I woke up early at Rock Spring Hut this morning. Four other hikers and I wanted to get to Shenandoah’s Skyland Resort in time to order breakfast. We pass by a restaurant or Wayside almost daily since we entered the park, and stocking up on their food helps me stretch my resupply to Harpers Ferry.
Shenandoah Horses
Just before arriving at the resort, we walked through Skyland Stables. A member of staff offered to let us pet the horses and they were very friendly. Some even smiled to take selfies with us.
Skyland Resort
We arrived for breakfast before closing and I ordered a meal and a latte. There was a lot of movement inside and the summer holidays are in full swing. It makes me realize how long I’ve been on the road. From early spring with bare trees until now. I spent some time in the resort lobby, drinking coffee and journaling, before returning to the trail a few hours later.
history lesson
We spent most of the day walking along Skyline Drive. As I wrote above, it is the original path of the Appalachian Trail. In 1931, the federal government began construction of Skyline Drive, displacing the existing trail. Benton MacKaye, the visionary of the original trail, strongly opposed the project. His counterpart, Myron Avery, believed that trail and road could coexist, and his pragmatism prevailed. The AT, as it exists today, was rerouted to Shenandoah. This dispute permanently divided the relationship between the two conservationists.
For this reason, when hikers walk along Skyline Drive, it is often called “retro-blazing.” This trail allows you to see the sights and overlooks of Shenandoah, as originally intended.
I know some hikers who still choose to follow the trail and others who walk along Skyline Drive in Shenandoah. I have enjoyed a good mix. A small advantage of following the path is that the magic of the trail seems to be more abundant and we received it twice today. They both provided us with fresh fruit, which becomes even more exciting as the days get longer and hotter.
Of mice and men
I end the day at the Pass Mountain Hut. I know mice are a problem in all of them, but you run around here before it gets dark. I think it might be a long night.
This website contains affiliate links, which means The Trek may receive a percentage of any products or services you purchase using links in articles or advertisements. The buyer pays the same price they would otherwise pay, and their purchase helps support The Trek’s ongoing goal of bringing you quality backpacking information and advice. Thank you for your support!
For more information, visit the About page of this site.
