Grayson Highlands to Damascus

[orangebug]

not a bad dad at all. but teach the kids to feed ALL animals not just ponies. bears included

LOL! The bears just seem so jumpy and scared around me. Haven't been able to hand feed them ever!

It is fun in Spring to set up near salt blocks and enjoy pony visits during the night.

[George]

when the ponies bite at you a backhand swat to the nose should send them away, otherwise they may follow you and keep biting at your stinky pack and body

[Tuckahoe]

What sort of weather should I plan for in October?

[Marta]

The high numbers could probably be in the 70s during the day, and sunny. There is a lot of unshaded walking, so a broad-brimmed hat would be good.

On the cold side, it could be wet and very windy, and excellent hypothermia weather (40s). It could easily get down around freezing at night, depending on the altitude you're sleeping at, and whether you're sheltered from the wind.

[Marta]

PS--Check the hunting seasons around your exact dates. Wear blaze orange!!!

[Tuckahoe]

Already checked Virginia hunting regulations and other than archery archery season, firearms hunting does not begin until the end of October 30 for some areas of the state.

[gsctx]

I know this is kind of an old thread and not sure anyone is still checking it but I'm bringing a group of 10 girls scouts and six adults up in a couple weeks and we're hoping to do the section from Grayson to Damascus in four days. The girls are 12- 18 yrs old and have all done at least a weekend backpacking trip. I'd love any advice on this section - mileage, camping spots that could accomodate us all, water, opinions on whether this would be a good section for us... Thanks in advance! Happy trails to you all!