What we’re about
A group for those who prefer getting out in nature over sitting on the couch to get together with others who also enjoy the outdoors.
Beginners and advanced adventurers are welcome, but be sure to check the event description to make sure you are up for the level of challenge and have the appropriate gear.
Backpacking is our primary focus but any activity is fair game and we are open to other organizers stepping up to help coordinate. Please reach out if you have ideas and the time to help.
Any fees paid will either go directly to the expenses of organizing the group or will be donated to charity.
Upcoming events (1)
See all- (Pre)Thanksgiving Calorie Burn!Fairfield Inn, Strasburg, VAUSD 5.00
Everyone will start as Waitlist. If I haven't backpacked with you, I'd like to quickly check that this is a suitable event for you as it is fairly difficult. If someone is struggling, it will slow down the entire group.
Burn Calories, Explore Nature: Join Us for the Wild Oak Trail Challenge
Are you ready to conquer a challenging hike and kickstart your Thanksgiving Holiday fitness goals? Join us for our annual strenuous trip. This year, the venue will be Wild Oak Trail in George Washington & Jefferson National Forest! This trail is known for an ultra marathon trail run (they do multiple loops in a single day!)This 28.5-mile loop with a whopping 7,300 feet of elevation gain will test your endurance and reward you with breathtaking views. Part of the trail runs through the Ramsey Wilderness.
### Trip Details:
- Meeting Location: Fairfield Inn, 7:45 am, 33760 Old Valley Pike, Strasburg, VA 22657
- Optional Pre-Departure Breakfast: 7:00 am, Strasburg Diner, 119 Hite Ln, Strasburg, VA 22657
- Hiking Difficulty: Extremely Difficult, not suitable for beginners or intermediate hikers.
- Mileage: 28.5 miles (8.8/11/8.5)
- Elevation: 7,500 ft!!!
- Hiking Plan: Hiking Upward Wild Oak Hike
- T's & C's: Dave's Standard Trip Warnings & Requirements
Key Highlights:
- Challenging Terrain: Tackle steep climbs and stunning vistas on this demanding hike.
- Group Camaraderie: Connect with like-minded adventurers and share unforgettable experiences.
- Fitness Boost: Burn off those holiday calories and get a head start on your fitness goals.
Requirements:
- Physical Fitness: Participants should be comfortable hiking 15-20 miles per day with significant elevation gains.
- Backpacking Experience: Unfortunately, this is not a beginner friendly trip. Backpackers should be comfortable with their gear and possibly setting it up after sunset.
- Flexible Schedule: Be prepared to take Monday off work for this three-day adventure.
- Unsure??: Feel free to message me if you are unsure about your ability. I've hiked this before and can provide more detail on what to expect.
### Trip Essentials:
- Backpacking Gear suitable for chilly evenings
- Headlamp: That can be used for hiking as the days will be really short.
- Clothing: Think Layers! Check out my Cold Weather Backpacking tips & tricks for ideas.
- Food: Cold lunches and hot meals at the campsite! We will try to be done prior to lunch on Monday.
- Water Cache: Bring a large bottle of water to hide at a midpoint water cache as the second night will have a dry campsite. I suggest a 1-gallon milk-style container as they can be easily crushed.
- Extra Water Storage: Both campsite will be dry. The extra storage can begin empty and we will fill up at the last opportunity. I will share the exact mileage we will need to carry before the next source.
- Car Clothes for ride home: Don't forget a bag to put your hiking shoes in and a change of clothes for the drive home. Plus deodorant :-). We will stop for lunch on our drive home.
- Money: For the drivers' gas.
Weather & Such:
- Weather Link for West Augusta, VA
- Sunset Saturday Evening: 5:01 pm
- Sunrise Sunday Morning: 7:07 am
Join us for an unforgettable experience and conquer the Wild Oak Trail!
Questions? Feel free to message me!!!
Dogs? I don't think this is a dog-friendly trip, but am open to discussing.The $5 non-refundable fee covers this group's annual MeetUp fees.
