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Experienced and now 75
Seeking suggestions. I have section hiked with my friend for many years. We have hiked Springer to Atkins, VA over many years and last hiked when she was 68. She is now 75 and deeply desires to hike one more section together. When hiking Wautauga to Damascus, we enjoyed gaining elevation then hiking a ridgeline before descending into town. Is there a section north of Atkins that is similar, or has fewer sustained climbs and descents? We are hoping to hike for a week or two spring or summer 2023. Greatly appreciate any suggestions that would help me plan this well for her. Thank you.
Wren
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The Shenandoahs sound like what you're looking for in "fewer sustained climbs and descents."
Another possibility might be Newport, Virginia, to Daleville, which includes McAfee Knob and Tinker Cliffs. This is mostly ridgetop walking with lots of smaller climbs and descents but relatively few intermediate or harder climbs. Good scenery. Water is a bit scarce, but you can tank up at the few reliable places like Lambert Meadows.
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Thank you! Those a great suggestions. Just got out my WhiteBlaze guidebook and looked at the elevations maps. I appreciate your time in replying!
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That's a great suggestion. Another option is the 40 miles of md.
The original Washington monument is right off trail, lots of history and you could end your hike in Harpers Ferry.
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Another great idea! She is a Civil War Buff and hasn't been in that area. Thank you!
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Further afield would suggest the 100 Mile Wilderness, after black fly season. Get either Shaw’s or the AT Lodge to do a “food drop” for you half way. Breakfast at Shaw’s with a bevy of other happy hikers is a very convivial fun experience. And great chow.
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Thank you! It would be fun to go through Pine Grove Furnace, and see the AT museum.
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The section south of Daleville is great. The first ridge has Tinkers Cliff and McAfee Knob. The next has Dragon's Tooth. The next has the Audie Murphy Monument. The next is Sinking Creek Ridge with a great rocky ridge (my favorite) and then you come to the Keefer Oak.
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