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 ChisholmThis is such a good value. A lightweight 1 person tent for a great price. I like it for solo missions to fish or for section hikes on the AT. With social distancing a thing, bringing your own tent on a trip with buddies makes a lot of sense.
Chapel Hill
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 ChisholmGCI updated their amazingly comfortable camp rocker with this great chair. It keeps all the rocking features of the bigger Freestyle Rocker, but is foldable into a bag so it is easy to bring everywhere. The chair sits a bit lower also so it is perfect to use around a fire pit in the back yard or deck.
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
