I'll be posting on this hike for the next several entries.
After the pool chores were done last Saturday, Mary and I decided to head out for a hike. This time, we selected a day hike in the SNP's Southern District, at milepost 90 - the RipRap Trail.
RipRap is the name of a type of geologic feature in the park, namely fields of small boulders, usually limestone, covered with lichen. They can make for treacherous footing, so boots are called for in these areas. The description of the trail promised a reward - besides travelling a short distance on the Appalachian Trail, the trail has a view point, and two rock formations worth a visit, Calvary Rock and Chimney Rock. Our circuit route was described as 3.5 miles with about 600 feet of elevation change.
We went into the Park at the Elkton entrance, which is at milepost 65 or so, so we had quite a long ride on Skyline Drive to get to the trailhead.
This part of the park is less crowded and more enjoyable than the Central District, probably attributable to the fact that Skyland and Big Meadow are there. But interestingly, there were more ranger patrols, who seemed to be manning speed traps; I guess that is a problem due to light traffic in this section of the park.
Near the trail head, we learned that there is a campground - Loft Mountain, and a very nice little wayside information center, store, gas station, and cafe - photos above and here. After a quick stop, we continued on the way to the trailhead, where we started our adventure for the day.
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