preston County, Cooper's Rock State Forest (http://www.coopersrockstateforest.com/) is just minutes off I68. It's well worth the time to stop and view Cheat River canyon from its overlook.

[Hammock Hanger]

Allright!!! Can I get started on my spreadsheet now. :)

There's two water sources that I know of that's not in the ATL data book.
The

Yeap, you are in charge of the spreadsheet. I'm just gonna hike what ya tell me to. (Bet my husband wishes I was that compliant!!:p )

[Rufous Sided Towhee]

Located east of Morgantown in Preston County, Cooper's Rock State Forest (http://www.coopersrockstateforest.com/) is just minutes off I68. It's well worth the time to stop and view Cheat River canyon from its overlook.
Wonder why they didn't route the trail through it? Right now, it follows country roads about 5 miles to the east of both Coopers Rock and Chestnut Ridge Park.

BTW, for anyone wanting to spend some quality time at the northern terminus, Chestnut Ridge Park http://www.chestnutridgepark.com is a super-friendly place to stay. Nice campground, plus a handful of cabins for rent as well. Every other weekend in summer, the park hosts the West Virginia Mountain Music Concert Series, which presents some of WV's best old time and stringband talent. There's swimming and fishing in the summer and sledding and stuff in the winter. Chestnut Ridge would be a perfect place to either use as a springboard at the start of a sobo hike, or a relaxing, inexpensive spot to rest and recoup at the end of a nobo. The park is about 3 miles as the crow flies from the northern terminus and I am currently scouting out a route between them along the local park trails and powerline right-of-way.

[Hikerhead]

Sorry....the first one is where you leave the AT to get on the Allegheny Trail. If you stay on the AT for about a 100 yards or so you'll be at the Pine Swamp, yeah, the Pine Swamp shelter was named after this. If you don't see it from the trail, walk into the brush a little ways. The AT used to follow the stream going out of this to the bottom. The next one is 3.59 from the AT at a flat spot that is listed in the data book as an old stagecoach horse livery site. It's on the eastern or va side of this area. I drew a nifty map for HH from work, maybe she still has it and can post it.

Here's my illustrations of two water sources for the southern part of the Allegheny Trail on Peters Mtn.

http://www.whiteblaze.net/forum/vbg/showimage.php?i=14590&c=683

http://www.whiteblaze.net/forum/vbg/showimage.php?i=14589&c=678

[fonsie]

Well its not a very good hikeing trail. More for a bike trip, its like hiking on a road the whole way. I got a little map and it had where you can camp and places to stop, st the Cumberland visiter center. I did the DC to Pittsburg and back to DC on my bike. That was a great trip

[Rufous Sided Towhee]

Well its not a very good hikeing trail. More for a bike trip, its like hiking on a road the whole way. I got a little map and it had where you can camp and places to stop, st the Cumberland visiter center. I did the DC to Pittsburg and back to DC on my bike. That was a great trip
What are you talking about?? The Allegheny Trail goes nowhere near either DC or Pittsburg...

[Rufous Sided Towhee]

For anyone interested, here are the overview maps I've created for the ALT. Obviously, these are just for general use to get a rough idea of approximately what route across WV this trail takes, and should not be used for navigation. Detailed trail maps and an excellent hiking guide can be purchased here: http://www.wvnet.edu/wvsta/guide.html

Here is the overview map of the entire ALT:
http://www.whiteblaze.net/forum/vbg/showimage.php?i=14403&c=553

And here are the overview maps for each of the four sections:

Section 1 Overview Map:
http://www.whiteblaze.net/forum/vbg/showimage.php?i=14404&c=553

Section 2 Overview Map:
http://www.whiteblaze.net/forum/vbg/showimage.php?i=14709&c=553

Section 3 Overview Map:
http://www.whiteblaze.net/forum/vbg/showimage.php?i=14710&c=553

Section 4 Overview Map:
http://www.whiteblaze.net/forum/vbg/showimage.php?i=14711&c=553

Regards,

RST

[Frosty]

Well its not a very good hikeing trail. More for a bike trip, its like hiking on a road the whole way. I got a little map and it had where you can camp and places to stop, st the Cumberland visiter center. I did the DC to Pittsburg and back to DC on my bike. That was a great tripYou are thinking of the Allegheny Rail Trail, which runs from Pittsburgh to Cumberland MD, and the C&O Towpath, which continues from Cumberland MD to Wash DC (Georgetown).

[Frosty]

Section 4 Overview Map:
http://www.whiteblaze.net/forum/vbg/showimage.php?i=14711&c=553

Regards,

RSTThanks. Nice work. GPS coords especially helpful.

Does the guidebook have a road walk recommendation for doing that long road walk in this section? The trail picks up again on an Interstate exit that looks like you can only get to from the north.

[Rufous Sided Towhee]

Thanks. Nice work. GPS coords especially helpful.
Thanks. I tried to put the GPS coords on the section maps but they just took up too much space. For now, I think I'll post a quick table of coords, and when I figure out the best way to create proper maps w/legends, etc I will have those included.


Does the guidebook have a road walk recommendation for doing that long road walk in this section? The trail picks up again on an Interstate exit that looks like you can only get to from the north.
No, it doesn't give any suggestions, my guess is maybe due to liability concerns? Anyway, I'd prefer to walk the entire thing, just don't care for the idea of having to hitch or shuttle, y'know.

Here's a map of the missing area w/coords, maybe we can all put our heads together and figure out the safest walking route.
http://www.whiteblaze.net/forum/vbg/showimage.php?i=14712&c=553

RST

[Paws]

My husband, Flint GAME07, stopped at the Outfiiter at Harper's Ferry and bought a nice three piece bound set last month. The set contains 1 book)Hiking Guide To The Allegheny Trail which is 5.5." x 8.5 ", it weighs in at 4.5 oz. and does section by section with an area for you to write your own info. 2 book)Allegheny Trail Maps which is 8.5" x 11 and has the maps and weighs in at 7.5 oz. 3 book) Allegheny Trail Wildlife Guide which is the same size as book 2 and breaks down the wildlife you may see in different sections of the trail and weighs in 8.3 oz..

We are doing a small section (hopefully) in early February as a prep hike for his AT thru. We are starting at the trailhead on RT. 92 and at this point we aren't sure how far we are going.

Hope this helps.

Paws

[Hikerhead]

Yes, very nicely done Rufous.

I wouldn't think that you would want to walk the missing section. It's about 30 miles.

Someone has mentioned here or on another thread about offering a shuttle, they live just north of where the AT comes out on 635 which may be around or just south of Laurel Branch.

There's lodging in Paint Bank. http://www.co-opliving.com/coopliving/issues/2005/September%202005/downhome.htm

And here's the menu from the Swinging Bridge Resaurant across the street. http://theswingingbridge.com/

Also, an outfitter in White Sulpher Springs is offering shuttles.
From the WVSTA website is the info below:
Shuttle service from I-64 to Laurel Branch is available by contacting tracy@outdooradventures.com or calling 1-888-PLAYWVA. You will need to make any shuttle arrangements in advance.

[Frosty]

Here's a map of the missing area w/coords, maybe we can all put our heads together and figure out the safest walking route.
http://www.whiteblaze.net/forum/vbg/showimage.php?i=14712&c=553

RSTYeah, the problem is not knowing the area. There are main roads that go pretty straight, but probably aren't roads that would be good to walk on. Probably best to print out a whole crapload of highly local Street Atlas maps and play it by ear, and have a GPS so you know where you are at unmarked road junctions.

I don't mind road walks on back roads, especially dirt roads. What I dislike is walking along a busy two-lane state highway with no shoulder and trucks whizzing by right next to me.

Legs, you live in that area, don't you? You have an idea about how to fill in the missing section by walking it rather than shuttling?

[Rufous Sided Towhee]

Hi, Paws!

Yes, this is the same set I bought from the Section 1 coordator earlier this month.

It IS quite nice.

Being an ultralight hiker ouf of necessity, I plan to carefully dis-assemble the spiral-bound books and create a separate map/guide package for each of the three sections between my major re-supply points (Cass & Thomas) where my SO will be meeting me for a zero or two. That way I won't be carrying more stuff than I need and also the maps won't take any more of trail beating than they need to.

[Rufous Sided Towhee]

Agreed, Frosty.

I still recall a traumatic incident trying to get out of Pearisburg on the AT least year. I was walking across a very high bridge on a very busy road with a lot of trucks and cars whizzing by. That was a little scary in itself, but then a pickup full of rednecks went by, and threw a beer bottle at me as they whooped and screamed past me. Ever since then I am leery about road-walking. Little country roads are okay, but busy ones are no fun at all.

Looks like the fastest route through the missing section for us is 311, wonder what that road's like?

[thecaptain]

Rufous Sided Towhee.....I am the one that posted the thread about living near the south end of trail.....In fact on the map (section 4) you posted I live just west of interior.....in fact if u were to walk the AT north of pine swamp shelter for about 1.5 miles you would walk with-in 30 yards of my house across the creek....It would be my pleasure to provide any help to you or any other hiker ...you ask about rt 311 it is a fairly busy 2 lane.. 540-626-5409 or mamaspicphotography@hughes.net

[Rufous Sided Towhee]

Thanks for the compliments on the maps, Hikerhead (& others). BTW, those are just the first rough drafts. I am working on a set that includes GPS coords, legends, etc for the sections and get rid of those big ugly Street Atlas callouts that obscure so much of the map. But these, at least, have give me something to pin up on the wall and look at :o)

You're probably right about the shuttles. I just checked my trail guide, looks like it's about 21 miles from the Offical ALT trailhead* (where it peels off from the AT on Peters Mt) to the Potts Creek trailhead at Laurel Branch. From there's it's either shuttle or a grueling 30-mile roadwalk to Jerry's Run. You guys are talking me into the shuttle, lol.

* It would be 27 miles total from the Sugar Camp parking area suggested in the trail guide (that includes 2 miles on Groundhog Trail, then 4 miles on the Appalachian Trail before getting to the ALT signpost). Then 21 more miles to Laurel.

[Rufous Sided Towhee]

Rufous Sided Towhee.....I am the one that posted the thread about living near the south end of trail.....In fact on the map (section 4) you posted I live just west of interior.....in fact if u were to walk the AT north of pine swamp shelter for about 1.5 miles you would walk with-in 30 yards of my house across the creek....It would be my pleasure to provide any help to you or any other hiker ...you ask about rt 311 it is a fairly busy 2 lane.. 540-626-5409 or mamaspicphotography@hughes.net

Wow, thanks so much Captain! Do you have an estimate of what a donation towards a shuttle would be? I'd want to be sure that, especially with the cost of gas these days, you were fully re-imbursed for both your time and fuel. Could you estimate a shuttle donation for us? And also, would it be alright for me to post that information on my trail journal over at postholer as well? I am always careful to ask first before posting other folks' contact info.

[thecaptain]

Rufose sided towhee.......from where to where? and when? I work a fulltime job so that limits my time frame somewhat you could call me most any night untill 11 or so....no worry just me and my dog here

[The Solemates]

how close does the northern terminus of the allegheny get to the southern terminus of the laural highlands trail in PA? thats a nice little trail, and you could tack it on to the end of your trip...

[Rufous Sided Towhee]

Rufose sided towhee.......from where to where? and when?

Sorry, Captain. I thought your post was a reference to providing a shuttle northbound across the "dead zone", ;) , er, the missing section from Laurel Branch to Jerry's Run.

As far as when, not sure yet since my departure date for my thru-hike of the ALT is still three months away. But I could certainly know the exact date and approximate time of day at least a week beforehand.

[Frau]

Did anyone section or finish the Allegheny Trail? I have just started sectioning/day hiking it. We live about an hour east of Jerry's Run so this is within day hike distance, and I have hiked near my home SO much. Something new will give me welcome respite

Frau

[e-doc]

My friend and I were up the AT in '07, on Peters Mt north of the intersection with the AT. We ran into some guys with a cabin and a homemade golf course on the mountain, the WV side. We passed a bottle of moonshine amongst us and talked about Dale #3. That was only one of the weird happenings on that trip. Most interesting 3 day hike I've ever done.

[Hikerhead]

My friend and I were up the AT in '07, on Peters Mt north of the intersection with the AT. We ran into some guys with a cabin and a homemade golf course on the mountain, the WV side. We passed a bottle of moonshine amongst us and talked about Dale #3. That was only one of the weird happenings on that trip. Most interesting 3 day hike I've ever done.

I've played that course! http://outdoors.webshots.com/photo/2480238540047269387Pbtpwa

I've heard the folks that own the land up there are really nice, friends to the hikers as I can see you found out. We waved at the one that owns the house with the million dollar view once when the trail used to go right down beside his house. He was inside while we passed on by. I'm not going to tell what Hammock Hanger did. I've been across there 5 or 6 times now. Once as a dayhike from Sugarcamp Farm to the parking lot on Peters Mtn. we saw so much wildlife it was like a zoo. Walked up on Ma and baby bear and watched them for about 15 minutes while they turned over rocks looking food. Then a raccoon, and then an owl from close up. That's always been a fun hike.

[Hikerhead]

Did anyone section or finish the Allegheny Trail? I have just started sectioning/day hiking it. We live about an hour east of Jerry's Run so this is within day hike distance, and I have hiked near my home SO much. Something new will give me welcome respite

Frau

I do believe Mrs. Gorp has thru hiked it. There's a journal on line somewhere, I think it was by one of her hiking partners. When you get to Seneca Shelter you can say you know someone who helped to build it.

[e-doc]

That is exactly the place. I figured nobody on the forum had been there. As we walked away they teed of, sliced pretty bad. Probably from all the beer. They had a huge garbage can full of crushed cans.

[Cookerhiker]

Did anyone section or finish the Allegheny Trail? I have just started sectioning/day hiking it. We live about an hour east of Jerry's Run so this is within day hike distance, and I have hiked near my home SO much. Something new will give me welcome respite

Frau

I believe Leonard Atkins aka Habitual Hiker has completed it. I've briefly hiked portions of it in Monongahela National Forest in the Canaan Valley area not too far from where I live. When I last researched it about 2 years ago, there's a section in the southern part that's incomplete and part of the north was closed for road construction.

Update: see Veteran's post (http://www.whiteblaze.net/forum/showthread.php?p=744342#post744342)

[Cookerhiker]

The plan is to leave Trail Days around noon Sunday, drive north and be at the northern trailhead Monday morning where we'll leave the car and get a shuttle to Stony Creek where the AT crosses near Pine Swamp Branch Shelter. We hike about 2.8 miles on the AT to the southern terminus of the ALT and start our trek north. On about the second or third day, we come to the "missing link" where as noted above on this thread, we can arrange a shuttle to where the trail resumes at I-64.

I've obtained the guidebook, maps, and updates from the WV Scenic Trails Association website. I've also e-mailed the WVSTA coordinators for the 4 sections of trail for any recent updates and status changes. Using this info, I've compiled a 3-page spreadsheet of key points along the trail and id'd resupply options and a few "luxury" stays i.e. cottages, B&Bs, restaurants of which there are very few in the 286 miles.

Details still need to be worked out but the last major hurdle is finding a shuttler willing to take us from the northern terminus on the PA/WV line to the southern terminus. Having lived for 2 1/2 years in Western MD, I've called on some contacts there and while there are some promises, nothing concrete yet. If anyone on WB knows of someone willing to do a shuttle this long (about 275 miles one-way), I'd appreciate a PM.

Today I set up a TJ account but it's devoid of any info right now. Probably won't actually fill in the journal until trip's end.

Any WBers have any recent experience with the ALT or knowledgable about anything you wish to share - trail conditions, resupply options, cool side trips, etc.? BTW, we'll be too early for the Cass Scenic Railway - it doesn't open until Friday before Memorial Day. But I'm looking forward to a brew and some music at the Purple Fiddle (http://www.purplefiddle.com/index.html) in Thomas!

[Donnie]

Two Buddies and I hiked a third of the Allegheny Trail about a year ago. We started at the northern terminus and under 72 hours later were at Blackwater Falls. If I remember correctly, it was a decent amount of walking on old logging road/dirt roads. I think one of more interesting parts of the trek included rescuing a red-tailed hawk after it came crashing down through a laurel bush. We took a few awesome pictures that I have saved to a CD but never did upload to the Internet. My buddy carried it a few miles until we came to a house where we could could call animal protection people.

Some advice: Don't lie awake at night joking with your friends about getting up extra early to bang out a 34-mile day. Your body won't like you the next day.

-Donnie

[Cookerhiker]

Two Buddies and I hiked a third of the Allegheny Trail about a year ago. We started at the northern terminus and under 72 hours later were at Blackwater Falls. If I remember correctly, it was a decent amount of walking on old logging road/dirt roads. I think one of more interesting parts of the trek included rescuing a red-tailed hawk after it came crashing down through a laurel bush. We took a few awesome pictures that I have saved to a CD but never did upload to the Internet. My buddy carried it a few miles until we came to a house where we could could call animal protection people.

Some advice: Don't lie awake at night joking with your friends about getting up extra early to bang out a 34-mile day. Your body won't like you the next day.

-Donnie

Donnie, thanks much. The section you hiked is the one I had wondered about the most because of all the road walking. It's nice to know much of it is on dirt roads as opposed to blacktop.

34 mile day? I might cover 34 miles on a good 2-day stretch.

[Cookerhiker]

We're getting psyched about this hike. A lot has fallen into place but at this point, 2 hurdles are occupying much of my planning time.

1. The ALT's appeal - relative isolated and non-commercialized - means resupply options are limited-to-non-existent especially since we wish to minimize our off-trail time and distance. So we're relying on mail drops.
Shipping my fuel canisters with my maildrops - in light of the recent thread on this subject, I consulted my local PO who basically punted and said to check with the another PO. So I'm still not sure how I'll send the canisters. One possibility is to hand-deliver them when driving from Trail Days to the ALT northern terminus but that takes more time.

2. My efforts to arrange a full north-to-south shuttle proved unsuccessful; at least I can't risk continually waiting on all the people who said "maybe." So we've changed gears and will now take AMTRAK to Lynchburg. I'm seeking shuttles from the northern trailhead to Cumberland MD on Monday the 17th and Lynchburg to the southern trailhead on Tuesday morning the 18th. Hopefully those shorter distances will be tenable.

I'd like to hear of others' ALT experience -both the hike itself and the logistics.

[Hikerhead]

Go with a alcohol stove. Plenty of Gas Stations will have Heat in the Yellow container. A coke bottle full of alcohol will last me a week and a half. A Trangia stove will only cost 20 bucks and it simmers. Be flexible, bend a little.

Have you looked at taking amtrak to Covington, va or Hinton WVa. There was talk of a spur of the GET going from Pearisburg to Pipesteam following the New River, Hinton is just down the road, there might already be a trail on the ground. Get to Pearisburg and get on the AT to the ALT. Little Bear would probably know about this.


We're getting psyched about this hike. A lot has fallen into place but at this point, 2 hurdles are occupying much of my planning time.

1. The ALT's appeal - relative isolated and non-commercialized - means resupply options are limited-to-non-existent especially since we wish to minimize our off-trail time and distance. So we're relying on mail drops.
Shipping my fuel canisters with my maildrops - in light of the recent thread on this subject, I consulted my local PO who basically punted and said to check with the another PO. So I'm still not sure how I'll send the canisters. One possibility is to hand-deliver them when driving from Trail Days to the ALT northern terminus but that takes more time.

2. My efforts to arrange a full north-to-south shuttle proved unsuccessful; at least I can't risk continually waiting on all the people who said "maybe." So we've changed gears and will now take AMTRAK to Lynchburg. I'm seeking shuttles from the northern trailhead to Cumberland MD on Monday the 17th and Lynchburg to the southern trailhead on Tuesday morning the 18th. Hopefully those shorter distances will be tenable.

I'd like to hear of others' ALT experience -both the hike itself and the logistics.

[Cookerhiker]

Go with a alcohol stove. Plenty of Gas Stations will have Heat in the Yellow container. A coke bottle full of alcohol will last me a week and a half. A Trangia stove will only cost 20 bucks and it simmers. Be flexible, bend a little.

Have you looked at taking amtrak to Covington, va or Hinton WVa. There was talk of a spur of the GET going from Pearisburg to Pipesteam following the New River, Hinton is just down the road, there might already be a trail on the ground. Get to Pearisburg and get on the AT to the ALT. Little Bear would probably know about this.

The AMTRAK line you're referring to - The Cardinal - also stops in Clifton Forge which is probably the nearest point to the ALT. I looked into it, but this line only runs 3 days per week so we lose at least a day, probably 2.

Alcohol stove? Nah, not for me. Close-minded? Yeah!;)

And I'm not altogether certain of Heet's availability on this hike. I might be better off taking my heavier Coleman Peak One white gas stove since I could use unleaded gasoline which I can probably obtain.

[Hikerhead]

You can take Amtrak to White Sulpher Springs but it involves an overnite in DC most likely, probably not a problem for you since you have friends there. White Sulpher has an outfitter there that shuttles, not sure of a price but not much if you start on the Jerry Run Trail just up the road and then come back and pick up the 20 miles of unconnected trail on Peters Mtn. You could even play a game or two on the slot machines at the Greenbrier if that's been set up by now, I believe that passed the vote they had a while back. You might look a little out of place with all the blue bloods but the hell with them.


We're getting psyched about this hike. A lot has fallen into place but at this point, 2 hurdles are occupying much of my planning time.

1. The ALT's appeal - relative isolated and non-commercialized - means resupply options are limited-to-non-existent especially since we wish to minimize our off-trail time and distance. So we're relying on mail drops.
Shipping my fuel canisters with my maildrops - in light of the recent thread on this subject, I consulted my local PO who basically punted and said to check with the another PO. So I'm still not sure how I'll send the canisters. One possibility is to hand-deliver them when driving from Trail Days to the ALT northern terminus but that takes more time.

2. My efforts to arrange a full north-to-south shuttle proved unsuccessful; at least I can't risk continually waiting on all the people who said "maybe." So we've changed gears and will now take AMTRAK to Lynchburg. I'm seeking shuttles from the northern trailhead to Cumberland MD on Monday the 17th and Lynchburg to the southern trailhead on Tuesday morning the 18th. Hopefully those shorter distances will be tenable.

I'd like to hear of others' ALT experience -both the hike itself and the logistics.

[Hikerhead]

The AMTRAK line you're referring to - The Cardinal - also stops in Clifton Forge which is probably the nearest point to the ALT. I looked into it, but this line only runs 3 days per week so we lose at least a day, probably 2.

Alcohol stove? Nah, not for me. Close-minded? Yeah!;)

And I'm not altogether certain of Heet's availability on this hike. I might be better off taking my heavier Coleman Peak One white gas stove since I could use unleaded gasoline which I can probably obtain.

Maybe your buddy is a little more flexible. I hope so. :) One of you can carry the Gas stove and the other alcohol. I can guarantee you'll find something for the alcohol stove before the gas stove. The Peak would be a good choice.

[Hikerhead]

Here you go. Pay off your hike with one pull.

http://www.greenbrier.com/site/packages-grand-escape.aspx

[Cookerhiker]

.... You could even play a game or two on the slot machines at the Greenbrier .... You might look a little out of place with all the blue bloods but the hell with them.

Gee do you really think so?:-?:D

Again, that means waiting until Wednesday - it's all the same line (Cardinal).

[Hikerhead]

Gee do you really think so?:-?:D

Again, that means waiting until Wednesday - it's all the same line (Cardinal).

OK. the key word is Flexible. Do you know how far Lynchburg is from Peters Mtn? 2 1/2 hrs one way.

[Donnie]

I'm seeking shuttles from the northern trailhead to Cumberland MD on Monday the 17th and Lynchburg to the southern trailhead on Tuesday morning the 18th. Hopefully those shorter distances will be tenable.

I'd like to hear of others' ALT experience -both the hike itself and the logistics.

I can't make any promises this far out seeing as my work schedule is constantly in flux but if you can't find a ride from Bruceton Mills to Cumberland, send me a message. It would be a little out of the way but I could make the trip for another hiker.


-Donnie

[Cookerhiker]

I can't make any promises this far out seeing as my work schedule is constantly in flux but if you can't find a ride from Bruceton Mills to Cumberland, send me a message. It would be a little out of the way but I could make the trip for another hiker.


-Donnie

Thanks - I'll let you know.

[Cookerhiker]

I know there is another thread on here about thru-hiking this trail but it doesn't seem to get into the nuts and bolts around doing so.

I am very interested in thru-hiking this trail starting in the next week or so and would really like to hear from others who have been on the trail, thru-hiked it or know about it.

In particular...

- public transportation to each trailhead (I have a car but would need to get back to it, or could just rely on public trans/shuttles)
- is the current trail guide accurate?
- maps?
- resupply options?
- signage and trail markings, good or vague?
- ticks? lyme disease?
- campsites, shelters, etc...?
- is may/early june a bad time to hike (mud, bugs, etc...)

Any information is greatly appreciated!

I can answer some of your questions based on the extensive planning I've done. Of course we'll see how reality comes out after my NOBO thruhike starts on Tuesday, May 18.

As noted in previous posts to this thread, the ALT is maintained by the West Virginia Scenic Trails Association (http://wvscenictrails.org/AlleghenyTrailOverview.aspx). You can purchase the guidebook & maps from them but the last edition of the book is dated 2003. If you want more current updates, you must join the WVSTA - dues are only $12.

You asked about shelters - there are about 6 or so on the entire 292 miles of the AT. The Guidebook also lists areas where camping is good and the few areas where camping is prohibited. I composed a spreadsheet with key data points (camping areas, state parks, road crossings, lodging, etc.) and have attached it to this post. It apparently exceeds the size limit so if it doesn't show, send me a PM or e-mail and I'll send it to you. The spreadsheet also lists the nights where we plan to camp and the mileage for each day. I composed it in QuattroPro and converted it to Execel dropping the formulae so I'm not sure how it will come out.

Resupply options: we don't want to leave the immediate trail corridor so we're using 4 maildrops. In order from the south, they are a B&B in Huntersville (Mile 75), a cottage in Durbin (Mile 119), the Canaan Valley Lodge in the state park (Mile 184) and the PO in Rowlesburg (Mile 238). The closest the ALT passes to any full-scale grocery stores is in Davis outside of Blackwater Falls SP (Mile 195) but it's still a 2-3 mile walk. Until you reach the Canaan Valley at mile 184, the closest town for any meaningful resupply is Marlinton which is 6 miles off the trail. Otherwise, there are small grocery stores in Huntersville (75), Cass (101), Glady (147), Thomas (197), and Rowlesburg (238).

A word about mileage: it's not exactly precise. The WVSTA website says "330 miles or will be when last 20 miles are complete" but adding the mileage up in the Guide results in 292 miles. Then there's a major trail closure in the north resulting in a relocation that shaves off some miles but how much is uncertain because of contradictory descriptions in the WVSTA guide & website. As near as I can figure, the total mileage now is 288 miles which you'll see is the total on my spreadsheet.

Regarding that reference to the "last 20 miles," the ALT has a missing link in the south. You'll find plenty of references to it and how to deal with it in the previous posts.


Logistics: public transportation is limited and you have to arrange for some shuttles. Here's what we're doing:
Parking our car Sunday evening May 16 at the northern trailhead on the WV/PA border (I've been told it's safe);
Getting a ride to Cumberland, MD where we spend the night;
AMTRAK the next day at 9:30 AM to Washington DC, thence another train to Lynchburg, VA where we spend the night;
Early Tuesday morning the 18th, shuttle to where the AT intersects Stony Creek Rd. very near Pine Swamp Branch Shelter.
Hike the AT southbound for 2.5 miles to the Peters Mountain ridgeline where the ALT begins.
Hike on that day and camp
About 1 PM the next day (Wednesday) arrive at the end of the southern missing link and pick up another shuttle to where the ALT resumes at I-64 on the WV/VA border and continue our hike north.
One note re. AMTRAK: you can take AMTRAK closer to the ALT junction at I-64 on a different line and alight at White Sulphur Springs but this train only leaves 3 days a week so you have to arrange your schedule around it. As far as I can tell, bus service is virtually non-existent.

At the southern end, you can contact the shuttlers from the ATC list who service Central Virginia or you can contact Hikerhead who lives in Roanoke and is very familiar with the southern half of the ALT - you'll note his many posts above. For the northern end, I was lucky in that I lived in Western MD for 2 1/2 years and had enough contacts I was able to secure a shuttle.

Administratively and trail maintenance-wise, the ALT is broken into 4 segments with a coordinator for each one. I e-mailed all the coordinators for any info/updates on trail conditions. In general, the ALT is not maintained anywhere near to AT standards so I expect blowdowns and faint-to-zero blazes. I also asked the northern coordinator about shuttlers but to no avail.

FYI the ALT drops below 1,200 only once briefly and that's on the aforementioned detour. The highest point is 4,120'. And based on my perusal of the guide, it appears (famous last words here) that there are few if any long uphills so characteristic of the AT. There's a 27 mile stretch along a river, the Glady Fork, which I'm eagerly anticipating. And there's one major river ford (Greenbrier) where a high-water alternative is also available.

I could go on and on but hope this helps. Again feel free to contact me.

[Cookerhiker]

I created this map yesterday and would be the first to admit that it's not overly precise but it gives you an idea of where the ALT is located, at least relative to the rest of West Virginia. I omitted the 21 mile stretch at the far south where it branches off from the AT on Peters Mountain.

[johnnyblisters]

Wow cookerhiker, thanks a lot for your posts. Please consider posting a journal of your trip, have fun!

[Cookerhiker]

I have set up a journal: www.trailjournals.com/CookerhikerALT (http://www.trailjournals.com/CookerhikerALT) but I won't likely post much until I return home. I expect virtually no internet access for at least 190 miles and I'll never be near a library or other place with public access. We have a planned zero day at Canaan Valley but I don't want to spend it on a computer.

[Hikerhead]

I can answer some of your questions based on the extensive planning I've done. Of course we'll see how reality comes out after my NOBO thruhike starts on Tuesday, May 18.

As noted in previous posts to this thread, the ALT is maintained by the West Virginia Scenic Trails Association (http://wvscenictrails.org/AlleghenyTrailOverview.aspx). You can purchase the guidebook & maps from them but the last edition of the book is dated 2003. If you want more current updates, you must join the WVSTA - dues are only $12.

You asked about shelters - there are about 6 or so on the entire 292 miles of the AT. The Guidebook also lists areas where camping is good and the few areas where camping is prohibited. I composed a spreadsheet with key data points (camping areas, state parks, road crossings, lodging, etc.) and have attached it to this post. It apparently exceeds the size limit so if it doesn't show, send me a PM or e-mail and I'll send it to you. The spreadsheet also lists the nights where we plan to camp and the mileage for each day. I composed it in QuattroPro and converted it to Execel dropping the formulae so I'm not sure how it will come out.

Resupply options: we don't want to leave the immediate trail corridor so we're using 4 maildrops. In order from the south, they are a B&B in Huntersville (Mile 75), a cottage in Durbin (Mile 119), the Canaan Valley Lodge in the state park (Mile 184) and the PO in Rowlesburg (Mile 238). The closest the ALT passes to any full-scale grocery stores is in Davis outside of Blackwater Falls SP (Mile 195) but it's still a 2-3 mile walk. Until you reach the Canaan Valley at mile 184, the closest town for any meaningful resupply is Marlinton which is 6 miles off the trail. Otherwise, there are small grocery stores in Huntersville (75), Cass (101), Glady (147), Thomas (197), and Rowlesburg (238).

A word about mileage: it's not exactly precise. The WVSTA website says "330 miles or will be when last 20 miles are complete" but adding the mileage up in the Guide results in 292 miles. Then there's a major trail closure in the north resulting in a relocation that shaves off some miles but how much is uncertain because of contradictory descriptions in the WVSTA guide & website. As near as I can figure, the total mileage now is 288 miles which you'll see is the total on my spreadsheet.

Regarding that reference to the "last 20 miles," the ALT has a missing link in the south. You'll find plenty of references to it and how to deal with it in the previous posts.


Logistics: public transportation is limited and you have to arrange for some shuttles. Here's what we're doing:
Parking our car Sunday evening May 16 at the northern trailhead on the WV/PA border (I've been told it's safe);
Getting a ride to Cumberland, MD where we spend the night;
AMTRAK the next day at 9:30 AM to Washington DC, thence another train to Lynchburg, VA where we spend the night;
Early Tuesday morning the 18th, shuttle to where the AT intersects Stony Creek Rd. very near Pine Swamp Branch Shelter.
Hike the AT southbound for 2.5 miles to the Peters Mountain ridgeline where the ALT begins.
Hike on that day and camp
About 1 PM the next day (Wednesday) arrive at the end of the southern missing link and pick up another shuttle to where the ALT resumes at I-64 on the WV/VA border and continue our hike north.
One note re. AMTRAK: you can take AMTRAK closer to the ALT junction at I-64 on a different line and alight at White Sulphur Springs but this train only leaves 3 days a week so you have to arrange your schedule around it. As far as I can tell, bus service is virtually non-existent.

At the southern end, you can contact the shuttlers from the ATC list who service Central Virginia or you can contact Hikerhead who lives in Roanoke and is very familiar with the southern half of the ALT - you'll note his many posts above. For the northern end, I was lucky in that I lived in Western MD for 2 1/2 years and had enough contacts I was able to secure a shuttle.

Administratively and trail maintenance-wise, the ALT is broken into 4 segments with a coordinator for each one. I e-mailed all the coordinators for any info/updates on trail conditions. In general, the ALT is not maintained anywhere near to AT standards so I expect blowdowns and faint-to-zero blazes. I also asked the northern coordinator about shuttlers but to no avail.

FYI the ALT drops below 1,200 only once briefly and that's on the aforementioned detour. The highest point is 4,120'. And based on my perusal of the guide, it appears (famous last words here) that there are few if any long uphills so characteristic of the AT. There's a 27 mile stretch along a river, the Glady Fork, which I'm eagerly anticipating. And there's one major river ford (Greenbrier) where a high-water alternative is also available.

I could go on and on but hope this helps. Again feel free to contact me.

When you do the blueblaze to the Raptor Observatory, don't backtrack, keep on heading the same way and your back on track in about 100 yards where the two trails come back together. It's a circle around the observatory and what is called the blueblaze should be the main trail IMHO. Nice job on this spreadsheet.

[Cookerhiker]

When you do the blueblaze to the Raptor Observatory, don't backtrack, keep on heading the same way and your back on track in about 100 yards where the two trails come back together. It's a circle around the observatory and what is called the blueblaze should be the main trail IMHO. Nice job on this spreadsheet.

Thanks for the tip and good luck on your upcoming hike in PA.

[Hikerhead]

Thanks for the tip and good luck on your upcoming hike in PA. Thanks. Also, there's a firetower you'll go by about a mile past the Seneca Shelter. Take a break and check that out.

http://www.senecastateforest.com/senecamap.pdf

[dan213]

some pics from my allegheny hike today. figured some people in this thread might enjoy them...

http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g228/jeterfan213/Hiking/Allegany/100_0438.jpg
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g228/jeterfan213/Hiking/Allegany/100_0435.jpg
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g228/jeterfan213/Hiking/Allegany/100_0462.jpg
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g228/jeterfan213/Hiking/Allegany/100_0460.jpg
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g228/jeterfan213/Hiking/Allegany/100_0456.jpg
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g228/jeterfan213/Hiking/Allegany/100_0442.jpg

[Cookerhiker]

Dan, much thanks. Very nice photos - enough to get me more psyched!

Our hike has been postponed by 2-3 days because of some family issues which is why I'm on-line now instead of riding AMTRAK to the southern terminus as planned.

[Canada Goose]

Cookerhiker,

Nice meeting you and Karen at Traildays over the weekend. Wishing you best of luck on your ALT hike, and look forward to tales of your adventure on your return.

CG

[stranger]

If you were to hike the trail and forget about the last section with the gap and end near I 64, how would someone get to from there without a car?

Anyone know about the northern terminus as well...possible shuttles?

Thanks

[Cookerhiker]

Well we got all of 15.6 miles and had to end the hike because of an injury which occurred at our first (and only) night's campsite. It was an action-packed 15.6 miles what with numerous blowdowns, non-existent "trail" through waist-high nettles & other underbrush, lots of beautiful wildflowers, 2 crossings of the Eastern Continental Divide, stretches through marshes & bogs, absolutely no fellow hikers, and to top it off at the end of the day: an encounter with a big rattlesnake (no, it wasn't the cause of the injury). Although very well-blazed (Yellow-blazing on the ALT is equivalent to white-blazing on the AT), the path was barely or not discernible in places. So even if the injury hadn't occurred, we intended to reassess the hike after 3-4 days, 50 miles when we reached our first townstop in Huntersville. If we had continued to battle blowdowns and high brush for the entire 50 miles, we likely would have called it quits. The WVSTA had apprised me that winter blowdowns were uncleared but most of them obviously predated last winter.

Now I don't know how typical this stretch was compared to portions further north. The whole ALT is quite remote and unpeopled - especially compared to the AT - but the southern portion where we hiked (I-64 north to Sherwood Lake Rd.) was particularly isolated.

It's a bummer especially considering all the time I spent planning the transportation & shuttles at each end, the resupply maildrops, the hiking schedule. I still want to return to this trail but most likely at a different time of year - either April before the understory growth or the second half of October. Perhaps after The Gathering?

Anyway I learned a lot in the planning process if not on the 1 1/4 days hike. So that the time I spent doesn't completely go to waste, I'd be pleased to share my spreadsheet, resupply options, trailside and off-trail lodging and facilities (such that they are) and any other info. for anyone who's interested in the ALT.

[Cookerhiker]

If you were to hike the trail and forget about the last section with the gap and end near I 64, how would someone get to from there without a car?

Anyone know about the northern terminus as well...possible shuttles?

Thanks

Re. the I-64 end, you have some good choices. Either take AMTRAK on the Cardinal line to White Sulphur Springs or Greyhound to Roanoke. From either location, you can draw from the ATC shuttle list for a shuttle. But keep in mind that the AMTRAK train only runs 3 days per week. Consult AMTRAK's website.

The north is more problematic. It's easy to find the parking lot which appears safe to leave a car but shuttlers and transportation are harder to find. My previous posts described how I arranged a shuttle to Cumberland where I took AMTRAK. I lived for 2 1/2 years in Western MD and drew on my contacts and friends, resulting in a free shuttle. My attempts to secure a single north-to-south shuttle were unsuccessful.

If I were doing it again (and I might be!), I'd go to the websites of West Virginia University and Frostburg State University and try to find a bulletin board/chatroom and/or student outing club to solicit a ride. I'd think there'd be some college student looking to make a few $$$ for a shuttle. Of course, you can also advertise here on WB. I asked the WVSTA (the ALT maintaining club) about shuttlers but they had nothing to offer.

[handlebar]

I've had the Allegheny Trail on my "to do" list for a couple of years and am planning to start southbound on March 15. Got the guidebooks and the updates and really am thankful for CookerHiker's posts above. Plan to contact the caretakers for each section to get updates on trail conditions over the next two months.

[Hikerhead]

I've had the Allegheny Trail on my "to do" list for a couple of years and am planning to start southbound on March 15. Got the guidebooks and the updates and really am thankful for CookerHiker's posts above. Plan to contact the caretakers for each section to get updates on trail conditions over the next two months.

That's a good time to start before the trail Weeds-Over. They keep the blazing in pretty good shape but don't have a lot hands for maintenance so you might have to step over a few trees here and there. Are you keeping a journal?

[Cookerhiker]

I've had the Allegheny Trail on my "to do" list for a couple of years and am planning to start southbound on March 15. Got the guidebooks and the updates and really am thankful for CookerHiker's posts above. Plan to contact the caretakers for each section to get updates on trail conditions over the next two months.

Send me a PM if you'd like my planning spreadsheet. It's organized northbound but you could adapt it. I composed it using the ALT guidebook with relevant stops including planned camping areas. It also has info on our planned re-supply points and town stops (such that they would have been).


That's a good time to start before the trail Weeds-Over. They keep the blazing in pretty good shape but don't have a lot hands for maintenance so you might have to step over a few trees here and there. Are you keeping a journal?

Yes, that comports with my experience as noted in Post 115 above. A March 15 start should avoid the thick underbrush I encountered. I was surprised how high the undergrowth was already by May 22 when we started. And you can expect some blowdowns.


I'm hoping to resume (actually restart) the ALT next Fall, tentatively a few days after the ALDHA Gathering.

[Doc Mike]

I live in kingwood, wv. Very close to the allegheny trail and northern terminus in bruceton. If I can be of any help such as shuttles or logistics let me know. Or i could join one of you for a weekend if the schedules mesh.

Doc Mike

[handlebar]

CookerHiker: I already downloaded your spreadsheet that was posted above. Am adapting it for sobo and will repost that version when it's ready.

DocMike: I'll contact you when start date approaches. Will be nice to hike with someone if it works out.

[Cookerhiker]

I live in kingwood, wv. Very close to the allegheny trail and northern terminus in bruceton. If I can be of any help such as shuttles or logistics let me know. Or i could join one of you for a weekend if the schedules mesh.

Doc Mike

Doc Mike, where were you last Spring?:D Ah, I see you just joined WB last August. Welcome!

[Doc Mike]

pm me here or E-mail gopherhunter@frontiernet.net

I work alot and am usually hiking on the weekends that I'm not. So let me know as far in advance as possible and we will see what we can work out.

Doc Mike

[jen.sprout]

If you go, feel free to contact me as well. I live close (45ish minutes from the southern end) and would like to get some sections in on this.

[Cookerhiker]

Handlebar started his SOBO thruhike yesterday. If you'd like to send him greetings, here's his trail journal:

http://www.trailjournals.com/entry.cfm?id=338619

[Cookerhiker]

Yesterday, Mr. Ed started his SOBO ALT thruhike:
http://www.trailjournals.com/entry.cfm?id=339516

Meanwhile, Handlebar has >100 miles under his boots now and is past Canaan Valley into the heart of the Monongahela (http://www.fs.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsinternet/!ut/p/c4/04_SB8K8xLLM9MSSzPy8xBz9CP0os3gjAwhwtDDw9_AI8zPwhQ oY6BdkOyoCAPkATlA!/?ss=110921&navtype=BROWSEBYSUBJECT&cid=FSE_003853&navid=091000000000000&pnavid=null&position=BROWSEBYSUBJECT&ttype=main&pname=Monongahela National Forest- Home).

[Cookerhiker]

Mala, one of most well-known Trail Angels, has recently relocated to the ALT corridor in West Virginia and is now intending to provide his Magic to ALT hikers. He's asked me to help spread the word.

Unlike the AT with its plethora of Trail Magic and infrastructure of support, the ALT is a much more remote trail short on service providers and generally more challenging for resupply. Transportation logistics are also more difficult with virtually no public transportation. The few towns the ALT passes through are skimpy re. hikers needs although there are some a few miles off the trail with stores & places to stay such as Marlinton & Davis. As I said in a previous post, hikng the ALT resembles hiking the AT 50-60 years ago.

Mala is looking forward to meeting ALT hikers and helping them as well as hiking the ALT himself some day. I have a feeling the "entitlement mentality" is non-existent.

[WingedMonkey]

[QUOTE=Cookerhiker;1136219 As I said in a previous post, hikng the ALT resembles hiking the AT 50-60 years ago.[/QUOTE]

And you want to change that ...because?

:sun

[Cookerhiker]

And you want to change that ...because?

:sun

Nope, don't want to change it. I understand your point; I'm not at all negative about current conditions and sorry if I left that impression.

And I don't think one new Trail Angel on the ALT is going to start a slippery slope down to a "social trail."

[WingedMonkey]

Nope, don't want to change it. I understand your point; I'm not at all negative about current conditions and sorry if I left that impression.

And I don't think one new Trail Angel on the ALT is going to start a slippery slope down to a "social trail."

Cool...now if you can get rid of that looooong road walk on the south end before I get there next year, you can be my trail angel.
:cool:
I'm watching Handlebar's journal to see his plan of forest roads to get around this.

[handlebar]

Finished up the ALT on April 8. In spite of the rain and snow it was an enjoyable hike. Saw no one else with a backpack until Mr.Ed caught up with me at the Graham Shelter on Smith Knob 8 mi N of I-64 a few days from the end. My journal is at: www.trailjournals.com/handlebar.

One of the concerns I had on this hike was the many miles of walking on county roads in the northernmost section. In fact, these roads were virtually abandoned when I went through, some are impassable even by jeep.

I had tried to work out a walk around for the missing link section that would involve some woods bushwhacking, but wound up bailing and taking the shuttle provided by an outfitter. There is a map showing the proposed trail route on the "missing link" at the Graham Shelter. It starts out following Jerry's Run Rd S then climbs up onto a mountain ridge in George Washington National Forest.

I found my mid-March start date was a bit early for this hike---had lots of snow and rain. I'd recommend starting in mid-April instead. The weather should be better, yet the weeds and briers still won't be overgrown onto the trail.

[Cookerhiker]

Handlebar, congratulations on thruhiking the ALT, especially considering the conditions and adverse weather you endured. Your journal is an excellent read and gives anyone contemplating this trail a very good portrait of what it's like to hike it. In particular, I found your summary closing entry an outstanding synopsis of the ALT.

As you said, hiking the ALT like you did puts you in good stead for completing the CDT later this year.

[handlebar]

When I walked the ALT this past spring, I came to where the guide described a "should be easy" ford of Glady Fork. It was in flood and the temp was dropping (snowed just an hour later) so I didn't dare cross. It was raining and I had my head down so I didn't look around the bend to find the nice new bridge the forest service put up over the creek. I wound up bushwhacking up to a road which led to the top of the mountain for a 9 mile detour. Anyhow, there is a bridge there now.

Also, earlier in this thread there's a list of post offices. Some of them are already closed and the postal service is looking at closing more, so be sure to check out the USPS web site before you mail any packages.

[JimboWV]

I'm going to attempting part of this trail sometime soon. I'll be going SOBO starting from the Northern Terminus. I'm planning a slow hike, probably 10 miles a day or less and will be packing minimal supplies. I would like to try living off of wild edibles as much as possible. I know that is pipe dream expecially considering the season so I will be packing some basic food. I'm not planning on thru-hiking but I will leave it to my body to judge the stop point.

It would be nice to meet up with some people along the trail and even a hiking buddy for a day or so.

[JimboWV]

I would like to point out that if you keep walking less than a mile north of the Northern terminus into Pennsylvania you'll hit the Quebec Run wilderness area that has awesome trails and allows camping (no permit needed for 1 night primitive camping I believe) and also connect to Whitetail Trail that takes you close to Uniontown.

http://www.dcnr.state.pa.us/ucmprd1/groups/public/documents/document/dcnr_002563.pdf

Also you are about 4.5 to 5 mile walk from the Coopers Rock trails that lead you to several camping options or you can take the trails to Fairchance Rd where there is public transportation to Morgantown.

Both places are great options for an extra day or two of exploring.

There are a lot of options if you are wanting to extend your hike.

If you Private message me here I'll get an email notification and can help you plot a route and/or help with shuttles or resupply in most of the northern 1/3 of the ALT.

[Cookerhiker]

If you haven't done so, it's worth reading Handlebar's trail journal linked in his post above for an idea of winter-like conditions.

Also since you live in Morgantown, would you provide ALT shuttles?

[JimboWV]

I could probably help with shuttles. With a little notice I could almost always shuttle from the trailhead to Morgantown, or vice versa. I'm sure that we could work something out for shuttles elsewhere.

I don't want to post my number on the net but message me and I'll give it to you in private.