Grayson Highland winter hang

[WV]

Little_Wilson_Creek_hike.jpgIf the weather looks okay, I plan to arrive Thursday and do this Little Wilson Creek hiking loop before joining the festivities Friday or Saturday. It's only 12 miles, but there are four stream crossings, and I'd like to take my time and do it right. I expect it will be a solo trip (not bringing my dog - she gets cold too easily), but if anyone wants to come along, they'd be welcome.

[slowhike]

Little_Wilson_Creek_hike.jpgIf the weather looks okay, I plan to arrive Thursday and do this Little Wilson Creek hiking loop before joining the festivities Friday or Saturday. It's only 12 miles, but there are four stream crossings, and I'd like to take my time and do it right. I expect it will be a solo trip (not bringing my dog - she gets cold too easily), but if anyone wants to come along, they'd be welcome.

Hey Dave, good to hear from you.
If I'm not mistaken and you are probably already aware, at least one of those creeks require walking through, unless there is a better crossing up or down stream.
I've wondered at times the best way to cross a creek like that in really cold temps.
I have herd people talk about changing to water shoes and putting dry socks and shoes on after crossing... BURRRRR.
I guess if it's not to deep or swift a person might were waterproof boots.
How do you do it?

I'm off to start the planning thread now.

[slowhike]

Here is a link to the planning thread.
https://www.hammockforums.net/forum/...63#post2003663
Please let me know if anything needs changing.
Thanks.

[WV]

Hey Dave, good to hear from you.
If I'm not mistaken and you are probably already aware, at least one of those creeks require walking through, unless there is a better crossing up or down stream.
I've wondered at times the best way to cross a creek like that in really cold temps.
I have heard people talk about changing to water shoes and putting dry socks and shoes on after crossing... BURRRRR.
I guess if it's not to deep or swift a person might were waterproof boots.
How do you do it?

I start by being prepared to turn back at any point, the first such instance being when checking the weather report before I leave home. If it looks bad I'll cancel the hike and just come for the fun and fellowship at the campground. As you know I had the fun of wading Quebec Branch 5 years ago after our mini-ordeal in rain and ice on Wilburn Ridge, and I learned afterwards that what I should have done was to take off my boots, roll up my pants, and wade the creek wearing heavy wool socks, then immediately dry off and put on dry socks and boots. I may hike in a kilt this year. I expect to wade at least once if I do the whole hike, and I'm trying to identify points where I might choose to change my plans and figure out what to do next. This follow-up thread on hypothermia that Doctari started is very good. Even those just planning to dayhike at Mt. Rogers would do well to read the first 3 or 4 pages of this very long thread. Don't be alarmed; be prepared.
David

[slowhike]

Very good advice Dave.
Thanks.