Katryn Stewart

Katryn Stewart

Backpack around Lake Moomaw

04/18/17

This is not an easy hike. It is 3.3 miles of uphill both ways (6.6 miles total), but it is worth it. The hike itself is beautiful, but with a pack on your back, it's tiring. It took me 2.5 hours to do it, but half of the kids I took made it in less than 2. We drove up Friday evening, spent a night at Bolar Mt Campground (recommend #3, since that's where the trailhead is) then 7 kids aged 7-14, 2 dogs, and I hit the trail with our packs to spend Saturday night at Greenwood Point. Each kid carried their own bag/tent/gear, so that gives you an idea of ability. Greenwood Pt is breathtaking. The boys took fishing poles and spent the day fishing; girls played on the beach. I relaxed by the fire. No problems with bears or other critters. Didn't see a single other person on the trail out or back on Sunday, although there were some campers who had boated in. Loved the seclusion. Please don't litter on the trail!!! (Obviously there had been some trail use due to the water bottles we picked up.) Overall, your calves will burn, you will hate your love of hiking at at least one point on the trail when you are hauling yourself up a 65 degree slope (I may or may not be exaggerating), but you'll be glad you did it in the end. I second the other review in that Lake Moomaw is truly one of the most beautiful spots in Virginia.

5.0