The Green Tunnel

The Shenandoahs are sometimes referred to as 'the green tunnel'. Hiking in this forest is literally like walking in a green tunnel.  The AT part of the Shenandoahs hops back and forth across the ridge line. Skyline drive does a similar thing but with better views, flatter more even ground, gradual steady inclines or declines. In the past, skyline drive and the AT were actually the same path. 

So considering all this, I walked most of the Shenandoahs via skyline drive. My decision turned out great!

I only hiked in about 8 miles the first day. That night Teddy, Haribo, Legs, Bear Keeper, and Bear (a yorkie terrier mix) came to the same shelter. We hiked together and stopped at the first Wayside eatery in the park. After stuffing ourselves with breakfast foods I convinced Teddy to walk skyline drive with me. Not 5 miles down the road, a couple stopped and gave us some trail magic. I forced down some Oreos and a coke. We continued on. The day was filled with great views and a cool breeze. We even saw a bear! We rejoined the AT at the  closest spot to the shelter the group had planned to meet at. 

The next morning, Legs was the first to agree to the 'retro blazing' was we called it. It wasn't long before the rest of the agreed to come along. 

Wednesday my Grammy and Grandad came to Big Meadows (mid way through the park) and resupply me. They treated myself and Teddy to a great breakfast. We explored the visitors center and then they drove us down to the horse stables. 

 

 

We had a great time! Thanks Grammy and Grandad!!

Overall, the SNP proved its worth in a number of views.

 

 

 

Saw 8 bear in the SNP. That's puts me at 19 total!