Massanutten: Meneka Peak and Signal Knob (Rating: A+)

REQUIRED: You must read the following NVHC Sign-in Sheet Statement/Liability Disclaimer, https://nvhc.com/signin.pdf and then answer the question that you will see when you RSVP with "I accept" to be permitted on the hike.

DIFFICULTY AND ROUTE: This hike is rated A+ (most difficult.). It covers 12 miles with 2610' elevation gain on the often rocky and steep Massanutten Mountain near Strasburg in the George Washington & Jefferson National Forests. It features sweeping views from Signal Knob, used as a signal relay station during the Civil War, and elsewhere. We will hike the loop counter-clockwise, going first to Meneka Peak and then to Signal Knob, before continuing around. Note that this is NOT the normal route that you may be used to.

BRING: water, snacks, lunch, hiking boots/shoes, and first aid kit. Bring rain gear regardless of the forecast. Bring a headlamp, in case we're out later than planned.

WINTER: It may be cold out, but we are likely to get sweaty climbing, then face wind on the peaks and ridges. Bring layers of clothing. Some areas may be wet or icy and steep. We may need microspikes or similar traction devices.

DOGS: Dogs are welcome in accordance with the NVHC Dog Policy. https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy.
I plan to bring my dog. If you also bring a dog, please message me first and be certain it is friendly to other dogs.

FEES: No entrance or parking fees.

PACE: We will hike at a vigorous 2.7 mph on average, but more slowly on steep or slippery terrain. We will regroup at intersections, but expect a challenging pace.

RSVP: If your plans change and you cannot come, change your RSVP promptly, so that another hiker may take your place.

MEET: Meet at the carpool location at 6:30 to depart at 6:45. Meet at the trailhead at 7:45. We hike at 8:00.
Signal Knob Trailhead 11621 Fort Valley Rd · Fort Valley, GPS coordinates: 38.93498, -78.31996 I will be in a silver/grey Kia Sorrento SUV.

MAPS: Each hiker must have a map is responsible for following the route. Recommended maps include:

-- PATC Map G: https://potomactrailclub.app.neoncrm.com/np/clients/potomactrailclub/product.jsp?product=20&catalogId=2&

-- Download this GPX route to a GPS app: https://caltopo.com/m/DEHS

-- Print this route diagram: https://caltopo.com/p/G00PA

CARPOOLING: Meet at Centreville Park and Ride at 6:30 to leave at 6:45.
Neither the Club nor the hike leader is responsible for coordinating transportation to/from the trailhead. Hikers are not guaranteed to get a ride to the trailhead from the carpool location. Carpooling is organized by the participants and they participate at their own risk. Suggested carpool fee: $7.00 per rider. The hike leader will be at the carpool location.

Leader: Mark R. 703-216-5318.