Here’s a loop recommended by Backpacker magazine a few years back that includes the grail of Shenandoah hiking and much more. Start with a little history by hiking from Skyline Drive down to Corbin Cabin, which dates to 1909 and provides a glimpse into the Shenandoah’s pre-park past. Continue down the Nicholson Hollow Trail and pick up the Ridge Trail to climb over Old Rag, at 3,291 feet, and its associated ledges, which require some scrambling (it’s especially important to have a balanced pack on this hike). Relief comes in the form of a descent down the Old Rag Fire Road.
Expert Picks
Rich ChisholmSuch an easy and fast way to purify water on the trail or on a trip. Easily the fastest and most user friendly water treatment system I have used.
Chapel Hill
Rich ChisholmA beach and festival chair that has everything. UPF 50+ adjustable sun shade, aluminum frame for corrosion resistance, and pack straps to get you to the beach with your hands free. The back pocket is even big enough for your towel and favorite book.
Chapel Hill
Rich ChisholmThis trekking pole hits a sweet spot between price and performance. I love the comfortable and lightweight grip and the Leki adjustment system is intuitive and super secure.
Chapel Hill
Rich ChisholmIt’s great to find Gregory quality in an adjustable pack for young adults. With a 70L capacity it is good to go for an extended trip or for when you want to bring more comforts from home. The plush hip belt makes carrying everything so much more comfortable.
Chapel Hill
Rich ChisholmI bought this for my daughter to get into backpacking and it has been perfect. The fit is excellent and the build quality lets her carry her stuff in comfort. Several trips later she still loves to backpack and that is the best feature.
Chapel Hill
Rich ChisholmLightweight enough to stuff in your pack for summer backpacking but comfortable enough for backyard camp outs with the family, these bags are so versatile and comfortable you’ll want to take them on every outing.
Chapel Hill
Scott WoodThis is the perfect carry on for someone who wants to move fast and skipp the wheeled bag. It carries great as a pack but had good handles for hand carrying when needed. It’s just the right size and shape for the overhead, so you aren’t that guy trying to put a square peg in a round whole while everyone else waits.
Raleigh
Scott WoodThis is a full on backpacking boot that definitely retains the Salomon running DNA. Because it’s a bit higher than some modern boots but super comfortable, this is my go to boot for off trail use in rugged terrain with or without a pack, but it’s light enough to be at home on a well maintained trail as well.
Raleigh
