Roots and Rocks Adventures, LLC

Triple Crown weekend!!

We found a sweet little campsite on a farm in Elliston VA that we used as a base camp for the weekend. Our site was right on the Roanoke River and it was really quite peaceful, aside from the apparently nearby coal train that ran all day and night. 🥴 The owner was a really nice guy, and his 3 Great Pyrenees dogs "protected us" from the mama bear and her cubs who lived nearby. 😜

On Friday we hiked out & back to McAfee K**b & Tinker Cliffs. (11 1/2 hours, 20 miles, and 4,800ft total elevation gain! 😅) The views were absolutely amazing!! Along the way, we found little surprises everywhere. A seesaw, butterflies, deer, squirrels, flowers, and more. And, of course, John found plenty of people to talk to. 😆

On Saturday we finished the third peak at Dragon's Tooth (3 1/2 hours, 5 miles, 1,429ft total elevation gain). Basically, you apparently climb rocks the whole way up on that one. 😅 Then we celebrated with a beer flight at Iron Tree Brewing and Jerk Chicken from a food truck.

What are you planning for your next adventure? We'd love to join you! 🎉 

Winter hiking in Shenandoah National Park? Be prepared! Cold temperatures, icy trails, and changing weather can turn a beautiful winter hike into a challenge if you’re not ready. Before you hit the trails in the park, make sure your pack includes these winter essentials:

Insulated, waterproof boots
Traction (microspikes or crampons)
Moisture-wicking base layers
Warm mid-layers + windproof shell
Hat, gloves, and extra socks
Navigation (map, compass, or GPS)
Headlamp + extra batteries (short daylight!)
Plenty of water & high-energy snacks
Emergency kit (first aid, whistle, space blanket)

Be sure to visit our website for more information about how to experience winter in the park: https://www.nps.gov/shen/planyourvisit/winter.htm

Preparation is key! Hike smart, check the forecast, and always tell someone your plan. What’s your must-have winter hiking gear?

Image: Traction device on a boot for winter hiking.

Despite the colder temperatures, winter is still a great time to explore Shenandoah National Park. Whether you are the sole explorer on a mountain top or trekking to experience a frozen waterfall, hiking during the winter can be exciting. However, it is essential to remember a few winter hiking tips before venturing into these winter wonderlands.

- Bring the right gear. Extra layers of waterproof/warm clothing, snacks and water, flashlights, and traction devices if you will be walking on snow or ice.

- Know your route. Snow-covered landscapes can look very different than they do in the summer. Don’t rely on your cell phone for directions -- always carry a map and compass (or GPS).

- Check the weather. Here in the park, weather conditions can change quickly. Be aware of local forecasts before venturing out.

- Know the trail conditions: Stop at the visitor center at Big Meadows and ask a ranger about the trail conditions.

Image: Snowy mountaintop view overlooking the valley and rolling hills below. Hightop Mountain Summit taken in 2021.