Mount Rogers VA hammocking (and water) questions

[jdy98p]

I’m going out this coming weekend with two other guys for a 2-night backpacking trip. We’ve all done it before...10+ years ago pre-kids. Since kids it’s been day hikes and car camping. We’re driving out from just outside of DC on the VA side.

This trip will be about getting back out, playing with new gear, and generally setting ourselves up to do it more often. I’m planning the trip, and had been looking to do a 14-20 mile circuit in Shenandoah National Park, but then I came across a couple of the Mount Rogers Trail circuits that hit about 20 miles...and I’m more than a little interested in calling an audible to go there instead. It looks amazing!

All three of us are hammock camping and should be ok for the weather (forecast says lows of about 28*, which we know might mean 18* in the backcountry).

1) Based on what I’ve read, hang spots shouldn’t be that tough to find, but I’d like confirmation...?

2) How available are water sources? I’ll have a SteriPEN due to temps, but I’d like to know if carrying in 2 liters each is enough with refill stops, or if we’d need more water carried.

3) How does a mid-November trip affect the answer to #2?

Thanks in advance.


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[BuckeyeFan]

jdy97p,
I've been to Mt Rogers a handful of times, most recently last year. What route are you looking to do?

#1: Finding a place to hang wasn't a problem. In fact, the area around Thomas Knob Shelter had a variety of spots, but other hangers were set up before we arrived.

2: As for water, we started with water bladders filled, and had no problems finding water. Just to be safe, I'd suggest calling the ranger station to verify water availability.

3: I can't provide any personal experience for the area in November. However, the weather in that area can change quickly, so prepare for all weather varieties, including snow and high winds.

Good luck with your hike and please provide a post-trip report

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[TallPaul]

I like Mountain-Forecast to check the temp and wind. Gotta watch the wind up there as it can be a game changer.
You can toggle between different elevations to get an idea of temp/wind ranges.
https://www.mountain-forecast.com/pe...forecasts/1746

You should be ok to find spots to hammock especially since you aren’t covering big miles.

And I don’t have any experience on mid-November up there. Figure I’d freeze my butt off - but then again I’m not used to cold weather camping (yet).

[soul embrace]

there is a water source behind Thomas knob shelter. there is also a spring a half mile south (according to the 2016 AT Guide) on the AT from the MT. Rogers spur trail.

[jdy98p]

So after getting all excited, I’ll have to push Mt Rogers to spring. Ends up that the extra 3 hours on the drive will push us too late into the afternoon on Friday, unless I can get the morning off work instead of just the afternoon.

But THANK YOU for the responses. I’ll keep this post saved for (hopefully) a March trip.


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[Rockdawg69]

So after getting all excited, I’ll have to push Mt Rogers to spring. Ends up that the extra 3 hours on the drive will push us too late into the afternoon on Friday, unless I can get the morning off work instead of just the afternoon.

But THANK YOU for the responses. I’ll keep this post saved for (hopefully) a March trip.


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If you want to try a winter hang at Grayson State Park, watch this forum for a new thread for the late Jan/early Feb annual Grayson Winter Hang.

Rain, wind, snow, fog, frozen water bottles, etc. --- fun in the park.

[HomeMadeHiker]

Same or different from the old "Mt Roger's" hang? If it's still a thing I'd really like to go.
Went to MN FBH 3 yrs in a row, but haven't been since we moved south.

[Rockdawg69]

Same or different from the old "Mt Roger's" hang? If it's still a thing I'd really like to go.
Went to MN FBH 3 yrs in a row, but haven't been since we moved south.

Same as old winter hang. Always hoping for snow and below freezing temps.

[Wesleypipesyo]

So after getting all excited, I’ll have to push Mt Rogers to spring. Ends up that the extra 3 hours on the drive will push us too late into the afternoon on Friday, unless I can get the morning off work instead of just the afternoon.

But THANK YOU for the responses. I’ll keep this post saved for (hopefully) a March trip.


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I am going to Sleepy Creek on the 14th. There will not be much of a hike. But it should be quiet and cold. You guys are welcome to join me. At this point my plan is to sit by the fire and read for two days. And cook means on a fire.

[jdy98p]

I am going to Sleepy Creek on the 14th. There will not be much of a hike. But it should be quiet and cold. You guys are welcome to join me. At this point my plan is to sit by the fire and read for two days. And cook means on a fire.

Honestly, I'd be all over that if my December schedule wasn't so packed with kid's events and Christmas. And Dec 15 is my anniversary, so there's that too

Thanks for the invite. Maybe after the new year or spring we can work something out.