Hippity Rippity Rappity Let’s go backpacking at Rip Rap!

OVERVIEW

What’s up outdoor lovers? I’ve been craving a nice little overnight backpacking trip so join me and Ed as we set out on the Rip Rap Loop for a journey consisting of walking, hiking, more walking, def some talking, hopefully some sleeping, and possibly even swimming ?? During the course of this journey, we will be sure to take many stops to see all the views there are to be viewed which in Shenandoah, are not in short supply. Overall, we seek to have a fun time in hopefully good weather!
This trip will be beginner-friendly so feel free to sign-up regardless of your backpacking ability.

The details of Rip Rap are as follows: 9.3 miles total (as a loop) but we will try to split it evenly over the two days so ~4.5 miles per day. The total elevation gain (and loss) is ~2100 ft. You can find the AllTrails here: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/virginia/riprap-trail

I will be driving but if we can get another driver, we can bring more people! So drivers get priority (as well as gas reimbursement and a tip of 50%!). If we get another driver, a SNP Pass holder will get priority!

The Plan:
Friday 4/7
Meet at Echols at 11:50 AM
Depart for SNP at 12:00 PM
Arrive at the trailhead and set out at 1 PM
Set up camp around 5 or 6 PM?
Maybe look at the stars later?

Saturday 4/8:
Wake up 6:30 (if we want to watch the sunrise)
Depart camp by 8 or 9?
Return to Trailhead by 1 or 2
Back in Cville by 3
The plan is a bit loose and if we decide we like going fast, it could be earlier but I think at the latest, we will be back by 3 PM on Saturday.

What shall you fill that old bag of yours with?
– Backpacking backpack (hit up the gear room if you don’t have one, no school backpacks!)
– Sleeping bag
– Sleeping pad
– Head lamp
– 2L of water
– Rain gear (the forecast is still early but it looks like we could possibly get wet)
– Toiletries (hand sani too)
– Clothes/Layers (it should be relatively warm but it might get cold at night and it’s better to be prepared, also avoid cotton!)
– Hiking shoes
– Sandals/flip flops/ camp shoes (if you so desire)
– A swimsuit (in case we decide to swim)
– A tent if you have one
– Food
o One dinner, one breakfast (oatmeal, peanut butter, ramen, powdered mashed potatoes, pepperoni, tortillas, any combination of the above recommended!)
o One lunch for Saturday if you would like (try to bring something that doesn’t require making, i.e. a pbj sandwich)
o Snacks
o Bowls and utensils
– Any games for camp
– A book for camp if you desire

Ed and I shall fill ours with these items for communal use:
– Stove and fuel
– Tents if we need to
– Trowel, Toilet paper
– Bear bagging bag and string
Reach out if you have any questions and I look forward to seeing your lovely faces! Check out gear room times in the weekly email if you are missing any gear.
Riley: 203-400-3997
Ed: 434-326-8868