Trayfoot Mountain-Paine Run Loop - Shenandoah National Park

 We lucked out on our trip to Trayfoot Mountain.  We had no idea upon arrival that it was National Public Lands Day when we did this hike, so the entrance fee to the national park was waived.  The best payoff of this hike was at mile ~1.25, but the whole thing was pleasant.  There were two overlooks, a few nice creek crossings, and a very nice cleared backcountry camping area near one of the creeks.

We followed the directions found on Hiking Upward: https://www.hikingupward.com/SNP/TrayfootMountainPaineRun/

Approaching Blackrock summit ~1.25 miles into the trip

View from Blackrock Summit.  This area was quite popular because of the rock scrambling, gorgeous views, and proximity to the parking area

Looking towards Buzzard Rock (to the left in this photo).  Smaller viewpoint than Blackrock summit, but also nice.

The creek near our campsite

 

Rock Castle Gorge

 It had been years since we had done Rock Castle Gorge!  This time, we parked at Rocky Knob campground (i.e. "car camping" campground) on the Blue Ridge Parkway and took the ~3 mile hike into the gorge before spending the night at the backcountry campground near the base of the gorge.  Note that although the "backcountry" campground doesn't have running water, it does include bear vaults, fire pits, and a porta john so it's a nice "beginner" backpacking option.  There is also a parking lot that brings you within a few tenths of a mile of the "backcountry" campground.  Also note - you need to pick up a free permit from Rocky Knob campground if staying in the backcountry space.

The campsite at the base of the gorge

Honey and I nearing the end of the hike

Casey and pup nearing the end of the hike