Beginner's Overnight: Virgin Falls Martha's Pretty Point, November 16-17, 2024

Please read the entire description before RSVP'ing.

Saturday: We will meet at 11:00 AM central time at the Scotts Gulf Wilderness State Park (formerly known as Virgin Falls State Natural Area). We will then hike down the Virgin Falls Trail, then turn right just past the Cable Crossing campsite and head up to Martha's Pretty Point. This hike is suitable for all skill levels. Please bring a map and familiarize yourself with the trail beforehand. From Martha's, those who want to can explore the area. It's about a 3 mile round trip hike to Big Laurel Falls, and about a 5 mile round trip to Virgin Falls. (NOTE: The hike down to the falls is quite strenuous, and optional).
Route Info (Gaia)

Sunday: We will complete the loop, hiking the Upland trail approximately 2.5 miles back out to the trailhead.
Route Info (Gaia)

I have reserved several sites at Martha's Pretty Point. I am holding some spots for beginners who have taken (or are enrolled in) one of my Intro to Backpacking Classes, but haven't had their free trip yet. If this applies to you, the trip is included in your class fee. It will be $8 per person for everyone else. I accept Venmo, Paypal, or CashApp. Please contact me as soon as you RSVP , or you will remain on the waitlist.

Super Important Info:

1. Whether you are a free or paid attendee, you will go to the waitlist when you RSVP.
2. In order to move to the going list, send me a text message to 931-267-9378 to a) confirm your attendance and b) make payment (where applicable). If you do not contact me when you RSVP, you will remain on the waitlist.
3. Just because the waitlist is full doesn't automatically mean the trip is full. Go ahead and contact me when you RSVP, even if you're on the waitlist. You might be pleasantly surprised.
4. Payment info:

Venmo - @BackpackerWill
Paypal - @aretebackpacking
CashApp - $BackpackerWill

Refunds - Up until 7 days before the trip, if you cancel AND someone takes your spot and pays, I will refund your fee. Within 7 days of the trip, there will be no refunds.

Weather - We will go rain or shine, unless there are dangerous storms in the forecast. It could be quite cold, so please let me know if you have any concerns or questions about your gear, or if you need anything.

Water - There is a stream near camp, but it's seasonal. The most reliable source is about 0.5 miles from camp, so you may have to carry water a short distance. Please have a filter, or some other way to purify your water.

Food Storage - There are no bears at Virgin Falls, so special food storage is not required. I do recommend some basic means to protect your food from rodents, etc.

This will be a pup- and kid-friendly trip. Feel free to bring your well-behaved doggos and kids. If you have any questions about this hike, please let me know. My phone number is 931-267-9378. Please RSVP with integrity....canceling at the last minute keeps someone else from attending.