Book Club Beginner Backpacking!!

OVERVIEW

CALLING ALL GREMLINS WHO LOVE BOOKS!
This is an idea I’m STOKED about. We are going to read Into the Wild by John Krakauer (on our own), hike the Cedar Run and Whiteoak Canyon loop, stopping in the middle to set up camp, and discuss the book over communal dinner, and hanging out before sleep. This hike has some of the most spectacular waterfalls in the Shenandoah National Park. Combining two out-and-back hikes, White Oak Canyon & Cedar Run, this loop starts at the bottom of the valley and cuts over near the top of the ridge. With five major falls, numerous smaller cascades and pools, this circuit hike is one of the best. It IS a little strenuous (check out the link below) but I will take plenty of breaks. Drivers and beginners will be prioritized off the waitlist.
Link to info: https://myhikes.org/trails/white-oak-canyon-and-cedar-run-hike

Here’s the plan:
Saturday, 09/13:
2:00 pm: Depart Charlottesville and drive to Falls Hollow Trailhead (1 hr)
3 pm: Hike <5 miles along the trail 6-6:30 pm: Set up camp 6:30 pm: Cook dinner, eat 8:00 pm-whenever: Have fun! Climb the tower, sit back, watch the stars Sunday, 09/14: 8:00 am: Wakey-wakey! Eat quick and pack up 8:30 am: Hike back to the car <5 miles, it's all downhill 11:30 pm: Depart for Cville 1:30 pm: We’re done! Stop reading and sign up :] What to bring: -Your copy of Into the Wild -Backpack -Tent (though feel free to join my cowboy camping) -Sleeping bag and pad -Hiking shoes -2 lunches, 1 breakfast, and snacks -Bowl & utensils -Camp entertainment (book, journal, cards, etc.) - Headlamp -WATER (shoot for 2-3 liters but water will probably be available on trail) What I’ll also bring: -First aid kit -Bear bag supplies - Communal dinner supplies - Water filter If this is your first time backpacking, feel free to ask me any questions about gear - 2038051195. I host my gear room at 12:30 on Tuesday if you need additional help.