View Full Version : What is it like in the 15 miles north of damascus?
george_jefferson
09-25-2009, 23:52
Hey guys. Im going for a quick weekend trip to damascus. what's the trail like in the 15 miles north of the town? i've never hiked in virginia before.
Tennessee Viking
09-26-2009, 01:22
Hey guys. Im going for a quick weekend trip to damascus. what's the trail like in the 15 miles north of the town? i've never hiked in virginia before.
Its quite easy. You just have a short climb up Feather Camp ridge to US58. Then you parallel the Creeper for a bit to Taylors Valley then up short climb to Saunders then its ridge walk till you meet up with the Creeper again near Creek Junction. Cross the bridge and you start walking into all the hollows on Lost Mountain then short walk down to Summit Cut.
Skip the 15 miles immediately north of Damascus and do the Highlands instead.
If I were doing that section again, I'd definitely hike the Virginia Creeper trail to the top. It's a gravel road, better views, and a break from the same 'ol same 'ol of the AT. When you get to the top, the AT intersects the trail and you'll be on your way. Or like Egads said, skip it and go straight to the Highlands -- very beautiful there.
george_jefferson
09-26-2009, 09:59
Thanks. Grayson highlands state park does look like a better starting point. How's the water situation this time of year? I see plenty of water in the data book but are most of those running?
bigcranky
09-26-2009, 10:01
There is a road crossing about 18 miles north of Damascus (US 58), and that section makes a nice overnight hike.
But if I were to recommend a hike, it would be in the Mt Rogers / Grayson Highlands area. There are some great loops and sections there. Get the map.
Chaco Taco
09-26-2009, 10:02
Creeper out of Damascus is the way to go. The climb up to Buzzard Rock is fun and the reward is great.
Darwin again
09-26-2009, 17:06
On that section, I once walked up on a guy spanking his monkey right in the middle of the trail. It can be an odd place.
Chaco Taco
09-26-2009, 17:59
On that section, I once walked up on a guy spanking his monkey right in the middle of the trail. It can be an odd place.
http://images0.cafepress.com/product/12157740v21_240x240_Front.jpg
The entire SW VA / NE TN area is under a flood watch. Having enough water will NOT be problem.
Chaco Taco
09-26-2009, 19:27
The entire SW VA / NE TN area is under a flood watch. Having enough water will NOT be problem.
Yea its been pretty bad here today as well