Hello, I am new to the forums, and to backcountry in general. I have done 20+ years of car camping, and now that I am in a better positon to collect light & fast gear, I am looking forward to taking the show on the road.
This brings up my big question: Where do I go?
I am living in the Northern VA area, near Washington, DC. I am familiar with places to car camp (have been on many a trip to places like Wolf Gap, Matthew's Arm, Little Bennett, etc.), but where are some good locations within a half-day drive where a relative newbie can enjoy the quiet and solitude of the backcountry?
Not sure about the "half day drive" limit, but how about Shenandoah National Park, or the Mt. Rogers/Grayson Highlands area near Damascus, VA.? You should also be within a quick drive of lots of the Appalachian Trail.
i lived in the N. Va area for a few years, and we had awesome trips by going to W Va, places like dolly sods, and Cranberry Galdes. There are some really amazing places very close! Get involved with some of the local stores, and scope out trip reports for you geographical area. Also dig up all the local guidebooks for some info nuggets. Three hours tops for driving time should put you in some sweet country.
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I dare you to move, like today never happened... -Switchfoot-
I have heard that Dolly Sods is a great place--especially for winter/snow backcountry. I think I will look more into that one for sure. West Virginia has some great places that I have hiked and cross-country skied, so that sounds like some good territory to explore further.
Has anyone done any backcountry in MD or PA? Anything there to check out?
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