On Top of the World

Sub-freezing temps and wind didn't keep us from persevering to the mountain top with a DC gov group for this spectacular sunset. Good times.


Off the beaten trail there is much to see. Here's a section of the seldem seen Greasy Falls in the north district.

Frosty Mtn Air

These days the air seems as clear as the mornings are cool. With the leaves recently vacating the high peaks new views appear on the trail like frosty footprints. The Indian summer has ended and we at SMG are loving the crispness of the fall.


Passed this talus slope still covered in frost at around 10:30am on the 23rd.




Long evening shadows on Old Rag after a rainy Mt. Steward training day.

Fall Findings

There's a lot of falling water like this in SNP and these spots are only getting nicer as the leaves get brighter.



Watched this five foot black snake down climb the slippery river rock without the advantage of sticky rubber shoes, or feet, but he was really good at smearing (climbing technique)!



Had a great night out just off the AT in Md complete with late nite games around the table.

Famous Days

What a great long hike with some famous folks from the Netherlands (sorry I can't put their names online). We all very much enjoyed the motivated hike over Old Rag, up the fire road, and down Corbin run. Unfortunately all our searching for bear was to no avail, but the gaggle of turkey was very cool to see. The friendship and foliage weren't to shabby either.

Come get it

Fall fireworks are here, come check them out.



These Jenkins hollow ruins are worth checking out as well.

News from the Bear Loop

Noticed four separate bear on the Oct 2 bear loop hike! With so many bear in a small area it's no surprise to see this warning sign. But if you look close at the sign what may surprise you, are the two camo stick bugs.(click on the pic to blow it up)



Our fourth bear of the day, and unlike the first three this one (the biggest) was not afraid. We slowly walked the trail, snapping pictures and passing while the bear rooted around and wrestled a log for the grubs it hid underneath.



We must have mossied a little to slow because just after this picture the bear stomped his paw at us in agitation. Trying not to look directly into his eyes (a sign of aggression) we moved on down the trail. He stomped both front paws a second time and we were glad to be out of there and to notify others on the trail along the way.

Outdoor art

Here's some pieces I liked from the Hikers Art Show held in Shenandoah this week. Too cool to leave behind, I picked up my copies with a point and shoot. There's much more to see, if you can make it out to the show!