Return to Elliot Knob (Backpacking)

OVERVIEW

Outdoorsclubians we must go back! We must return to Elliot Knob! Join me one and all as I return to the summit of Elliot Knob to crest the fire tower at its peak and look out upon the world below.

Close to Charlottesville, about an hour away, sitting at the summit of Elliot Knob lies an abandoned fire lookout tower prime for camping. In total, the hike up to the fire tower is 4 miles with 2500 ft of vertical gain, so its recommend that you are fairly comfortable with setting out on a demanding hike. But don’t let the numbers scare you away, everyone from advanced hikers to beginners are welcome!

Here’s the alltrails of the hike in case you’re interested: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/virginia/elliott-knob-trail

The plan : We’ll meet at Echols dorm at 2:00 pm, get everything loaded up and drive an hour to Craigsville, VA to begin our trip up Elliott knob. Once we’ve reached the summit we can explore the fire tower, tell some stories, and eat some dinner. After dinner we can chillax but when the stars come out we will be too! The view of the stars from the fire tower is amazing, so i’ll definitely be up to see em. Once we get our fill we’ll head off to bed and get up around 8 am-ish, eat breakfast, and head on out. We should be back in the Cville around 2 pm to pursue a rigorous academic course load! This trip is only a one nighter so only a dinner and breakfast (along with a nice helping of snacks) will be needed. Food will be done individually, but if you’re having trouble thinking of ideas for meals/getting food just let me know and i’ll help out.

This adventure starts out with everyone waitlisted, and then as drivers sign up, folks will get off the wait list. Folks who withdraw after the deadline or don’t show up, get dinged with a “No Show” in the club’s system, affecting future ability to attend trips.

Friday
2:00 pm: Meet @ corner of Echols Dorm
3:15 pm: Begin hikin
6:45 pm: Summit
7:15 pm: Dinner Time!
Saturday
12:00 am: STARS!
8:00 am: wakeup + food
8:45 am: pack up and head on down
2 pm: back @ grounds wooooo

To bring:
-backpacking backpack
-sleeping bag and sleeping pad
-WATER (3-4 Liters)
-hiking shoes
-clothes (bring layers!)
-rain jacket/ poncho
-headlamp
-dinner, breakfast, and snacks
-bowl and utensils
-trashbag to rainproof clothes and gear
-toiletries

We will bring:
– Tents (just in case other campers occupy the fire tower)
– Pocket rocket, pot, and fuel
– first aid kit

If you’re missing any gear on the list grab it from the gear room! Gear room hours are sent out via email every week and if you have any questions just text me! (703-991-3311).

**DRIVERS NEEDED** Drivers get priority off the waitlist!!! Drivers please arrive with completely full tank of gas, then the club will pay to fill up your tank upon return plus give you a 50% TIP! (max $20/driver tip).