Damascus to Mt. Rogers??

“I am taking a friend next week for about three days. He is in good shape but has never backpacked and I've never been up to this particular part of the AT before. How much ground is reasonable to expect to cover? (He also is a picture-taker, so that might have to be factored in.)

I think we were planning to park in Damascus and take a shuttle up but I'm not sure where to go or how much time we'll need to finish. We'll get to Damascus early Thursday afternoon and need to be back about noon-ish on Sunday. Any advice on where to stay, where to get dropped off, etc. is welcome.”

“Contact Mount Rogers Outfitters there in Damascus, they will shuttle you , have parking, and have all the details........Dave or Tom Davenportis are the Experts there , ask for them if possible....let them know the refrigerator sent you ,They will give you a better deal.

276-475-5416
last edited: 5/30/07 4:34:55 AM”

“frankly with a first time backpacker in the group I would not try to do as much as you have outlined but rather I would suggest parking at Grayson Highlands SP or if your car can handle rather rough and rocky roads parking at Scales then doing a loop hike making sure to hit Wilburn Ridge on a good day for the photos.”

“You may want to get a shuttle up to Elk Garden and start from there. That would reduce your mileage and make it easier on your inexperienced hiker. I think all of that area is moderate, but I do a lot of hiking and backpacking. You definitely want to get the shuttle up and end up in Damascus. That way gravity help you.
Also, if you take that route with an inexperience backpacker, there are several bail-out points on the trail and you can always shift to the Virginia Creeper Trail for an easy walk out. It is a good area for wildflowers and such.”

“If he is a picture taker you are doomed ie bring a lawn chair you can carry and set up quickly.`

Difficult to estimate speed with a person who has never backpacked. The words "good shape" are relative to your frame of reference.
Its 24 miles and 2 shelters between Elk Garden and Damascus. Sounds like tent carrying.

You can wander for days in Grayson Highlands and you may be able to get away without bringing a tent as there are 3 shelters.

I concure with frig. Arrange a shuttle with MRO and make a plan when you get there and talk to Jeff et al. If you go and plan to hang around the Highlands you will not need a shuttle.
last edited: 5/30/07 7:32:21 PM”