Trip Report: Grayson Highlands Backpacking 2020

See accompanying write up for the Truck-In group

On August 22 and 23 a group of backpackers went on a hike at Grayson Highlands State Park in Virginia. Another group went as well, but they went on a truck-in camp out.

The truck-in people set up their camp once they got there. After that they got busy with requirements and other activities. They also went on two different day hikes. Dylan L. led the campfire for the truck-in group. Then in the morning Tanner M. led the church service for the truck-in attendees.  (my younger brother attended this part of the trip) 

The hike was a 9 miles round trip. The hike was really fun. The hikers got to see many wild ponies and wild cows.  After about a mile we stopped and ate lunch on the rock.  Half way through the hike we took a break and did a few orientation requirements with Mr. Smith. Then we started hiking again after a nice break and lesson. We learned leave no trace , and many scouts had opportunity to work on several different requirements for both advancements and merit badges. We had elevation changes , and multiple water crossing both with and without bridges. 

We learned how to pump and filter our water to make it clean and drinkable. Then we stopped and took a break before we headed up the big hill. After we made it up the hill we were right next to the campsite. Once we made it to the campsite everyone set up their dining fly , tents and hammocks. Then we made dinner as it was pouring. Then it stopped raining and we had a nice campfire led by Bennet S..

We all woke up in the morning and packed up. Then we started to hike after we had a good breakfast. On the way back Caleb M. led the church service for the backpackers. A good ways into our hike we stopped and at lunch. It was an easy and quick lunch so we could get back on the trail. After we made it back we met with the truck-in campers and headed home.

Overall the troop 48 Grayson Highlands trips was a great success.