Northern VA - Quick AT Solo hike

**neslog** · 09-05-2016, 16:51

Snuck out last night for my first solo hike on the AT. Started at Keys Gap about 6:15 pm. Had to break out the head lamp at 8 pm and night hikes about 30 min. Saw lots of deer's eyes glowing in the dark. Finally arrived at Blackburn Trail Center.

Made the hike down the switchbacks and found myself alone. Finished setting up camp at 9:10 and crashed for the night. Saw lights on the ridge periodically. Was clear and could see the moon peeking through the cube tarp a couple of time. Slight cool breeze through most of the night. Too warm for wool socks, had to kick them off at 1:30 am.

Got up at 5:45 am and had some oatmeal and apple cider. Great start to a cool morning. Hit the trail about 6:10 and booked it down to Raven Rocks parking area off route 7. I way under estimated the time. Finished about 10am!

Was a great time and looking forward to the next one! Thanks to all for the inspiration.

20160904_210754.jpg
20160905_065039.jpg
20160905_070620.jpg
20160905_074011.jpg
20160905_080052.jpg
20160905_082223.jpg
20160905_083744.jpg

**TrailSlug** · 09-05-2016, 18:36

Nice. How many miles was this in total? What were the temps like at night? I can't wait for some cool temps!

**oldpappy** · 09-05-2016, 19:31

Now that's the way to do it - maybe start a little earlier next time and set-up in time to watch the sun set :>)

P.S. I was just off the AT near Mary's Rock (RT211) at the same time for a quick overnighter - I just got back.

**neslog** · 09-05-2016, 20:24

I will have to look for total mileage. I believe it was high 80's during day on the mountain and down to low-mid 50's. It was a brisk morning but no need for a jacket or long sleeves. Especially after hiking, kept me cool enough to keep a good pace the whole time. Yes, it brought the stink out of me. Especially the Roller Coaster section!

**neslog** · 09-05-2016, 20:25

Nice! I grew up in Warrenton. Love the country out that way!

**neslog** · 09-05-2016, 20:53

Looks like total of about 12 miles. About 5.5 first evening and 6.5 the next morning. A lot more than I had planned. Have to admit took some fun out of the hike hurrying, but made me realize what I could really do.