News from the Valley Trails
Southern Shenandoah Valley Chapter of PATC
July 2020 Newsletter
Welcome to our newsletter for July, 2020. We hope that you all are doing well. As trails and gatherings begin to open again, we hope to plan some work trips and hikes soon.
If you have a Facebook page, be sure to look for and like our page, PATC Southern Shenandoah Valley Chapter. On there, we will try to post updates as we have them. If you don't already receive them, you can also subscribe to our email blast by using the link on our home page: SSVC PATC
If you have a Facebook page, be sure to look for and like our page, PATC Southern Shenandoah Valley Chapter. On there, we will try to post updates as we have them. If you don't already receive them, you can also subscribe to our email blast by using the link on our home page: SSVC PATC
Schedule ideas
We would love to add some worktrips and hikes to our schedule.
Trail Maintainers: Summer means warmer weather which brings the potential for damaging thunderstorms and increased growth of vegetation along the trails. If you are a trail maintainer and would like help on your trail, please contact Jean Stephens at jtstephens12@yahoo.com or 443-986-5649. She will help plan a worktrip with you or find volunteers to assist you.
Hike Leaders: If you feel comfortable leading a small group hike and have a hike in mind, please send an email to Pam Heinrich (pamheinrich13@gmail.com) with the specifics on the hike. We will not be posting our hikes on Meetup yet. They will only be open first to our members and then to others outside our group as the hike leader feels comfortable. If you do not feel safe leading a hike yet, that is understandable and we will not push anyone. When you are ready, let us know.
Thank you to all of you for everything you do. I hope everyone is well and looking forward to seeing everyone again.
We would love to add some worktrips and hikes to our schedule.
Trail Maintainers: Summer means warmer weather which brings the potential for damaging thunderstorms and increased growth of vegetation along the trails. If you are a trail maintainer and would like help on your trail, please contact Jean Stephens at jtstephens12@yahoo.com or 443-986-5649. She will help plan a worktrip with you or find volunteers to assist you.
Hike Leaders: If you feel comfortable leading a small group hike and have a hike in mind, please send an email to Pam Heinrich (pamheinrich13@gmail.com) with the specifics on the hike. We will not be posting our hikes on Meetup yet. They will only be open first to our members and then to others outside our group as the hike leader feels comfortable. If you do not feel safe leading a hike yet, that is understandable and we will not push anyone. When you are ready, let us know.
Thank you to all of you for everything you do. I hope everyone is well and looking forward to seeing everyone again.
ACP is Cancelled!
On July 5, Dominion Resources and Duke Energy announced they have cancelled the Atlantic Coast Pipeline. That is good news for all who enjoy hiking on our local public lands. SSVC has been very concerned about the impact of the proposed route on hiking trails, scenic viewsheds, forest ecosystems, and water quality. The route would have cut through 21 miles of the George Washington and Monongahela National Forests and would have crossed the Blue Ridge and AT near Reed’s Gap and Sherando Lake Recreation Area. On the western side of the Shenandoah Valley, it would also have crossed Hankey Mountain, the entrance road to Braley Pond, and the southern end of Shenandoah Mountain in Bath County. For the past six years, SSVC has led a hike to an overlook on Bald Ridge on New Year’s Day, thinking each time might be the last we would see this much-loved scenic view unmarred by a permanent pipeline corridor. Cancellation of the ACP means this destructive project will not harm the scenic beauty and recreational resources SSVC has enjoyed since it was formed 35 years ago. Hooray! And many thanks to all the organizations, local governments, property owners, and individuals who worked so hard to fight this unnecessary project.
The photographs below are from our New Year's Day Hike for 2020. Photo credits: Malcolm Cameron
On July 5, Dominion Resources and Duke Energy announced they have cancelled the Atlantic Coast Pipeline. That is good news for all who enjoy hiking on our local public lands. SSVC has been very concerned about the impact of the proposed route on hiking trails, scenic viewsheds, forest ecosystems, and water quality. The route would have cut through 21 miles of the George Washington and Monongahela National Forests and would have crossed the Blue Ridge and AT near Reed’s Gap and Sherando Lake Recreation Area. On the western side of the Shenandoah Valley, it would also have crossed Hankey Mountain, the entrance road to Braley Pond, and the southern end of Shenandoah Mountain in Bath County. For the past six years, SSVC has led a hike to an overlook on Bald Ridge on New Year’s Day, thinking each time might be the last we would see this much-loved scenic view unmarred by a permanent pipeline corridor. Cancellation of the ACP means this destructive project will not harm the scenic beauty and recreational resources SSVC has enjoyed since it was formed 35 years ago. Hooray! And many thanks to all the organizations, local governments, property owners, and individuals who worked so hard to fight this unnecessary project.
The photographs below are from our New Year's Day Hike for 2020. Photo credits: Malcolm Cameron
North River Trail Volunteers Have Been Working Hard
During the past four months of Covid-19 restrictions, trail maintainers for the GWNF North River District have taken the opportunity to work on their trails. Twenty trail maintainers have logged nearly 1,200 hours of volunteer work. Even though restrooms, campgrounds, and developed recreation sites were closed until recently, trails have still been open. We had permission from PATC to work under certain conditions (groups of 2-3, no carpooling, no tool sharing, social distance) that would decrease the risk for ourselves and others. Maintainers reported they saw few people out on trails during this time, making it easy to social distance and get some important work done. Some found trail work to be a great stress reliever during this difficult time.
We have a few trails left in the Ramseys Draft area that need maintainers. Please consider signing up for one:
Soon we will start organizing work crews to go out. We will observe PATC-recommended practices to avoid transmitting the virus. Our crews will provide backup to maintainers who need help with large blowdowns or vegetation.
We had planned crosscut saw training workshops for North River volunteers in April, but these had to be cancelled due to Covid. We will reschedule them as soon as conditions allow.
Many thanks to all the volunteers who are keeping trails on Shenandoah Mountain area and Elliott Knob in good shape for everyone to enjoy.
Lynn and Malcolm Cameron
PATC North River District Managers
slynncameron@gmail.com, (540) 234-6273
The photographs below are from a recent worktrip. A small crew of workers help Ron Stoltzfus remove blowdowns on Buck Mountain Trail. Photo credits: Gary Flynn and Lynn Cameron
During the past four months of Covid-19 restrictions, trail maintainers for the GWNF North River District have taken the opportunity to work on their trails. Twenty trail maintainers have logged nearly 1,200 hours of volunteer work. Even though restrooms, campgrounds, and developed recreation sites were closed until recently, trails have still been open. We had permission from PATC to work under certain conditions (groups of 2-3, no carpooling, no tool sharing, social distance) that would decrease the risk for ourselves and others. Maintainers reported they saw few people out on trails during this time, making it easy to social distance and get some important work done. Some found trail work to be a great stress reliever during this difficult time.
We have a few trails left in the Ramseys Draft area that need maintainers. Please consider signing up for one:
- Bald Ridge Trail from Dividing Ridge to Bridge Hollow. This 4.6-mile segment of Bald Ridge is on the eastern edge of Ramseys Draft Wilderness. It is used by backpackers and day hikers. Too much for one person, but consider adopting 1-2 miles of it.
- Shenandoah Mountain Trail from Ramseys Draft Trail Intersection to Freezland Flat area (about 2 miles). Remote and beautiful.
- Wild Oak Trail (Section B) from Dividing Ridge to Springhouse Ridge). This 1.8-mile stretch of trail has giant oaks, painted trilliums, and a panoramic view.
Soon we will start organizing work crews to go out. We will observe PATC-recommended practices to avoid transmitting the virus. Our crews will provide backup to maintainers who need help with large blowdowns or vegetation.
We had planned crosscut saw training workshops for North River volunteers in April, but these had to be cancelled due to Covid. We will reschedule them as soon as conditions allow.
Many thanks to all the volunteers who are keeping trails on Shenandoah Mountain area and Elliott Knob in good shape for everyone to enjoy.
Lynn and Malcolm Cameron
PATC North River District Managers
slynncameron@gmail.com, (540) 234-6273
The photographs below are from a recent worktrip. A small crew of workers help Ron Stoltzfus remove blowdowns on Buck Mountain Trail. Photo credits: Gary Flynn and Lynn Cameron
Advice on Heat Safety
Stay cool and safe when the weather is neither.
In many locations, summer is a great time for hiking. Sometimes, however, the weather can pose as many challenges as opportunities, and this is certainly true when the temperature climbs. Here are a few things you can do to stay cooler when hiking in warmer weather:
Know the danger signs.
For your own safety and the safety of those with whom you’re hiking, know what heat exhaustion and heat stroke look like and know what to do:
Heat Exhaustion:
Symptoms: pale face, nausea, vomiting, cool and moist skin, headache, cramps. (Don’t ignore a headache when hiking in hot weather! This is serious stuff. Stop. Drink. Rest.)
Treatment: drink water with electrolytes, eat high-energy foods (with fats and sugars), rest in the shade for 30-45 minutes, and cool the body by wetting it with cool water. If nausea or vomiting prevent drinking fluids, get the victim to a hospital as fluids may need to be administered intravenously.
Heat stroke:
This is a life-threatening emergency
Symptoms: flushed face, dry skin, weak and rapid pulse, high core body temperature, confusion, poor judgment or inability to cope, unconsciousness, hallucinations, seizures. Sometimes symptoms of heat stroke can mimic those of a heart attack or other conditions.
Treatment: the heatstroke victim must be cooled immediately! Continuously pour water on the victim’s head and torso, fan to create an evaporative cooling effect. Immerse the victim in cold water if possible. Move the victim to shade and remove excess clothing. The victim needs to be evacuated to a hospital. Someone should go for help while attempts to cool the victim continue.
Stay cool and safe when the weather is neither.
In many locations, summer is a great time for hiking. Sometimes, however, the weather can pose as many challenges as opportunities, and this is certainly true when the temperature climbs. Here are a few things you can do to stay cooler when hiking in warmer weather:
- Wear clothes that wick moisture away from the body (avoid cotton).
- Use sunblock – SPF 15 or higher is recommended. Apply prior to going outside.
- Soak your bandana in cool water and place it on your neck or head and the evaporation will cool you.
- Actually, jump in the water with your clothes on (not hiking boots and socks – use water shoes) and hike while wet to stay even in cooler! Get your head wet too, but don’t ingest any untreated water.
- Plan an early start for your hike, when the day is cooler, and plan so that you’re walking in more shaded areas during the hottest part of the day.
- Stay hydrated. Drink lots of water or, if you’re on a long hike, a sports drink with electrolytes.
- Hike more slowly. (Hey, it’s hot out there! Slow down and enjoy the view!)
Know the danger signs.
For your own safety and the safety of those with whom you’re hiking, know what heat exhaustion and heat stroke look like and know what to do:
Heat Exhaustion:
Symptoms: pale face, nausea, vomiting, cool and moist skin, headache, cramps. (Don’t ignore a headache when hiking in hot weather! This is serious stuff. Stop. Drink. Rest.)
Treatment: drink water with electrolytes, eat high-energy foods (with fats and sugars), rest in the shade for 30-45 minutes, and cool the body by wetting it with cool water. If nausea or vomiting prevent drinking fluids, get the victim to a hospital as fluids may need to be administered intravenously.
Heat stroke:
This is a life-threatening emergency
Symptoms: flushed face, dry skin, weak and rapid pulse, high core body temperature, confusion, poor judgment or inability to cope, unconsciousness, hallucinations, seizures. Sometimes symptoms of heat stroke can mimic those of a heart attack or other conditions.
Treatment: the heatstroke victim must be cooled immediately! Continuously pour water on the victim’s head and torso, fan to create an evaporative cooling effect. Immerse the victim in cold water if possible. Move the victim to shade and remove excess clothing. The victim needs to be evacuated to a hospital. Someone should go for help while attempts to cool the victim continue.
Trail Maintenance
The following is a message from Dave Bowen: District Manager, Shenandoah National Park South AT
First of all, I want to thank all of you who have gotten out to work on your AT sections now that the Shenandoah National Park is open. I was in the Park on Saturday, June 27 and it was very busy with parking areas like Rip Rap and Beagle Gap full and overflowing down along Skyline Drive.
I thought you’d be interested in a note that was forwarded to me from the SNP Park Service saying that between June 16th and 23rd, the SNP received 4.77 inches of rain. You know what that means – vegetation growth.
I hiked a number of sections in the District on June 15th and again on June 18th. While I did not experience any section of the trail that was impassable, I did find several sections that were very overgrown and will let the maintainers of those sections know that with a separate note. I also came across a number of blowdowns, which I noted. Some sections were also in need of a blazing refresh, as well.
So for those of you who haven’t had a chance to get up to your section, I encourage you to do so as soon as possible. We have new disinfectant and towels in the Rockfish and Simmons tool caches, with the PATC Social Distancing Volunteer plan posted in each. The Stihl line trimmers are all operational, I started all three at Rockfish on Saturday and they all have new blades and line. In addition, both caches have cans of white blazing paint although you should plan to supply your own brushes.
I know the virus lockdown has been disruptive and prevented us all from getting an early start on our trail sections. Now that the Park is resuming normal operations, we need to do that as well, under the guidance of our PATC Social Distancing Volunteer Plan.
Again, thanks for the work that you all do. I read each and every work trip report so if you run across anything that needs further attention, don’t hesitate to call it out in a work trip report. I’m retired and have a flexible schedule so I’ll be happy to help anyone out.
Have a great summer and stay safe out there!
Best Regards,
Dave
The following is a message from Dave Bowen: District Manager, Shenandoah National Park South AT
First of all, I want to thank all of you who have gotten out to work on your AT sections now that the Shenandoah National Park is open. I was in the Park on Saturday, June 27 and it was very busy with parking areas like Rip Rap and Beagle Gap full and overflowing down along Skyline Drive.
I thought you’d be interested in a note that was forwarded to me from the SNP Park Service saying that between June 16th and 23rd, the SNP received 4.77 inches of rain. You know what that means – vegetation growth.
I hiked a number of sections in the District on June 15th and again on June 18th. While I did not experience any section of the trail that was impassable, I did find several sections that were very overgrown and will let the maintainers of those sections know that with a separate note. I also came across a number of blowdowns, which I noted. Some sections were also in need of a blazing refresh, as well.
So for those of you who haven’t had a chance to get up to your section, I encourage you to do so as soon as possible. We have new disinfectant and towels in the Rockfish and Simmons tool caches, with the PATC Social Distancing Volunteer plan posted in each. The Stihl line trimmers are all operational, I started all three at Rockfish on Saturday and they all have new blades and line. In addition, both caches have cans of white blazing paint although you should plan to supply your own brushes.
I know the virus lockdown has been disruptive and prevented us all from getting an early start on our trail sections. Now that the Park is resuming normal operations, we need to do that as well, under the guidance of our PATC Social Distancing Volunteer Plan.
Again, thanks for the work that you all do. I read each and every work trip report so if you run across anything that needs further attention, don’t hesitate to call it out in a work trip report. I’m retired and have a flexible schedule so I’ll be happy to help anyone out.
Have a great summer and stay safe out there!
Best Regards,
Dave
Bridge in Harpers Ferry
We are happy to report the AT pedestrian bridge over the Potomac in Harpers Ferry reopened on July 3rd. The National Park Service has been working with CSX to repair the bridge since December 21. Early that morning, multiple cars of a train owned by CSX derailed from the railroad bridge and damaged a portion of the pedestrian footbridge.
We are happy to report the AT pedestrian bridge over the Potomac in Harpers Ferry reopened on July 3rd. The National Park Service has been working with CSX to repair the bridge since December 21. Early that morning, multiple cars of a train owned by CSX derailed from the railroad bridge and damaged a portion of the pedestrian footbridge.
Flowers along the Blue Ridge Parkway
If you are feeling a little nervous about hiking, maybe take a drive to look for wildflowers. These beautiful Canada Lilies were seen near Dripping Rocks and Hickey Springs Parking. Thanks to Claire Cline for the tips on where to find them.
Photo credit: Pam Heinrich
If you are feeling a little nervous about hiking, maybe take a drive to look for wildflowers. These beautiful Canada Lilies were seen near Dripping Rocks and Hickey Springs Parking. Thanks to Claire Cline for the tips on where to find them.
Photo credit: Pam Heinrich
