October Backpacking Trip to Dolly Sods Wilderness
Dolly Sods Backpacking Trip
Columbus Day Weekend – October 8-10, 2016
This year for the first time we are going to Dolly Sods in the Fall! There are many benefits to doing it this time of year:
- There will be fewer people so we can camp in areas that are normally too crowded
- The fall colors are great
- There are increased opportunities for wildlife viewing
DETAILS: Troop 1128 is going on a 3-day backpacking trip to Dolly Sods Wilderness near Petersburg, WV, on October 8-10, 2016 (Columbus Day Weekend).
The trip is open to Scouts with experience on other Troop backpacking trips. It is not suitable for Scouts who have never been backpacking, or for new Scouts.
This is a true backpacking experience. We will be backpacking a total of 15 miles over three days, and carrying all equipment, tents, stoves, food, and water.
Proper personal equipment is essential, including pack, boots, sleeping bag, rain gear and clothing.
The recommended equipment checklist is available on the Troop website. There will be a pack inspection prior to the trip.
Average October temperatures in the mountains are 65°F day and 40°F night. Rain is always a possibility.
Layers of clothing, a good rain jacket and rain pants (no ponchos) and a sleeping bag rated down to 25°F are required for safety and comfort.
DEADLINE: Scouts must sign up (permission slip and $30 fee) by Tuesday, October 4 to ensure sufficient transportation.
SCHEDULE: Scouts should arrive at Andrew Chapel United Methodist Church on Saturday, October 8, no later than 6:30 AM.
We will depart at 7:00 AM (sharp), and will return by 4:00 PM on Monday, October 10.
MEALS: Eat breakfast before departure and bring a bag lunch for Saturday. Dinner on Saturday, all meals on Sunday and breakfast on Monday will be prepared by the Scouts.
The meals will be by Patrol cooking and Patrols will decide on a menu and purchase food prior to the trip.
Lunch on Monday will be Pizza Lunch in Petersburg after we come off the trail.
COST: There is a $30 fee per participant (Scouts and adults) to help with cost of food, supplies and transportation.
In addition and separately, another $10 (cash) is needed for Monday Pizza Lunch.
DRIVERS: Drivers will be needed to transport us round-trip to Dolly Sods. It is 150 miles one-way to the trailhead. Please indicate if you can help with transportation for your son.