Virginia Triple Crown Backpacking

OVERVIEW

I’ve been looking to do the full Triple Crown Loop for a long time, and with the forecast projecting freaky high temps for this time of year I want to take advantage of it. We’ll be doing the full loop (~34 miles) over the course of 3 days at a relatively moderate pace – I love backpacking but I’m not particularly fast. The route takes us through McAfee Knob, Tinker Cliffs, and Dragon’s Tooth, and the fall colors will be near their peak! I’ll labeled the trip intermediate because I don’t think this would be a great introduction to backpacking but given how split up the mileage anyone who is decently in shape will be able to complete it. Should be an incredible trip with fantastic views!

What to bring:
Pack
Sleeping bag
Sleeping pad
Tent (I will coordinate once people sign up)
Warm clothes (temps in high 40s at night)
Headlight
4 liters of water capacity
Bowl/utensil
Food (Bring your own, 2 dinners 2 breakfasts 2 lunches and any snacks)
Hiking shoes + socks
Toiletries
Rain gear(jacket, pack fly/trash bag)

I’ll bring:
Stove/fuel
Water Filter/Purification
Trowel/TP
Lighter
First Aid
Bearbag/rope

Itinerary
Friday
2:00 PM: Depart Echols
4:00 PM: Arrive at McAfee Knob trailhead and start hiking counterclockwise
6:30 PM: Finish 5 miles to Pig Farm or Campbell Shelter, maybe see sunset on McAfee?
Saturday
7:00 AM: Wake up and hike back to McAfee for sunrise
8:00 AM: Start hiking for day, 4 miles to Tinker Cliffs, finish day by camping either on North Mountain Trail or Boy Scout Trail/Dragon’s Tooth intersection (big day, 17 to 23 miles depending on pace/vibe)
Sunday
7:00 AM: Wake up and hike through Dragon’s Tooth
1:30 PM: Arrive back at McAfee parking lot.
3:30 PM: Arrive back on grounds.

*DRIVERS WILL GET PRIORITY OFF THE WAITLIST!!* Anyone willing to drive will receive priority off the waitlist along with full gas reimbursement and a 50% tip.