I’m looking for a 3 day backpack over memorial day weekend to do with my 13 year old son. I met one of last years thru-hikers at Galyans and she suggested this forum. I’m in Ohio, but was thinking of driving to Shenandoah area tonight (Friday).
Is Shenandoah just too packed this weekend to even do some side trails off the AT?
Thanks.
Phil
Shenandoah, because it is a Natioanl Park, will be more crowded and require more regristration effort than other places in National Forests immediately to the North and south.
I, personally, would go to a nearby non-park area along the AT. You can get maps at a gear store, and find plenty of places from which to pick up the trail in a national forest section. You should expect crowds regardless. Keep an eye out for photographers working on the AT photo project this weekend!
I’m heading off to the Georgia AT in the morning myself. Enjoy the long weekend my friends!
Tha Wookie
If you’re in Ohio, as we are, there are plenty of over nighters. Zaleski, yeah everyone has done it, if you have the map a cool three day trip is easy. Burr Oak Trail south of Columbus is sweet. Not very long but for a young teen it would be nice. More info needed? The wife and kids just got back from the Grayson Highlands in Va, a short loop over the weekend was very fun; wild ponies, good weather etc.
Bushwhack and Bramble
good luck with your long Memorial Day wkend hike!
my wife & i plan a Long weekend (a 3 day hike) beginning @ the start of the all new (but, not yet completed) Cumberland Trail. (Signal Mtn near Chattanooga,TN)
We plan a loop from Signal Mtn (the trail-head start & hike approx 10 miles north to a campsite…then approx 8 miles the following day & then a long hike back to our car the last day!
“Jaybird”