JUNEBERRY, SERVICEBERRY, OR SHADBLOW: WHATLS IN A

Transcription

The Newsletter of the Potomac Appalachian Trail Club
june 2011 Volume 40, Number 6
Serviceberry Tree in April at Half Moon Lookout
Photo by william needham
Juneberry, Serviceberry, or Shadblow:
what’s in a name?
HIKE OF THE MONTH
4
APPALACHIAN
NATURE
7
YOUTH SECTION
23
118 Park Street, S.E.,
Vienna, VA 22180-4609
www.patc.net
ISSN 098-8l54
There are about 20 species of serviceberry (Amelanchier spp) worldwide, 15 of which are
indigenous to North America. The various species are generally characterized by springblooming, mostly white flowers that produce edible berries in the early summer. The two
species of the Southern Appalachians are the downy serviceberry (A. arborea; arbor is
Latin for tree) and the round-leaved variant (A. sanguinea–sanguinis is Latin for blood,
here referring to the blood-red color of growing twigs), though the serviceberries readily
hybridize, resulting in some generic taxonomic confusion.
Religious Connotations
The global range and striking appearance of the serviceberry, a cynosure of the woods at the
first breath of spring, have resulted in significant interaction with human cultures manifested
in a variety of common names and myriad medicinal and practical uses.
One of the most common, and most likely erroneous, Appalachian aphorisms is that the
serviceberry got its name from the use of these first flowers of spring at church services held
for the early colonists by peripatetic preachers. This myth is perpetuated to the extent that
the derivative name sarvisberry is said to be the result of poor diction on the part of these
same Appalachian people, the word “service” being presumptively too hard to articulate in
the hillbilly argot, thus the derivative “sarvis.”
The serviceberry purportedly provided floral decoration for the baptizing of babies born
during the winter from marriages consummated during the previous season. It also served
for the spring internments and funerals of the winter dead who could not be buried in the
frozen ground.
The likely scenario is that the tree was first called the sorbus-tree, which then became the
service-tree, which then became the serviceberry and not vice versa. It must be admitted,
however, that the mental image of the serviceberry boughs festooning rustic mountain
churches has some aesthetic and romantic appeal.
(continued on p. 22)
about the property boundaries and
the land description as recorded in the
property deed. Other responsibilities
include marking the surveyed boundary,
posting appropriate signage, helping
to erect gates, and ensuring that access
roads are passable. As appropriate, they
coordinate with the cabin and trail
overseers to improve the overall tract.
John’s junket
A few months ago I had the privilege
of attending a Lands Management
Committee Meeting at one of our
newest rental properties—Dunlodge
in Charlottesville, Va. The meeting
was well attended, and a number of
interesting items concerning PATC land
management policies and procedures
were discussed.
PATC now owns 40 properties
(consisting of 61 deeded parcels) in
20 counties in four states. The
properties contain more than 2,150
acres, and the market value of the lands
is conservatively estimated at more than
$12 million. The club also manages
a number of leased properties. Much
of this property has been donated by
club members who realize that PATC
will be good caretakers of the land
and will manage it in accordance with
their wishes. Other property has been
purchased by the club to protect a trail
corridor or to preserve potential
rental facilities.
The majority of our owned and leased
property is divided into tracts with some
of the tracts being complexes comprised
of trails, cabins, and roads within many
acres. Other tracts are relatively small
and consist of only woods and fields.
Regardless of the size and complexity,
the very important job of managing
these properties is the responsibility of
volunteer tract managers.
Tract managers are the “eyes and ears”
for the club in regard to monitoring
the health and welfare of our valuable
land resources. They are knowledgeable
2
A very important function is to check
for illegal activity, such as improper
tree removal, poaching, or improper
vehicular access (ATV trespassing).
The tract managers realize that good
public relations are crucial and work
hard to build trust and confidence with
the neighbors.
In summary, tract managers perform
a vital role in managing our lands.
There are a few tract manager positions
available. For more information, contact
[email protected].
June is an exciting month, and there are
several major events occurring in June
that need your support. The Potomac
Appalachian Trail Club Day and Picnic
on Saturday, June 11, will be held at
Greenbrier State Park in Maryland.
Please join other PATC members
and friends for this family-oriented
camping and activities weekend. More
information is contained in the PA, or
you may contact [email protected].
Another event in June is National Trails
Day—“Beyond the Trailhead”—to be
conducted Saturday, June 4, at the Byrd
Visitor Center in Shenandoah National
Park. Further information is available by
visiting www.patc.net.
—John Hedrick
PATC Trail Patrol Presents
Hike Leader Training
Date: July 23, 2011
Location: Charlottesville, Va.
(Dunlodge)
Cost: $35.00
This one-day course is designed to
prepare hikers to lead hikes. The
course uses classroom and outdoor
instruction to prepare participants
with skills to lead safe and enjoyable
hikes while minimizing the impact to
the trail.
Topics covered include
emergencies, personal equipment,
Leave No Trace, leadership,
planning, standard procedures and
navigation. Scenario exercises will
also be used to emphasize hike
leadership skills.
Registration: Send payments to
PATC, HLT Course, 118 Park Street,
SE, Vienna, Va. 22180-4609. Preregistration is required to assist in
course preparation.
Information: Eric VanNortwick
([email protected]); day: 202/7810796, evening: 703/878-7025.
Marketing Volunteers Needed
We need to market our store items better to our members as well
as non-members.
Are you creative? A catalogue of PATC merchandise needs to be created for our
members and to have as a handout at events!
Do you like to interface with local newspapers and other media? A volunteer is
needed to send ads for our maps, guidebooks, etc., to these outlets.
Both jobs are flexible and can be mostly done at home. For more information,
contact Jane Thompson at [email protected].
june 2011 • Potomac Appalachian
April 2011 Council Fire
cabin nom de plume
The regularly scheduled Council Meeting of PATC was held Tuesday, April 12,
2011, at Club Headquarters. The meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m. by
President John Hedrick.
John announced several upcoming events. First are the dedication ceremonies for
Harpers Ferry, W.Va., and Harrisonburg, Va., which were designated as Appalachian
Trail Communities in March. The ceremony for Harpers Ferry was held May 2,
and Harrisonburg is scheduled for June 10. In celebration of its 75th year, the
rededication for Shenandoah National Park will take place June 25. Lastly, ATC’s
38th Biennial will be held at Emory & Henry College in Emory, Va., July 1-8.
PATC Staff Director Wilson Riley announced that the 2010 Combined Federal
Campaign generated approximately $39,943 in donations.
Jay Jupiter, treasurer, submitted two motions before Council, which were both
approved. The first was to hire a part-time office clerk to assist the PATC business
manager with filing and other small tasks. Second, Council agreed to provide Jay
with a personal indemnification in order to obtain PATC credit cards, which will
help the club track expenses better and take advantage of its tax-exempt status.
Vice President of Volunteerism Rick Canter introduced a motion to change the
status of the information technology position from temporary to permanent, fulltime, effective immediately. The title of the position would also change from IT
analyst to IT coordinator. As the position had already been fully budgeted for 2011,
there will be no impact to the budget. Kit Sheffield, who is currently the PATC IT
analyst, has accepted the full-time IT coordinator position.
Tom Johnson announced that the Appalachian Trail Hall of Fame will hold its first
banquet on June 17 at the Allenbury Resort Inn and Playhouse in Boiling Springs,
Pa., during which the first class of inductees will be announced.
Mountaineering Section Representative Court Zabel announced several successful
events, including the New Leader Workshop. Section members will be volunteering
at the Shenandoah Rock Fest to help clean crags and wash graffiti off of cliffs.
Victoria Voight, Shenandoah Mountain Rescue Group (SMRG), reported that
SMRG has been busy conducting training, including a simulation of an airplane
crash and compass and navigation training.
Rush Williamson, Trail Patrol / Scout Liaison, thanked Kit Sheffield for his work
on the Youth Volunteerism Opportunities Web pages, which were set up in March.
Rush encouraged district managers and overseers to post projects. The Web pages
break down activities by category, including group projects.
Doyles River Cabin has really impressed
members of the Aardvark Trail Club,
F. Palmer and B. Hollman. Mark
Sherwood and Joni James (the artist)
left their comments: “Stay here (it) is a
great one.” Mark added, “We enjoyed
the cabin to the max. Check out the
10-foot-deep pool in the middle of
South River falls for an invigorating
experience!” “OUR SHOES” gives a
great visual of a satisfying day of hiking
no matter what time frame, August of
1978 or August of 2011.
—Pat Fankhauser and Ruth Durloo
(The April Final Council Minutes will be available in full on the PATC website and
in the Headquarters library after they have been approved by Council at the May
Council meeting.)
—Submitted by Anne Shimko, Secretary
Charlie’s Annual Corn Roast
Sponsored by PATC North Chapter. This event will be held on Saturday,
Aug. 6 at Gypsy Spring Cabin following the monthly AT work trip. All are welcome!
We urge everyone to join in the work trip and participate in the festivities. Contact
Bob Wise, president, North Chapter, 804/543-3227.
Editor’s note
The April 2011 “Hike of the Month”
article referred to the C&O Canal
in the area of the Billy Goat Trail
as being “a popular area for…
swimmers.” However, National Park
Service regulations for the C&O
Canal National Historical Park state
that “swimming or wading in the
Potomac River has been determined
to be unsafe and is against the law.”
3
HIKE OF THE MONTH
LITTLE DEVILS STAIRS/PINEY BRANCH
LOOP, SHENANDOAH NATIONAL PARK
If you could only do one hike a year, which would it be? If you
hike a lot and are familiar with area trails this could be a hard
question. It is also a question that you may not want to answer.
One of the reasons it is your favorite trail might be that it is not
swamped with people. This loop is the one hike that I must do
every year. It is popular, but not that popular, and adding the
Piney Branch Trail to this loop guarantees some solitude. The
hike has no views, is in deep woods the whole way, and the
geology and scenery are spectacular. So why I am letting this
hike out of the bag now? This month Shenandoah National
Park celebrates its 75th anniversary, it is time to let some old
secrets go and show how spectacular the park can be.
The trailhead to this loop is at a parking lot near the town
of Rediva in Rappahannock County Va. On one side of the
parking lot is a concrete post, which is the beginning of our
hike. The trail immediately fords a creek. Get used to this, as
you climb the steep canyon ahead you will cross the stream
over and over again. For now the trail climbs gradually through
a wide stream valley. The trail appears to be following an old
road, and on one side of the trail is evidence of old stone fences
and foundations. Also, there is evidence of stone terraces built
into the side of the hill, which were used to flatten the land and
grow crops.
Beginning the Ascent
The trail follows Keyser Run and at one point goes right up
to a high point over the stream. Closer inspection shows that
this used to be the abutment of an old bridge, and a second abutment and the
traces of the old road are visible on the other side of the stream. The trail becomes
a narrow footpath at this point and becomes quite a bit steeper. After some ascents
and descents and another stream crossing, the trail begins up the canyon in earnest.
Little Devils Stairs were caused by an old fault, which literally split the ridge in two.
The resulting canyon is narrow, steep, and rocky and a continuous cascade of falling
water. The footpath is extreme, often going straight up rock formations via steps or
just hand over hand. The trail also crosses over Keyser Run many times as it cascades
down the narrow canyon.
At one point the trail passes by the stream, which runs beside a rock wall, which
towers hundreds of feet above your head. Look around and you see that you are
in a narrow canyon with high rock walls on both sides. It is dark and wet in this
canyon, with lush vegetation of ferns and moss. There are also the shells and stumps
of mighty Hemlock trees, now all dead from the woolly adelgid infection that has
plagued the park and its stately Hemlock trees. As the trail climbs steeply, it also
tops boulders where not only can you stop and catch your breath, you can also turn
and look behind you at the steep narrow canyon below and the valley beyond just
visible through the trees.
(Above) Falls on Piney Branch Trail
(Below) Little Devil’s Stairs
Photos by Lee Sheaffer
4
The trail continues steeply uphill over rocks, crossing the stream again and again.
The view of the high cliffs and the perpetually falling water more than makes make
up for the steepness of the climb. Finally, the trail goes from steep climbing a steep
climb over rock to a steady climb over dirt. Just ahead are a small waterfall and the
end of the stairs. From here the trail veers away from the stream and climbs steadily,
sometimes using log steps. Little Devils Stairs Trail ends at an area known as Fourway.
Keyser Run Fire Road bisects this trail and another trail across the road, making this a
four-way intersection.
Add a Trail
Most people complete the loop by going down the fire road and back to their car.
Most people, in my opinion, miss the best part of this loop. Go straight across the
fire road and join the Pole Bridge Link Trail. This trail is as flat as Little Devils Stairs
is steep, and it is a nice relief to be able to stretch out your legs and walk through
thick forest. Look for signs of bear in this area, as the animals are known to frequent
these woods.
After passing the concrete marker for the Sugarloaf Trail, the Pole Bridge Link Trail
descends slightly as it runs along a small stream. At the next concrete marker, turn
left onto the Piney Branch Trail. This trail descends gradually through a large and
continuous grove of Mountain Laurel. To your right you hear the ever-louder sound
of rushing water, but the vegetation is always too thick to see the stream down below.
Finally, the trail descends more steeply and crosses the Piney River. Along the stream is
what seems like random boulders distributed all about the side of the stream. One in
particular stands out as it is covered in ferns and is the size of a large house.
The trail continues generally descending but at times actually climbs around large
rocks as the sound of rushing water becomes more intense. After passing an area
with large rock walls, look for a faint side trail to your left. This trail will take you
to the most serene and delightful waterfall. Sit on rocks perched directly at the
top of the waterfall, and look in all directions. Everywhere you look are lush ferns,
moss, tumbled rocks, and rushing water. From this spot you can travel over rock to
any spot along the waterfall, getting a perspective that you can’t get at most other
waterfalls. The very bottom of the falls has a deep pool with dark, lush vegetation
just inviting you to jump in. Back up on the trail the footpath continues to descend,
sometimes steeply around boulders and via switchbacks.
Easier Going
Finally, the trail flattens into a much wider river valley with wide flat areas on either side
of the stream. After passing the concrete marker for the Piney Ridge Trail, ford Piney
River on what could be a difficult crossing in high water. From here the trail appears to
look like it once was a country lane, which is exactly what it was, with a stone fence on
one side and even the remnants of daffodils on the other side of the fence.
Emergency Response Training and Trail Patrol presents
Basic Wilderness First Aid and Wilderness First Aid
Basic Wilderness First Aid
Day one of this two-day class covers Adult
CPR and AED and American Heart Association
First Aid. You will receive a textbook and a
certification card good for two years. Day two
is American Safety and Health Institute Basic
Wilderness First Aid. You will learn how to do
bleeding control, splinting, and other basic
first aid skills in the wilderness setting. There
is plenty of hands-on time. Paramedics with
years of backcountry experience teach the
classes.
Cost of the class is $130 and it is held at
the PATC headquarters. Pre-registration is
required no later than the Friday one week
prior to the class. For more information or to
download the registration form, go to Classes
and Training in the PATC Home page (www.
patc.net) or contact Saleena DeVore at
[email protected] or 410/456-6861.
Wilderness First Aid
Join us for a 20-hour Wilderness First Aid
Class! In this class you will learn how to get
help, move and transport patients, conduct
patient assessments, documentation,
how to handle medical and environmental
emergencies, injury prevention and care
and much more. There is plenty of hands-on
practice time as well as scenarios. This class
is conducted inside and outside on the trail.
Each student will receive a certification card
good for two years through the Emergency
Care and Safety Institute and a waterproof
field guide. Cost of this class is $180 and preregistration is required. This class is held in
Frederick, Md. Please contact Saleena DeVore
for more information or the registration forms.
No experience is required.
Upcoming Classes:
May 14-15 WFA
June 25-26 WFA
July 16-17 BWFA
THE FACTS
MAP: The entire loop is in PATC
Map 9; Appalachian Trail and other
trails in Shenandoah National Park,
North District
LENGTH: 8 miles
ALTITUDE GAIN: 2,025 feet
DIFFICULTY FACTOR: 180.0
In a short distance you come to the
concrete marker for the Hull School
Trail. Go left on this trail, and begin
your final climb This trail is wide, and
it is easy to see that at one time it was
an old road that connected several
hollows in the area. Though this is
a steady climb, it is nowhere near as
steep as Little Devils Stairs. Although
after the distance you have hiked, it
can still be a challenge. After eighttenths of a mile of steady climbing,
the trail ends at the Keyser Run Fire
Road. At this intersection is the fenced
Bolen Cemetery. This old family plot
has several grave sites from several
generations of the Bolens and Dwyer
families, who lived here before the
park was established. Notice the
unproportional number of headstones
with the dates 1918 and 1919. As with
the rest of the area, these families had
victims of the flu epidemic that claimed
so many lives during those years.
From the cemetery, follow the wellmaintained fire road downhill to the
parking lot and your car.
As Shenandoah National Park celebrates
its 75th year, some of the best areas are
not the ones with great views or open
spaces. Some of the most memorable
areas of the park are the deep woods
and serene tumbling streams that are so
common in the park. Leave the more
popular spots to the throngs of people
who venture no farther than a few
thousand yards from their cars and find
satisfaction in the deep woods near a
lovely waterfall or a deep canyon with
high rock walls and cascading water. It
is these quieter and more peaceful areas
where the park really speaks about why
it should be there and why you should
be glad it is there.
—Lee Sheaffer
5
Echoes down the Trail — PATC Through History
Shelters — How We Got Them, and When
In 1934, PATC maintained 256 miles
of the Appalachian Trail, from the
Susquehanna River to Rockfish Gap.
Backpackers slept in tents – there was no
shelter on the PATC section.
The idea of providing a place to sleep
came, as did most other ideas in those
days, from Myron Avery. Avery was
born and raised in New England, and
when he came to Washington, D.C., in
1927 he was familiar with the trails in
that region. In the White Mountains,
AMC had built lean-to’s, and later, their
famous “hut” system, essentially hiker
lodges modeled after those in Europe.
In Vermont, the Green Mountain Club
was building lean-to’s and locked cabins.
Dartmouth Outings Club was building
locked cabins. But there was nothing on
the AT south of New York.
Cabins Are Built
Avery envisioned a two-tiered system.
The first to appear was the locked cabin,
then called a “shelter.” The first one
was Sexton Cabin, donated by Lyman
Sexton and Thomas Hickman, built in
what is now Shenandoah National Park,
in1930. By 1942, when Avery wrote the
history of the shelter system, there were
eight: Sexton, Range View, Pocosin,
Rock Spring, Pine Grove, Meadow
Spring, Bear Spring, and Milesburn.
Then, as now, they were locked and had
to be reserved in advance by calling the
club or writing a letter. (Many people
still didn’t have phones.)
For the second type, Avery wanted
shelters that would be generally available
to any backpackers on a first-come,
first-served, basis. He called these
“lean-to’s,” a term then used in New
England. Avery was sensitive to the
mental picture that a lean-to then called
up. In his words, “This term may well
call to mind the brush and boughcovered, sloping structure of the Boy
Scout Manual. Others may recall it as
a sort of framework attached to a farm
building.” PATC lean-to’s were not to
be compared with those. They would
be built either of logs or stone, would
be solid, water-tight, and would provide
places to sleep for up to six campers.
6
Quarry Gap Shelter
Photographer unknown; from a historical PA Bulletin
In 1934 Avery tasked his shelter
committee to write a plan. Shelters
would be spaced ideally no more than
eight to 10 miles apart. That was the
distance that Avery calculated an average
backpacker could cover in a single day.
The chain of 35 would be as evenly
spaced as possible, and the average
distance in the 256-mile section worked
out to just over 7.3 miles.
Tom’s Run, Tagg Run, Quarry Gap,
Whiskey Springs (no longer exists), and
Birch Run. Each of the two structures in
the paired system had two hinged bunks
that could be lowered, thus providing
sleeping space for four. And there was
a stone fireplace behind the paired
shelters. For his shelter design, Norris
copied some picnic shelters then in use
at Fuller Lake in Pine Grove Furnace.
Why did Avery pick 1934? In his words,
PATC had finished its 256-mile section,
so there would be time available to
plan for shelters. And public land was
coming available – Shenandoah National
Park was virtually complete, and in
Pennsylvania two new state forests,
Michaux and Mt. Alto, were in being
[QUERY: What is intended here?].
There were still long stretches of
private land in between, but the
amount of public land available for
shelters was considerable.
Soon thereafter, Forester H.E. Clepper
of Mt. Alto State Forest began
construction of a series of shelters in his
forest: Antietam, Tumbling Run, and
Mackie Run. Clepper did not copy the
Michaux State Forest paired shelter, and
the single shelter sleeping six was the
standard. Avery adopted that design for
the rest of the PATC section. Now that
Pennsylvania was done, it was time to
move south.
Shelters Make Their Appearance
The first shelters in the PATC system
(they were called lean-to’s until the
1960s) were in Pennsylvania. In
Michaux State Forest, Assistant Forester
Tom Norris built six lean-to’s of the
double-paired type: Raccoon Run (the
very first shelter on the PATC section),
To be continued.
—Tom Johnson
APPALACHIAN NATURe
June can be defined as the month of sunlight. In fact, from
May 17 through July 26, the sun here in Washington, D.C., is
higher in the sky than it is on the equator. What a difference it is
in our mid-latitudes versus a place near the equator like Quito,
Ecuador. For example, our monthly average high temperatures
have a range from 42º F in December to 88º F in July, a
difference of 46º, as compared with a monthly average variation
of only 3º F in Quito (64º vs. 67º)!
This significant difference in temperatures can be related to
the varying amounts of available sunlight. Here, our daily
sunlight throughout the year varies by five hours, 27 minutes
(from nine hours, 26 minutes on Dec. 21 to 14 hours, 53
minutes on June 21), while in Quito it varies by only two
minutes and two seconds!
Here Comes the Sun
Life forms throughout the world must adapt to the amount
of sunlight found at their respective latitudes. The longer day
length triggers mating behavior in birds and insects, while the
shortening days instinctively cause birds to migrate south and
chrysanthemums to bloom (as well as goldenrods and asters).
Dragonfly nymphs will metamorphose into adults in the early
spring while day lengths are increasing at three minutes a day.
Once day length increases by less than three minutes, the
nymphs won’t change until next spring.
Plants all have their own biological clocks that determine
when they emerge and flower. A hormone called phytochrome
regulates the plant growth and development, including timing
of flowering. Many plants are long-day plants, blooming when
the days are getting longer. Short-day plants bloom as the
days are shortening; others are day-length-neutral. Still others
are long-short plants that bloom in summer after the longest
days have passed and day length begins to shorten. In the case
of some plants, including poinsettias, it’s not the length of
day light that triggers the flowering, but rather the length of
absence of light, or nighttime.
Certain plants are extremely vulnerable to day lengths. A variety
of rice is known to perform best within a 10-minute range of
sunlight. An extreme case is a variety of soybean that must grow
within a 50-mile radius belt of a specific latitude.
In many cases, the daylight hours, more so than climate, dictate
the geographic range of plants. This explains why many plants
that can survive at freezing northern temperatures cannot
succeed in southern climes. It is the lack of short days, necessary
to conduct essential hormonal seasonal responses, rather than
cold, that prevents their normal growth cycle.
Our deciduous broadleaved forests can be found around the
globe in Europe, in central China, and in a few other areas that
lie 30 to 60 degrees of latitude from the Equator, but are found
most significantly in our eastern United States.
The American-Asian Tie
There is a famous eastern Asian-eastern North American
connection of plants and animals. Not only are they located
within the same latitudes, but due to their similar locations
on their respective continents, the climates of the two regions
are also similar. Perhaps not surprisingly, many of the same
or closely related plant and animal populations occur both
in eastern Asia and eastern North America, including genera
with species confined exclusively to these two geographically
disparate, but ecologically similar habitats. For example, there
are only two species of tulip poplars in the world, one here in
our region and the other in China. Likewise, the closest relative
to the Carolina hemlock is found in eastern Asia.
Nearly 120 genera in 60 families of plants have disjunct
populations (geographically isolated) in eastern Asia and
temperate North America, relicts of the once widespread flora.
Disjunct species are known between these two distant regions
among certain ferns, ginseng, mayapple, jack-in-the-pulpit,
skunk cabbage, lichens, and mosses. Among orchids, more than
two-thirds of the orchids of temperate North America have
related species in eastern Asia, and eight genera have disjunct
species pairs. In contrast, not a single orchid genus grows
exclusively in North America and Europe. The genus Panax,
which includes ginseng, the well-known medicinal plant, is also
found only in the eastern United States and eastern Asia.
Disjunct species found in these two regions include animals
as well. The American alligator and the Chinese alligator are
the only two alligator species in the world. The copperhead
has a species in the same genus in southeastern Asia, and our
hellbender has an Asian relative.
Fossils collected from western Canada and Alaska confirm a
band of continuous deciduous forest 10–20 million years ago
connecting North America to central Asia. Many circumpolar
plant species that were once widespread throughout the northern
hemisphere were wiped out by glaciation 13 million years ago
but survived in temperate North America and eastern Asia.
The classic eastern North American-eastern Asian pattern is
undoubtedly the best known and most often cited example
of the disjunct occurrence of closely related taxa on two
continents separated by thousands of miles. It has been said
that the similarities of the forests of the southern Appalachians,
Japan, and central China, in appearance as well as in ecological
associations are in many instances so great that a sense of déjà
vu is experienced by botanists from one of the regions visiting
the other.
(As some of you are aware, I’ve been writing monthly articles
for the PA newsletter since 2001 with only a few exceptions.
Recently, the editorial staff has determined that they cannot
assure me that there will be room in the PA for my monthly
articles and have requested that I submit alternate monthly
submissions. That is quite acceptable to me. I say this just to let
you know when to expect my articles in the future.)
—Bob Pickett
7
Harrisonburg, VA – The Newest Appalachian
Trail Community
For Harrisonburg, Va.,
an important question arose, “Why
become an Appalachian Trail
Community?” In 2010, a group of
interested citizens and organizations
formed an advisory committee to answer
those questions and apply for designation.
The process yielded a desire
to engage the community
in multiple ways, as
well as trail hikers,
about the unique
relationship between
our local culture and
this important natural
resource. In March
2011, Harrisonburg
received Appalachian Trail
Community designation.
Eddie Bumbaugh, a member of the
Appalachian Trail Conservancy since 1992
and executive director of Harrisonburg
Downtown Renaissance, has been a
motivating force for Harrisonburg to
become an Appalachian Trail Community.
In 2000, Eddie and two friends dedicated
themselves to hike the 550 miles of the
Virginia portion of the AT (the largest
single portion in any one state) as
section-hikers. In 2004, he and his friends
reached their goal and were motivated
to begin in Georgia, continuing as
section-hikers along the remaining 1,600
miles of challenging wilderness. Their
travels have taken them all the way to
Vermont. Whether they were meeting
section-hikers, thru-hikers, or just casual
hikers, the interaction between nature,
the hikers, and the communities was
magical. As many hikers realize, having
fresh food, taking warm showers, and
visiting welcoming communities became
exceptional moments along the trail.
Downtown Harrisonburg and the
surrounding community contribute
their own flavor and cultural tapestry
to the mix of existing Appalachian
Trail Communities. The city has a
rich history dating back to the initial
westward migration beyond the Blue
Ridge Mountains in the 18th century.
With its wealth of springs, it became a
welcomed respite for travelers. Located in
the Shenandoah Valley just 18 miles from
where the Swift Run Gap entrance of the
8
Shenandoah National Park/Skyline Drive
crosses the AT, Harrisonburg is a hub for
trail access in both the George Washington
National Forest and Shenandoah National
Park. Our community exemplifies the
warmth and hospitality shown to travelers
throughout our history, offering an
eclectic mix of locally owned
eateries, shops and outfitters,
and affordable lodging.
A progressive and
revitalized downtown
offers the backdrop for 26
locally owned restaurants
and eateries. Trail visitors
have many options, from
award-winning vegetarian
chili at Dave’s Downtown
Taverna or locally brewed beer
from Cally’s Restaurant and Brewing Co.,
to multiple ethnic restaurants and the
famous Kline’s Dairy Bar. Our seasonal
favorite, the rooftops and patios of
Harrisonburg, is where you can eat, drink,
and relax while catching a glimpse of local
life. Downtown offers a variety of events
throughout the year, including Valley 4th
and Fridays on the Square, offering free
concerts and movies.
You are invited for the season’s first
Fridays on the Square and Appalachian
Trail Community Dedication Ceremony.
On Friday, June 10, join us at 6:30 p.m.
for a Dedication Ceremony in historic
downtown Harrisonburg held on Court
Square. After the Award Ceremony, stay
and enjoy a free concert beginning at
7:00 p.m. on the Courthouse lawn to
Eric Brace & Last Train Home, a highly
acclaimed roots-rock band from Nashville,
Tenn., returning to Harrisonburg by
popular demand.
Harrisonburg, with its warm and friendly
people, devotion to culinary experiences
and hospitality, and strong community
support for thoughtful management of
historic and natural resources resources,
is looking forward to expanding the
relationship between the community and
hikers along the Appalachian Trail.
—Zenaida Hall, Harrisonburg Tourism
and Visitor Services
June 2011 Volunteer
of the Month —
Mike Wingeart Mike Wingeart
Photo by Pete Brown
Mike Wingeart is the Tuscarora Trail
Central District’s Shelter Crew leader.
In 2009, the Tuscarora Shelter Crew
completed the Basore Ridge Shelter.
Using leftover materials from that
shelter and staying within a limited
budget, the crew completed another
outstanding shelter in 2010, the
Spruce Pine Hollow Shelter. Spruce
Pine Hollow involved a lot of additional
support work: the construction of an
access road, installation of a gate, and
completion of a picnic table and privy.
Mike has been successful in leading
these projects, thanks to his skills and
his ability to attract a loyal group of
helpful volunteers. Mike’s good nature
and sense of humor provide a fulfilling
experience for those who work with
him, even if things do not go quite as
planned. Mike epitomizes the best in
volunteer leadership. PATC thanks Mike Wingeart for his
dedication and service to our club goals
by leading shelter construction projects
along the Tuscarora Trail.
In Memoriam: Alden Leroy Rogers
Al Rogers, a PATC honorary life member, died Sunday, April 3,
at the age of 87 at his home in Mount Airy, Md. Born Nov. 5,
1923, in Glendale, Ca., Al was a 1951 engineering graduate of
the University of Maryland. He served in the Navy as a fighter
pilot in World War II and retired from the Naval Reserves with
the rank of commander. He was also retired from the Johns
Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory, where he had
several inventions patented in his name.
As trail construction got under way there, he became a regular on
the Cadillac Crew. He was a hard worker and always made time
to help others on the crew learn. Steve Pebley credits him with
being an instrumental figure in teaching the fundamentals of trail
maintenance. He is remembered for fearless driving, wonderful
cooking, and great story telling. Once a season he’d bring
Argentine-sized steaks to grill, and he made a really delicious beef
stew, too.
In addition to Mary A. Rogers, his wife of 48 years, he is survived
by his son, Kevin Bruce Rogers, and his two daughters, Mary
Josephine York and Elizabeth Anne Moravansky. Al was laid to
rest in Arlington National Cemetery.
After a day of trail work and as night fell, Al’s trusty stainless steel
mug laced with Old Smuggler would appear from under his
chair, and soon afterwards the stories would flow freely. Along
with tales about life as a teenager in Hawaii during the attack on
Pearl Harbor, landings on converted Liberty ships, and other
exploits as a Navy pilot, he told many stories about hiking the
Appalachian Trail.
In addition to his honorary life membership award from PATC
in 2003, Al received the American Hiking Society’s Volunteer of
the Year recognition in 2001 for his trail work in West Virginia.
He was the overseer of a 5.6-mile Tuscarora Trail section in
the Sleepy Creek Wildlife Management Area and did much to
improve the drainage of a low-lying area along Meadow Branch.
Al hiked the entire Appalachian Trail in 1993 – his 70th year
– under the trail-name “Old Smoothie” – a reflection on his
shaving habits while out on the trail. His career with PATC began
early the following year when he hiked the new Shockeys Knob
easement on the Tuscarora Trail with the surveyor and other
PATC representatives.
It was apparent that Al enjoyed people as much as he loved the
Appalachian Trail. He had a full life and had tried many different
things he was eager to tell about. As the campfires died down, the
whippoorwills found him a tough act to follow. He had a million
stories about his various encounters and experiences on the trail.
And all of them were true! Well, almost...
—Katherine Rindt
In Memoriam: Andrew Garman
Andrew D. Garman, 18, of Jefferson,
Md., passed away on April 8, 2011, after
a brief illness. Born on Oct. 5, 1992, in
Frederick, Md., he was the son of PATC
trail Overseer Dave Garman and his
wife, Allison.
Andy was presented with his Eagle
Scout award on March 13. For his
eagle project, Andy led 28 people in
refurbishing the Loudoun Heights
Trail to Split Rock, overlooking
Harpers Ferry. He also worked on the
Appalachian Trail in Maryland with his
dad and was an occasional member of
the South Mountaineers Trail Crew.
Andy reached the summit of Mt. Elbert,
the highest peak in Colorado, at age
11. He was a member of Brunswick
High School’s senior class and National
Honor Society, and he participated in
marching and jazz band—playing three
instruments—and was All-County in
concert bands playing French horn, on
which he was especially gifted.
Theater productions drew Andy to the
stage as an actor, singer, set builder,
backstage manager, and musician in the
pit orchestra. He participated on the
Academic Team all four years of high
school, which helped Brunswick to
remarkable finishes with his genius for
history, geography, and general trivia.
Andy participated in Camp Hope house
restorations and Hurricane Katrina
cleanup as well as other service-oriented
activities. His final act of service was to
opt to donate his organs so that others
could live. We remember the brief but
remarkable life of Andrew Garman.
—Submitted by Rick Canter
Andrew Garman
Photo provided by the Garman family
9
Forecast
CHAPTERS
Charlottesville Chapter The Charlottesville
Chapter hikes every Saturday, summer, winter,
and in between. Hikes are usually 8 to 10 miles
with some shorter hikes. We usually maintain
trails on the last Saturday of the month. Meet at
Albemarle High School in Charlottesville at 9:00
AM with food and water for the day. The majority
of hikes are in the South and Central Districts
of SN P with some in the North District and in
George Washington National Forest. Our Chapter
hikes are posted at www.avenue.org/ patc/
future_ hikes.htm. INFO : Lindsay Brown 434/9732343 or [email protected].
North Chapter The North Chapter conducts
monthly trail work trips on the Maryland and
Pennsylvania sections of the AT and Tuscarora
Trail. We also lead hikes on these and other trails.
Maryland AT work trips are generally held on the
first and third Saturdays–contact Leonard Keifer
([email protected]). Pennsylvania work trips
are generally held on the AT on the first Saturday
and on the Tuscarora on the third Saturday–
contact Pete Brown (peter.brown4@worldnet.
att.net) 410/343-1140. Pennsylvania AT work trips
also include an optional Saturday dinner at the
Gypsy Spring Cabin. For information on upcoming
hikes, contact Chris Firme (bncfirme@innernet.
net) 717/765-4833. North Chapter home page
(www.north.patc.net).
Northern Shenandoah Valley Chapter Bounded
by geography and the principles of the “Mother
Club,” the NS VC is much like the early PATC,
a group of friends joining together to hike and
have fun. The Chapter usually holds at least
one hike per month. Members organize hikes of
easy-to-moderate length and difficulty in SNP,
on the Massanutten Mountain, and elsewhere.
Quarterly post-hike potluck dinner meetings are
normally held at one of the club’s cabins with an
opportunity to stay overnight in the cabin. Events
may be found in the “Forecast” section of the
newsletter, or at www.PAT C.net. All are invited.
INFO : Jack Reeder (BR [email protected]).
Southern Shenandoah Valley Chapter See www.
ssvc.org or the link on the PAT C Web site for
descriptions of hikes and work trips. We usually
hike in the Southern and Central Districts of the
SN P and in the GWNF. Contact the listed hike
leader for information about a specific event,
or contact Mark Gatewood at 540/248-0442, or
[email protected].
West Chapter The West Chapter is meant to
serve those residents who live in the area
bounded by Frederick, MD/Leesburg, VA west to
Hancock, MD/Berkeley Springs, WV. However
anyone regardless of where they reside may
10
request to join the Chapter’s yahoo group (http://
groups.yahoo.com/group/PATCWest). The
group is open to anyone interested in Chapter
events but only current PATC members may post
messages to the group. Hikes, trail work trips,
and other activities are generally scheduled from
March through December. Contact Dave Jordahl
([email protected]).
SPECIAL INTEREST SECTIONS
Ski Touring Section (STS) Since 1974 the STS
has served to provide cross-country skiing
experiences for beginners through experts. The
section sponsors winter weekend ski trips to
the mountains in Maryland, West Virginia, and
Pennsylvania; there are also more extensive trips
that travel west, north, and across the ocean.
Social events are scheduled throughout the year.
If you share a respect for nature, enjoy outdoor
exercise, peaceful scenic trails, and cheerful,
good-hearted companions–join STS . Contact:
Rob Swennes ([email protected]).
Mountaineering Section We’re a diverse
group of local DC area climbers. We also hare
common interests in promoting safe climbing,
conserving the outdoors, developing new
climbers’ skills, representing the Washington
area climbing community, and having fun! We
provide instruction for those wanting to learn the
basics–we’re not a school, but we can get you
started. We go climbing, either locally or further
afield, nearly every weekend. In the winter we
organize rips for beginning and advanced ice
climbers. Please visit our Web site at www.
potomacmountainclub.org/. Contact Court Zabel
[email protected]) or 571/228-4365.
PATC Hikes PATC offers diverse organized
hikes. There are K-9 Hikes, which invite you to
bring your favorite dog; Family Hikes tailored
to kids; Natural History Hikes stalking the
fascinating but often elusive flora and fauna
of the region; hikes featuring varying levels of
difficulty with the Easy Hikers, In-Between
Hikers, and Vigorous Hikers; Birding Hikes
with experts to help sight and identify our
avian neighbors; Historical Hikes tracking little
known structures in SNP; Series Hikes tracing
the entire length of the Tuscarora Trail or the
trails of Pennsylvania, section by section;
Backpacking Hikes traversing the racts of West
Virginia and Southern Virginia; hikes scheduled
for weekends; ones scheduled for weekdays;
Geology Hikes led by experts from the
Smithsonian focused on the unique stratigraphy
of our area; Mushroom Hikes with mycologists;
Waterfall Hikes to beat the summer heat;
and Outreach Hikes to get together with the
members of area groups like the Sierra Club
or the Congressional Hikers. Check out the
Forecast calendar on the PATC website
www.patc.net.
Other Clubs’ Hikes Capital (www.
capitalhikingclub.org) and Wanderbirds (www.
wanderbirds.org) hike on Saturdays andSundays,
traveling by bus and leaving from downtown, with
suburban stops as well. Center Club, Northern
Virginia Hiking Club, and Sierra Club hike on
both Saturdays and Sundays using carpools.
Schedules are available at PATC Headquarters
and are published in area newspapers on Fridays.
West Virginia Highland Conservancy outings
information at www.wvhighlands.org. Meetings
at PATC HQ, 118 Park Street, S.E., Vienna, VA
unless otherwise noted.
New Members – Third Wednesday of each
Month Check Forecast schedule. Curious about
the club? Want to learn more? The best
way is to attend a New Members Meeting (both
current and non-members are welcome!).
Attend the meeting and find the mysteries
of PATC revealed in full. INFO : Alan Day
([email protected]) 877/746-4263
Mountaineering – Second Wednesday 8:00
PM – We meet every month on the second
Wednesday, except for August, unless
noted in the Forecast. INFO : Court Zabel
([email protected] or our Web site: www.
potomacmountainclub.org.
Shenandoah Mountain Rescue Group (SMRG) –
Last Tuesday Business meeting – Last Tuesday of
each month, 7:30 PM INFO : ([email protected]) or
www.smrg.org.
PATC Council – Second Tuesday The council
meets at 7:00 PM sharp. The PATC Council
meets every month, except January and July,
to conduct business of the council and in
November for a dinner meeting. All members
are always welcome. Come see how we make
decisions about your council. INFO : Wilson Riley
([email protected]) 703/242-0693 X105.
Trail Patrol – First Tuesday 7:30 PM except
January. Trail Patrol volunteers are PATC’s
goodwill trail ambassadors to the hiking public.
They provide a visible, reassuring presence on
the trails, and strive to educate the public on good
hiking practices, minimum impact hiking, and
camping ethics. Patrol members are trained in land
navigation, emergency procedures, and personal
equipment. INFO: Murry Moskowitz (trailpatrol@
patc.net), or see our Web site: www.patc.net/
volunteer/trailpatrol/.
June
1 (Wednesday)
DEADLINE – July Potomac Appalachian
Material due to editors 5:00 p.m.
All items for the next issue of the newsletter due.
Send Forecast events to PA-Forecast@patc.
net and all other articles to the editor at PA@
patc.net. NOTE: Do not send photos or articles to
headquarters. E-mail for address.
1 (Wednesday)
HIKE – Easy Hikers, 10:15 a.m.
Alexandria, VA
Meet at 10:15 a.m. at Dora Kelly Park entrance
on N. Chambliss St. A walk through the park
to Beauregard connecting streets, then along
Holmes Run (5 stepping-post stream crossings) to
Columbia Pike and return. About 6 miles. Optional
post-hike visit to Winkler Botanical Preserve.
Bring lunch and water. No pets. From Rte 50
(Arlington Blvd.) south on S. George Mason Drive
for 2.8 m.; left onto Seminary Rd. for 2 blocks; right
onto Fillmore Ave. for 3 blocks then bear left onto
Chambliss St. INFO: Mike Kimmel, 202/293-2951.
1 (Wednesday)
HIKE – Midweek Hikers
Location to be determined
The PATC Midweek Hikers carpool each
Wednesday from the Washington, DC area to
various trailheads. Hikes are at a moderate pace
and about 8 to 12 miles in length with varied
elevations. Current information, including meeting
place, time, leader’s name and phone number, and
a detailed description of the hike are available on
the PATC calendar at www.patc.net/calendar.
2 (Thursday)
CLASS – Hidden Trails of Zion National Park
(REI) Fairfax, Va., 7:00 p.m.
Brilliantly-hued canyons, isolated mesas, and
etched slickrock terraces make up Utah’s oldest
National Park, Zion. Join REI member Bob
Melchior for a multi-media journey through some
of its best trails, including day hikes and multi-day
treks. You’ll traverse Wildcat Canyon along the
incredible vistas of the West Rim Trail, and wander
down Zion’s premiere canyon, the Narrows,
where the Virgin River meanders 16 miles through
a storm-sculpted gorge of sandstone arches,
grottoes, and soaring fluted walls. INFO: Register
at: www.rei.com/fairfax.
4 (Saturday)
HIKE – Capital Hiking Club, 8:00 a.m.
White Rock Cliffs, VA
PATC Map F/VA Bus (pickups in DC, Rosslyn,
Vienna Metro, and Centreville Park & Ride lot)
$25 (nonmembers $28). Long hike: 11.2 mi., 2800
ft. ascent/descent. Short hike: 7.2 mi., 2000 ft.
ascent/descent. Mountain laurel should be in
peak bloom, covering entire mountainsides,
on this venture deep into George Washington
National Forest. Starting at Van Buren Furnace,
we’ll all ascend the Little North Mtn. Trail to White
Rock Cliffs, a rocky outcropping that affords a
striking view. After lunching there, short hikers
return directly back to the bus, while long hikers
complete a circuit of Three Ponds Trail, Racer
Camp Hollow Trail, and Old Mail Path before
following short hikers back to the bus. INFO: Mark
Tune, 703/401-2719 and Debby Tune (caphiker@
yahoo.com) 703/473-1310.
4 (Saturday)
SPECIAL EVENT – National Trails Day, 9:00 a.m.
In partnership with Shenandoah National Park,
the Potomac Appalachian Trail Club’s Trail
Patrol is sponsoring “Beyond the Trailhead,”
an opportunity to leave your car behind and
experience the outdoors through hiking. Join
us for guided hikes, hands-on demonstrations
of the use of traditional tools such as two-man
crosscut saws, and multi-media presentations
by Appalachian Trail thru-hikers about their
experiences. Learn new skills for the safe and
responsible enjoyment of our natural world with
the Virginia Master Naturalists and Emergency
Response Training. Register in person on June 4th
or pre-register by e-mailing [email protected];
include your name and which hike you wish to join.
INFO: Cindy Kelly ([email protected]).
4 (Saturday)
WORK TRIP – DC Crew, 8:30 a.m.
Join us on National Trails Day 2011! The DC Crew
will be working in Rock Creek Park on a needy
trail section. We meet at the Nature Center just
south of Military Road at 8:20 a.m. and carpool
to the worksite at 8:30 a.m. All are welcome. No
experience necessary. PATC and NPS will provide
all tools and instruction. Please wear appropriate
footwear for a few hours out on the trails and bring
work gloves! Rain or shine. INFO: Alex Sanders
4 (Saturday)
WORK TRIP – Spooky Beaver Work Trip,
8:30 a.m.
Join the Spooky Beaver Trail Crew in Prince
William Forest Park, Triangle, Va. to celebrate
National Trails Day. This historic national park
is close to the metro area off I-95, exit 150B.
Registration starts at 8:30 a.m. Meet in the side
parking lot of the Pine Grove Picnic Area, near
the Visitors Center, and we typically work until
mid afternoon. Wear boots, bring water, lunch,
and dress for the weather. INFO: Liles Creighton
([email protected] or [email protected])
410/573-0067 or 703/376-4150.
4 (Saturday)
WORK TRIP – Pennsylvania AT Work Trip,
8:45 a.m.
Contact Pete Brown for more information. Work
is sometimes done on shelters and cabins as well
as trails. The crew gets together afterward for
supper at one of PATC’s cabins.
INFO: Pete Brown ([email protected]).
4 (Saturday)
WORK TRIP – National Trails Day Event,
9:00 a.m.
Washington Monument State Park, Md.
The Trail House in Frederick proudly sponsors
this National Trails Day event. Early arrival helps
us get organized and out in the woods. Come
out to celebrate this special day and enjoy a
complimentary meal afterwards. INFO: Leonard,
[email protected]. Details provided the week of
the work trip.
4 (Saturday)
WORK TRIP – Stonewall Brigade, 9:00 a.m.
The Stonewall Brigade will begin the battle to
control summer growth and re-blaze some of the
trails on Great North Mountain. We Meet a 9:00
a.m. at the Wolf Gap Recreational Area. Bring
water, a sack lunch, work gloves, and join us for
a day of work. Please let me know if you plan to
attend – Don Upton ([email protected]).
4 (Saturday)
WORK TRIP – Highacre Work Trip, 9:00 a.m.
Join us for a few hours or all weekend as we
spruce up a beautiful Victorian house in historic
Harpers Ferry, W.Va. Work will consist of
carpentry, yard work, cleaning, painting and
anything else that needs attention. Bedding is on
a first come first served basis and meals will be
pot luck. Get your work clothes, hiking boots and
friends together and contact me if you would like
to help take care of this PATC treasure. INFO: Ben
Mayock ([email protected]) 410/461-1327.
5 (Sunday)
HIKE – Wanderbirds Hiking Club
Patapsco State Park: Orange Grove, Avalon, and
Hilton areas, Howard Co., Md. This trail takes us
down the Patapsco River. Moderate hikers take
a counterclockwise loop by taking the Cascade
Falls, Morning Choice Valley View, and Ridge
Trails. Long hikers start at the same place, but
cross the Patapsco at the Swinging Bridge into
the Hilton Area which has a 4.5-mile loop that
uses a variety of trails and passes by the historic
Bloede’s Dam. The long hikers will then re-cross
the Swinging Bridge and follow the moderate loop
through the Orange Grove and Avalon areas.
Est. miles: 8-11 (intermediate) and 6.4 (easy). Easy
Option available. Patapsco State Park Map from
Maryland DNR. Fare: $27. Bus pick-up in DC (8:00)
11
Forecast
and at Grosvenor Metro, MD (8:30). INFO: Josh
Silverman 703/591-2822 and Marsha Johnston
([email protected]) 619/855-0669.
5 (Sunday)
WORK TRIP – Highacre Work Trip, 9:00 a.m.
Join us for a few hours or all weekend as we
spruce up a beautiful Victorian house in historic
Harpers Ferry, WV. Work will consist of carpentry,
yard work, cleaning, painting and anything else
that needs attention. Bedding is on a first come
first served basis and meals will be pot luck.
Get your work clothes, hiking boots and friends
together. Contact me if you would like to help take
care of this PATC treasure. INFO: Ben Mayock
5 (Sunday)
WORK TRIP – Trail Crew
Southern District, Shenandoah
National Park, Va.
This 5-day crew will be housed at the Schairer
Trail Center in the South District. Crewmembers
will park their vehicles at Eaton Hollow Overlook
and hike in ½ mile to the cabin. Crew members will
pack their own lunches, and breakfast will be selfserve at the cabin. Crew will eat out for dinner into
Elkton or Luray. A PATC member will act as crew
leader and drive a park-provided vehicle to and
from the work site. Crew leader and trail crew will
perform trail work together under the supervision
of a Park Ranger. For more information see: http://
www.patc.net/WorkCrews. INFO: Heidi Forrest,
([email protected]) 703/242-0315 ext. 107.
7 (Tuesday)
HIKE – Vigorous Hikers, 8:30 a.m.
Knob Mountain – Neighbor Mountain Circuit –
PATC Map 9. Starting at Jeremys Run parking,
hikers will take Jeremys Run to Knob Mountain
and do a clockwise circuit at Knob Mountain
Cutoff Trail, the AT, and Neighbor Mountain, with
a stopover at Elkwallow for lunch. Splashdown
on the return at Jeremys Run. This appears to be
about 17 miles with about 4,000 feet of elevation
gain. INFO: David Saah ([email protected])
703/352-4685.
7 (Tuesday)
MEETING – Trail Patrol, 7:30 p.m.
8 (Tuesday)
Turkey Run Park, Va.
The Easy Hikers will hike 4-5 miles, with some
hilly stretches and minor stream crossings. Meet
at 10:15 a.m. on parking lot C-1, immediately to
the left upon entering the park. Bring lunch and
water. Directions: From the Beltway take exit 43
(George Washington Parkway) about two miles
12
to the exit for Turkey Run Park. Also accessible
from GW Parkway northbound. Cell phone on day
of hike: 202/262-2349. INFO: Jennifer Newton
8 (Wednesday)
See June 1 event for more information.
8 (Wednesday)
MEETING – Mountaineering Section, 8:00 p.m.
10 – 11 (Friday – Saturday)
EVENT – Potomac Appalachian Trail Club Day
& Picnic, 6:00 p.m.
Join other PATC members for this year’s picnic at
Greenbrier State Park in Boonsboro, Md., Saturday,
June 11, 2011, beginning at 9:00 am. The picnic is
just part of a “family oriented” camping weekend
with special events and outreach activities for
everyone. Bring your family and friends, camp
Friday and Saturday nights, then attend the club
picnic at the gazebo near the park’s beautiful
lake. Starting 9:00 am Saturday are PATC-led
hikes on the Appalachian Trail to Annapolis
Rocks & Washington Monument, a nature hike,
informational displays about PATC, Leave No Trace
and Wilderness First Aid, and a Saturday evening
presentation at the park’s Visitor Center. Ten
campsites are already reserved for PATC members
for Friday and Saturday nights. Contact Randy Motz
for reservation details. Further details about this
event will appear in the PA newsletter. INFO: Randy
Motz ([email protected])
11 (Saturday)
HIKE – Long Distance Hike, 7:30 a.m.
Wardensville, W.Va.
The hike begins on the Waites Run Road near
Wardensville, West Virginia and proceeds up
the German Wilson Trail to Halfmoon Lookout.
Continuing on the Bucktail Trail and the old
Crackwhip Furnace Trail, the return is on the
Capon Trail. Total distance 17 miles elevation gain
3,000 feet. Meet at the Oakton Shopping Center on
Route 123 (exit 60 on Route 66 west) for carpool.
INFO: William Needham ([email protected])
410/884-9127.
11 (Saturday)
WORK TRIP – 9:00 a.m.
Appalachian Trail
The weather is so nice this time of year, the
woods beckon. Have fun working with the South
Mountaineers. Please bring plenty of water for
a warm day, lunch, gloves, and boots. We meet
in Frederick County, Md. INFO: Leonard Keifer
11 (Saturday)
WORK TRIP – Roaring Tuskers Trail Crew
Work Trip, 9:00 a.m.
We’ll be relocating the Tuscarora Trail in the
beautiful woods near Eagles Nest Mt. in Sleepy
Creek Wildlife Management Area. Bring lunch,
water, work gloves and we’ll provide the rest.
No experience? Join us and we’ll provide some.
INFO: Steve Sharp ([email protected])
240/338-3655.
12 (Sunday)
HIKE – Wanderbirds Hiking Club, 8:00 a.m.
Half Moon Mountain, Great North Mountain,
WV. Half Moon is a steep peak on Great North
Mountain affording spectacular views across
Wilson Cove to other North Mountain peaks.
Long hikers start at Waite Run, climb to Half
Moon via Bucktail, Bucktail Cutoff and Lookout
Trails and descend back to Waites Run via
German Wilson and Old Mine Trails. Moderate
hikers also start at Waites Run, climb the
German Wilson Trail to the Half Moon Lookout
and then reverse, reaching the Old Mine Trail
and Waites Run. Est. miles: 12.7 (strenuous) and
8.5 (intermediate) with additional mileage on
the Tuscarora Trail optional. PATC Map F. Fare:
$27. Bus pick-up in DC (8:00) & at Vienna Metro,
VA (8:30). INFO: Michael Roehm 301/223-7385
and Tom Jones ([email protected])
301/294-1356.
12 (Sunday)
WORK TRIP – Massarock Trail Crew Week 1–
PATC Trail Crew, 4:00 p.m.
Edinburg, Va., Lee Ranger District
This 5-day crew will meet at the Forest Service
Depot in Edinburg at 4:00 p.m. Sunday evening
& have dinner at a local restaurant. Each week
the crew loads up supplies and food and leaves
Monday morning to camp and work in one of
our more remote and beautiful areas. The crew
will work together under the supervision of a
Forest Service employee. INFO: Charles Hillon
12 (Sunday)
WORK TRIP – West Chapter Trail Work Trip,
10:00 a.m.
Cunningham Falls State Park
Final West Chapter trail work trip of the spring
season before the summer hiatus. Erosion
control structures needed on the yellow blazed
Cliff Trail that connects the lake area to the Falls
Area and the Campground Trail. Free waterproof
trail maps to volunteers. Inform the attendant
at the entrance that you are there to volunteer
to work on the trails to have the park’s entrance
fee waived. Some refreshments will be provided
by the Maryland Park Service. After the trail
work trip cool off at the falls or the lake.
INFO: Dave Jordahl ([email protected]).
14 (Tuesday)
Central District, Shenandoah National Park
We’ll top three big peaks in the Central District
of SNP (PATC Map 10), all with great views.
From White Oak Canyon Parking up Cedar Run
to Hawksbill Summit, to Stony Man via AT, down
Old Rag Fire Road to Robertson Mt. Trail, up and
over Robertson to complete loop via Weakley and
Berry Hollow Fire Roads; ~ 17 miles with 5,500 feet
ascent. INFO: Bob Livezey ([email protected]).
14 (Tuesday)
MEETING – PATC Council, 7:00, p.m.
Club’s governing board. Members wishing to
address Council should contact Staff Director
prior to the meeting. INFO: Staff Director (info@
patc.net).
15 (Wednesday)
Broad Run, Va.
Note: Travel distance to this hike is longer than
usual. Plan accordingly. Hike about 5 miles on trails
in the Bull Run Mountains Natural Area. Some
elevation change and a couple of minor stream
crossings. Bring lunch and water. Hike on private
land. Owner (brmconservancy.org) may require
a waiver from each hiker, and does not permit
dogs. Directions: From the Beltway take Interstate
66 west 23.6 miles to Exit 40 (Haymarket). Turn
left at the end of the exit ramp onto US 15 South.
Turn right at the next light onto Rt. 55 west. Go
2.7 miles—you will cross a railroad track. After
the track, take the first right onto Turner Road
(F289) (crosses over I-66) and then the first left
onto Beverley Mill Drive. Go 0.8 miles to Mountain
House (17405 Beverley Mill Drive, Broad Run,
Virginia 20137) on left and park on gravel lot. If the
House is open, a restroom is available. Cell phone
on day of hike: 202/365-2921. INFO: Gary Abrecht
15 (Wednesday)
15 (Wednesday)
MEETING – New Members Meeting, 7:30, p.m.
Vienna, VA
Come meet other new members, see PATC
HQs, and get questions answered. PATC at
118 Park Street, SE, Vienna, VA 22180 or call in
to participate over the phone 1-877/746-4263
02 03 572# or Skypepatcnet. INFO: Alan Day
18 (Saturday)
WORK TRIP – Pennsylvania Tuscarora Trail
Work Trip
Contact Pete Brown for more information. Work
location and meeting place varies.
18 (Saturday)
WORK TRIP – D.C. Crew Worktrip
Join us on a lovely summer morning in Rock Creek
Park! The DC Crew will be working in RockCreek
Park on a needy trail section. We meet at the
Nature Center justsouth of Military Road at 8:20
a.m. and carpool to the worksite at 8:30 a.m. All
are welcome. No experience necessary. PATC and
NPS will provide all tools and instruction. Please
wear appropriate footwear for a few hours out
on the trails and bring work gloves! Rain or shine.
INFO: Alex Sanders ([email protected]).
18 (Saturday)
WORK TRIP – ND Hoodlums Work Trip
Pass the pasta! Join the Hoodlums in their
annual Mediterranean work trip. The Hoodlums
Trail Crew works on the AT and blue-blazed
trails in the North District (Front Royal Entrance
Station to Thornton Gap) of SNP. After a day of
hard work, we’ll enjoy camaraderie of fellow trail
workers with a Mediterranean theme meal at
Indian Run maintenance hut. Come for the day,
stay for dinner, and camp overnight if you wish.
Newcomers are always welcome! Meet at Piney
River Ranger Station, milepost 22 on Skyline
Drive, across from Matthews Arm Campground
at 9:00 a.m. on Saturday. INFO: Wayne Limberg
18 (Saturday)
WORK TRIP – Appalachian Trail, 9:00 a.m.
Fredrick County, Md.
You can get your exercise for the weekend
working on the Appalachian Trail in Maryland.
Expect to hike 2-5 miles. We do battle with the
weeds this time of year. Please bring plenty of
water, lunch, gloves, and boots. Tools provided.
INFO: Leonard ([email protected]).
18 & 19 (Saturday & Sunday)
CLASS – Leave No Trace Trainer Course,
8:00 a.m.
This two-day, low-mileage backpacking format
course is designed to enhance your understanding
of Leave No Trace practices and to increase your
level of expertise and confidence in teaching Leave
No Trace skills. On completion of this course,
participants will be registered as Leave No Trace
Trainers with the national Leave No Trace Center
for Outdoor Ethics and will receive a certificate of
course completion as well as their Leave No Trace
Trainers lapel pin. Cost:$45.00 for PATC Members,
$65.00 for Non-PATC members (Join PATC at the
time of registration and get the member price!).
INFO: Cindy Kelly ([email protected]).
19 (Sunday)
Northern District, Shenandoah National Park
Hike Wild Azalea and Mountain Laurel Marathon.
Hike will be along the Appalachian Trail when
mountain laurel is in peak bloom on high ridges.
We will have our bus waiting at several AT-Skyline
Drive intersections, so hikers can choose hikes
from 7 to 19 miles. Long hikers will start at Pass
Mountain Overlook and hike the AT north to
Compton Gap. Moderate hikers start at Elkwallow
or Hogback Overlook and hike north to Compton
Gap. Short option starts at Gravel Springs and
goes north on AT to Compton Gap. Est. miles: 14-19
(strenuous), 10 (intermediate) and 7 (easy). Very
Easy Option available. PATC Map 9. Fare: $27. Bus
pick-up in DC (8:00) and at Vienna Metro, VA (8:30).
INFO: David Saah 703/352-4685 and Robert Holley
19 (Sunday)
WORK TRIP – Massarock Trail Crew,
PATC Trail Crew, 4:00 p.m.
Edinburg, Va.
This 5-day crew will meet at the Forest Service
Depot in Edinburg at 4p.m. Sunday evening and
have dinner at a local restaurant. Each week
the crew loads up supplies and food and leaves
Monday morning to camp and work in one of our
more remote and beautiful areas. Crew will work
together under the supervision of a Forest Service
employee. INFO: Charles Hillon (charleshillon@
yahoo.com).
21 (Tuesday)
HIKE – Vigorous Hike, 8:30 a.m.
Harpers Ferry, W.Va.
This hike will be through three states and will
include spectacular views of the confluence of
the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers. Starting
at the AT parking lot at Keys Gap on WV Rt. 9,
we’ll hike to the Harpers Ferry area where we’ll
circumnavigate the town via Loudon Heights
and Maryland heights, with an ice cream buying
opportunity in Harpers Ferry, then return to
the parking area via the AT. 18 miles with about
3,000 feet of climb. INFO: Tom Kloster (twk07@
comcast.net).
22 (Wednesday)
CLASS – Alaska Adventure (REI)
Columbia, Md., 7:00 p.m.
Stunning scenery, amazing wildlife and fascinating
history only begin to describe all that Alaska has
to offer. REI staff member Gary spent a summer as
an outdoor guide in Skagway and he will share his
experiences and adventures in Alaska through this
13
fascinating slide presentation. Come be inspired
by his photographs of still-pristine wilderness and
learn about travel opportunities. INFO: Register/
info: http://www.rei.com/stores/Columbia.
22 (Wednesday)
Kensington, Md.
We shall meet at the parking lot of Kensington
Park Library 4201 Knowles Avenue, Kensington,
MD 20895. The 4-5 miles walk will take us through
a well shaded path along a creek towards
Rockville Pike, through the lovely town of Garret
Park and back via the bike trail of Rock Creek
Park to the library. There is an optional stop for
lunch at a shopping area before the return to
the parking lot. The Kensington Historic District
is just around the corner of the library and also
offers a nice addition to the hike. Bring plenty of
water. Directions: From the Beltway take Exit 33 to
Connecticut Avenue northbound and go 1.8 miles
to a left turn on Knowles Avenue. Go .3 miles to the
library. INFO: Ayana Touval, 301/493-8278.
22 (Wednesday)
25 (Saturday)
CLASS – Wilderness First Aid, 8:30 a.m.
Join us for a 20-hour Wilderness First Aid
Class! Learn how to get help, move/transport
patients, conduct patient assessments,
document incidents, handle medical and
environmentalemergencies, prevent and care for
injuries, and much more. There will be plenty of
hands-on practice time as well as scenarios. Class
will be conducted inside and outside on the trail.
Each student will receive a certification card good
for two years through ECSI and a waterprooffield
guide. Cost of this class is $180, and preregistration is required. Class will be held in
Frederick, Md. Contact Saleena DeVore for more
info or registration forms. No experience required.
Class sponsored by Trail Patrol. INFO: Saleena
DeVore ([email protected]) 410/456-6861.
25 (Saturday)
WORK TRIP – Reese Hollow Shelter
Construction, 8:30 a.m.
Help build the Reese Hollow shelter on PATC’s
Little Cove tract. This is a Saturday and Sunday
work effort. You will be able to stay at the Little
Cove cabin, which has modern facilities.
25 (Saturday)
WORK TRIP – Cadillac Crew Work Trip,
9:30 a.m.
Capon Springs, W.Va.
Join the Cadillac Crew to continue working on the
new Tuscarora relocation near Capon Springs,
W.Va. We’ll be tenting overnight at nearby Hawk
Campground. Bring your lunch and water for
Saturday and camping gear. Community supper
and breakfast on Sunday. INFO: Jon or Katherine
Rindt ([email protected]) 540/635-6351.
14
26 (Sunday)
Cove cabin, which has modern facilities.
25 & 26 (Saturday & Sunday)
CLASS – Rigging Workshop, 9:00 a.m.
PATC’s Rigging Workshop will provide instruction
on Griphoist operation and maintenance, highline
setup, and the determination of safe Working
Load Limits for slings, shackles, and wire rope
assemblies. Morning presentations will be
followed by hands-on practice with Griphoist
machines on the grounds of Pinnacles Research
Station in Shenandoah National Park. On Sunday,
workshop attendees will put their new skills into
practice building a stream crossing on one of
Shenandoah’s side trails. Pinnacles Research
Station will be available on Friday the 24th for
anyone wishing to arrive the evening before the
Workshop. Pinnacles has limited bunk space,
but unlimited camping on the grounds next to
the building. The classroom session will begin
promptly at 9:00 a.m., so please allow enough
time for your travel to SNP. A registration fee
of $20.00 will be collected in advance of the
workshop to cover hand-outs, Saturday lunch,
dinner, and Sunday breakfast. INFO: Dan Dueweke
26 (Sunday)
Mason-Dixon Trail, Otter Creek to Shenks
Mare Landing, York Co., PA.
This hike includes scrambles over boulders
on the banks of the scenic river and will take
us up through several idyllic glens formed by
Susquehanna tributaries. This is a new hike for
the Wanderbirds, recommended to us by the York
Hiking Club, which maintains the Mason-Dixon
Trail, so at this time it hasn’t been fully scouted
yet. Map: Mason-Dixon Trail Map #5 (York Hiking
Club). Fare: $27. Bus pick-up in DC (8:00) & at
Grosvenor Metro, Md. (8:30). INFO: Bill Peters
301/741-7916 and Leslie Taylor (wbcontact@
wanderbirds.org) 301/980-6525.
26 (Sunday)
Cove cabin which has modern facilities. INFO:
Pete Brown ([email protected]).
28 (Tuesday)
Central District, Shenandoah National Park, VA
Big Meadows/Rapidan Loop followed by Tea with
the First Ladies. Meet at Big Meadows Lodge for a
day of fast-paced hiking followed by tea with Lou
Hoover and Eleanor Roosevelt. The tea consists
of a historical narrative while the First Ladies’
favorite desserts and tea are served from 3:00 to
4:30 p.m. The cost is $18. Dial 800/999-4714, and
press 1 for tea reservations. Highlights of the hike
include Lewis Falls, Hazeltop, Camp Hoover, and
Rose River or Dark Hollow Falls; 20 miles and 4000
feet of ascent with short cut options. INFO: Dave
Green, 703/536-5189 ([email protected]).
28 (Tuesday)
MEETING – Shenandoah Mountain Rescue
Group (Business meeting), 7:30 p.m.
28 (Tuesday)
MEETING – Executive Council Meeting,
7:00 p.m.
Club officers meet to set agenda and discuss
operations. INFO: Staff Direcctor ([email protected]).
29 (Wednesday)
CLASS – Ultralight Backpacking (REI)
Bailey’s Crossroads, Va. 7:00 p.m.
Many backpackers believe in going light to cover
more ground with less effort, and more fun. Join
us for an evening’s exploration of, “What do I
really need, and how can I carry less?” We’ll
cover stoves, food, clothing, shelter and sleep
systems, packs, hiking poles, weather, first aid,
campsite selection and re-supply. INFO: Register
at http://www.rei.com/stores/34.
29 (Wednesday)
Gaithersburg, Md.
About 5 varied miles over rolling terrain in
Seneca Creek State Park. Meet in the Visitor
Centerparking lot at 10:15 a.m. Bring water. No
dogs. From the Beltway, exit to I-270 N. After
about 7 mi. (at the exit for Rt. 370), move into the
local lanes. In about 3 mi., take Exit 10 (for Rt. 124
West and Rt. 117 West). Follow the signs for Rt.
117, which becomes Clopper Rd. (and is still Rt.
117). After 2.1 mi., turn left into the park. In 0.1 mi.,
take the first right toward the Park Offices (Visitor
Center). In 0.1 mi., park at the end of the road.
Since this is our last hike until September, we will
lunch at a restaurant after the hike. INFO: Sue
King 703/356-6659.
29 (Wednesday)
July
1 (Friday)
DEADLINE – (August) Potomac Appalachian
Material due to editors 5:00 p.m.
All items for the next issue of the newsletter due.
Send Forecast events to PA-Forecast@patc.
net and all other articles to the editor at PA@
patc.net. NOTE: Do not send photos or articles to
headquarters. E-mail for address.
5 (Tuesday)
HIKE – Vigorous Hikers
Location given on web site
Fast-paced and strenuous, generally 15–20 miles
and 2–5,000’ of ascent. See schedule at http://
groups.google.com/group/Vigorous-Hikers.
5 (Tuesday)
MEETING – Trail Patrol, 7:30 p.m.
6 (Wednesday)
9 (Saturday)
WORK TRIP – DC Crew Work Trip, 8:30 a.m.
Join us on the trails for a few hours this Saturday
morning! The DC Crew will be working in
RockCreek Park on a needy trail section. Meet at
the Nature Center just south of Military Road at
8:20 AM and carpool to the worksite at 8:30AM.
All are welcome. No experience necessary. PATC
and NPS will provideall tools and instruction.
Please wear appropriate footwear for a few hours
on the trails and bring work gloves! Rain or shine.
INFO: Alex Sanders ([email protected]).
9 (Saturday)
WORK TRIP – Appalachian Trail, 9:00 a.m. MD
Join our volunteer crew, enjoy the peace of the
woods and go home happy and tired. Bring plenty
of water, lunch, gloves and boots. If it is hot, we
will work and quit early. INFO: Leonard Keifer
9 (Saturday)
WORK TRIP – Spooky Beaver Work Trip,
9:00 a.m.
Join the Spooky Beaver Trail Crew in Prince
William Forest Park, Triangle, Va. This historic
national park is close to the metro area off I-95,
exit 150B. We meet at 9:00 am in the side parking
lot of the Pine Grove Picnic Area, near the Visitors
Center, and typically work until mid afternoon.
Wear boots, bring water and a small lunch snack,
and dress for the weather. INFO: Liles Creighton
410/573-0067 ([email protected]) or Mark Ellis
9 (Saturday)
WORK TRIP – Roaring Tuskers Trail Crew
Work Trip, 9:00 a.m.
We’ll be improving hiking trails in the beautiful
woods of Sleepy Creek Wildlife Management
Area. No experience? Join us and we’ll provide
some with comradery. Bring lunch, water and
work gloves. INFO: Steve Sharp (stevenlsharp@
comcast.net) 240/338-3655.
12 (Tuesday)
and 2–5,000’ of ascent. See schedule at http://
12 (Tuesday)
MEETING – NO Council Meeting, 7:00 p.m.
NO COUNCIL MEETING JAN., JULY, OR NOV.
INFO: Staff Director ([email protected]).
13 (Wednesday)
16 (Saturday)
EVENT – Robert Humphrey Cabin Dedication
The Weaver Cabin is being re-dedicated as the
Robert Humphrey Cabin, in honor of Robert’s
decades of service to the cabins and shelters of
PATC. Ceremony at 1:00 p.m. Please contact Jack
Adams if you plan to attend. INFO: Jack Adams
16 (Saturday)
CLASS – Basic Wilderness First Aid, 9:00 a.m.
Day one of this two-day class covers Adult CPR
and AED and AmericanHeart Association First
Aid. You will receive atextbook and acertification
card good for two years. Day two is American
Safety andHealth Institute (ASHI) Basic
Wilderness First Aid. You will learn howto do
bleeding control, splinting, and other basic first aid
skills inthe wilderness setting. There will be plenty
of hands-on time, andparamedics with years of
backcountry experience willteach theclasses. The
cost of the class is $130, and will be held at PATC
headquarters. Preregistration is required no later
than theFridayone week prior to the class. For
more information or to download the registration
form or contact Saleena DeVore. This class is
sponsored by the Trail Patrol. INFO: Saleena
DeVore ([email protected]) 410/456-6861.
16 (Saturday)
WORK TRIP – ND Noodlums Work Trip,
9:00 a.m.
It’s all good! Join with the Hoodlums in their
annual BBQ work trip. The Hoodlums Trail Crew
works on the AT and blue-blazed trails in the North
District (Front Royal Entrance Station to Thornton
Gap) of SNP. After a day of hard work, we will
enjoy the camaraderie of fellow trail workers with
a BBQ theme meal at Indian Run maintenance
hut. Come for the day, stay for dinner, and camp
overnight if you wish. Or just come out and work
with us for the day. Newcomers are always
welcome! We will meet at Piney River Ranger
Station, milepost 22 on Skyline Drive just across
from Matthews Arm Campground at 9:00 am on
Saturday. INFO: Wayne Limberg (wplimberg@aol.
com) 703-533-8639.
23 (Saturday)
CLASS – Hike Leader Training, 8:00 a.m.
Vienna, VA
One-day course is designed to prepare hikers
to lead hikes. The course uses classroom and
outdoor instruction to prepare participants with
skills to lead safe and enjoyable hikes while
minimizing the impact to the trail. Topics covered
include emergencies, personal equipment,
Leave No Trace, leadership, planning, standard
procedures and navigation. Scenario exercises
will also be used to emphasize hike leadership
skills. Registration: Send payments to PATC,
HLT Course, 118 Park Street, SE, Vienna, VA
22180-4609. Pre-registration is required to assist
in course preparation. INFO: Eric VanNortwick
23 (Saturday)
WORK TRIP – Cadillac Crew Work Trip,
9:30 a.m. Near Martinsburg, W.Va.
Join the Cadillac Crew to install a much needed
bridge for the Tuscarora Trail across Meadow
Branch near Devils Nose in Sleepy Creek Wildlife
Management Area. Over night at John Spies’
house outside of Berkeley Springs. Bring your
lunch and water for Saturday. Community supper
and breakfast on Sunday. INFO: Jon or Katherine
Rindt ([email protected]) 540/635-6351.
26 (Tuesday)
Fast-paced and strenuous, generally w miles and
2-5,000’ of ascent. See the schedule at http://
26 (Tuesday)
MEETING – Executive Committee Meeting,
7:00 p.m.
Club officers meet to set agenda and discuss
operations. INFO: Staff Director ([email protected]).
26 (Tuesday)
MEETING – Shenandoah Mountain Rescue
Group (Business meeting), 7:30 p.m.
19 (Tuesday)
and 2-5000’ of ascent. See the schedule at http://
20 (Wednesday)
Volunteer from home
20 (Wednesday)
MEETING – New Members Meeting, 7:30, p.m.
Vienna, VA
Co-Features Editor needed for the
PA. You only need a computer with
broadband access and Office 2007,
along with the desire to help meet
editing deadlines. Time required
is a few hours each month, with
access to documents at your own
convenience. Contact Rachel at PA@
patc.net for more info.
Meet other new members, see PATC HQs, & get
questions answered. PATC at 118 Park Street, SE,
Vienna, VA 22180 or call in to participate via phone
1-877/746-4263 02 03 572# or Skypepatcnet. INFO:
Alan Day ([email protected]).
15
TrailheAd
In April I wait-listed into Peter Jensen’s
felling workshop at Boiling Springs. This is
a one-day course that can lead to a felling
endorsement and is open to intermediate
sawyers. We learned basic felling, how to
deal with standing trees that have extreme
lean, and how to fell live trees against
the lean (I got to fell a 60-foot tree 180°
against a four-foot head lean; very cool!).
One topic that came up was the recent
decision by the Pennsylvania Department
of Conservation and Natural Resources
to adopt ATC requirements for sawyers
on DCNR properties. Pennsylvania
now requires current certification and
“working to rule” for volunteers removing
trees on trails. In practice, this means that
coverage by workers’ compensation and
state liability insurance is dependent upon
current certification and using the personal
protection equipment and techniques
taught by the ATC/U.S. Forest Service
certification course. Happily, accidents
involving PATC sawyers are extremely
uncommon. But, accidents involving
sawyers tend not to be minor. And, if
a non-sawyer is involved, the situation
becomes compounded.
There are one or two members who
offer comments when Mary and I suit up
for chainsaw work. In my business as a
watchmaker, I am used to other workers
who comment that I “waste” too much
time in the way I do things. My approach
in both situations is to remain silent with
the simple knowledge that I am certain of
my outcomes.
If you, the reader, have ideas about
how we can make the Trailhead column
more useful to you, please send us your
ideas. Mary and I can be reached at
[email protected].
District Manager Needed
District manager needed for Potomac
Heritage & Great Falls Trail ~ Map D.
Contact Bruce Glendening at 703/5329093, [email protected].
16
Riverheads HS Teams With
Flying McLeods
Riverheads High School environmental
science teacher Jo-el Nelson and six
Honor Society students made up the
Flying McLeods crew to finish work on
the steep trail down to the Blackrock
Hut spring. The students hardened the
badly eroded pitch with stone steps and
set riprap along the sides to prevent
erosion of the banks. A torrential storm
the day before had water running down
the hut trail into the work area, so the
crew diverted the flow into a nearby
waterbar. Cutting an oak blowdown on
the hut trail with the “low emission”
(crosscut) saw rounded out the students’
experience. Most of the students had
worked on the first part of this project
in October, so they fell quickly back into
the routine. Five of the six will graduate
this spring and go on to other things,
taking with them a good experience of
volunteer service PATC-style.
Visit www.southshenandoah.net for the
Flying McLeod’s work trip schedule and
more trail activities in the South District
of Shenandoah National Park or contact
Mark Gatewood at mwgatewood@gmail.
com or 540/248-0442.
Crew at the Eagle Rock view near
Capon Springs
Photo by Jon Rindt
TT Relocation at Capon Springs
On a cool weekend in March with the
forecast of snow, the Cadillac Crew
began work on a Tuscarora Trail
relocation project. The seven-mile
relocation project will put the Tuscarora
Trail on the ridge of Great North
Mountain between Capon Springs and
Lucas Woods just south of Pinnacle
Shelter. District Manager Walt Smith and
others have been working on easements
for this relocation for a number of years.
In fact, it was envisioned some 30 years
ago when the Tuscarora Trail (called the
Big Blue Trail at that time) was being
created, but private property owners
would not give permission for a trail.
Key benefits of the relocation include the
great views from Great North Mountain
and that it significantly shortens that
section of trail by eight miles. This part
of the Tuscarora will also become part of
the Great Eastern Trail.
Three-quarters of a mile from the start of
the project at Dry Gap, the crew reached
Eagle Rock, which offers a fantastic view
east to the Blue Ridge and everything
in between. The view was worth a day’s
work in itself. Fortunately, the forecast
snow didn’t arrive until the next day and
actually didn’t reach to the north end
of Sleepy Creek WMA where the crew
improved a tough section of trail.
Access to Wildflowers
It was the peak of spring wildflower
season when the Thursday Morning
Group worked to improve one of
the access points to the Potomac
Heritage Trail in Turkey Run Park.
Thanks to Ceresa, Ruth, Polly, Ron,
and Eileen for putting in a needed
step and doing some good garlic
mustard removal. Unfortunately, points
downstream on the trail were blocked
by a bloated Potomac River—so the
group retreated to the pleasant job of
traveling upstream to view the many
wildflowers highlighted by the extensive
Virginia bluebells with their rarer pink
or white mutations.
The group meets every other Thursday
morning from 10:00 am to 12:30 pm
with optional free chips and soda
afterwards. Since locations vary
along the Potomac Heritage Trail
on the Virginia side of the Potomac,
it is best to be on the e-mail list.
Contact:[email protected].
Fish on the Potomac
The Thursday Morning Group solved
mundane sidehilling and step building
work along the Potomac Heritage
Trail, but half the fun is just watching
the Potomac River. This day’s excitement
was viewing a flotilla of fishermen.
The fishermen sat in the midst of
splashes from the fish spring migration.
But the catch of the day was a 44-pound
rockfish. If he kept it, the fisherman
declared it would cost him a $350 fine.
After the obligatory picture —
it looked hard holding a 44-pounder —
the fish went back into the river, maybe
upsetting the nearby perched hawk
who flew off after hoping for goodies
from the proceedings. So although the
Thursday Group sometimes gets mired
doing mundane work, it can always find
satisfaction just watching the river! june 2011 • Potomac Appalachian
Restoring Dumbarton Oaks Trail
After a long winter of rest and
recuperation, the DC Crew sprang back
into action in April with two ambitious
worktrips on the Dumbarton Oaks Trail.
Designed as a “country place in the city”
by landscape architect Beatrix Ferrand
and given to NPS in 1940, Dumbarton
Oaks Park has declined over the years as
its stonework deteriorated and invasive
species grew to dominate large sections
of the park. Stormwater runoff from
adjacent roads and neighboring parcels
have worsened too, and the hiking trail
has eroded. So the crew began its work
by first rebuilding the trail tread. They
installed a turnpike, added cribbing
on another stretch, and dug in several
waterbars and checkdams on vulnerable
sloped sections. Thanks go to Ranger
Ken Ferebee, the hardworking students
at the nearby British School, and the
many volunteers who endured a cold,
rainy Saturday morning to repair the trail.
Through a happy coincidence, area
residents celebrated the beginnings of
the Dumbarton Oaks Parks Conservancy
in April as well. We look forward to
working with the Conservancy and are
glad to contribute to the repair of a once
lovely park.
Phi Kappa Tau Brothers Pitch In
Rocky Run Shelter Overseer Andy
Protigal reports seven volunteers
from the Phi Kappa Tau fraternity at
Shepherd University worked hard at
the historic shelter on April 9. The
seven fraternity brothers put forth a
tremendous amount of effort in tearing
down an old deck structure and privy.
They hauled out an estimated 1,000
pounds of debris over the half-mile
trek between the shelter and the closest
access point, making many round trips. Hats off to the Phi Kappa Tau fraternity
brothers for their support of Andy and
PATC on this work event! Massanutten District Annual Work Party
On April 30, 2011, the Virginia Happy
Trails Running Club held its annual
work party in the Massanutten district
of the George Washington and Jefferson
National Forest. In coordination with
hikers, bikers, and horse groups from
the Mid-Atlantic Off Road Enthusiasts,
Shenandoah Valley Bicycle Coalition,
Old Dominion Endurance Rides, and
PATC, they did various chores along
the Massanutten and side trails. The
groups painted blazes, inspected and
restored sections of trail, and removed
blowdowns and vegetation. Overall
the groups cleared and chainsawed 45
miles of trails. PATC thanks all of the
members of these organizations who
supported this effort.
-----------------------------------------------To work with a crew, contact either the
district manager listed at the end of the
article or Catherine Kelleher (Supervisor
of Trails) at [email protected].
(Opposite page, bottom) Students form
“rock brigade” to hand down rocks for
riprap on the banks above completed
stairs to Blackrock Hut spring
Photo by Mark Gatewood
Steve Syphax and Madeleine Levin carry
lumber to its final resting place on the
Dumbarton Oaks Trail
Photo by Stephanie Deckter
17
DON’T WAIT! REGISTER NOW FOR THE
2011 ‘POTOMAC APPLACHIAN TRAIL
CLUB DAY’ & PATC PICNIC!
Join other PATC members and their friends for this
family-oriented camping and activities weekend
at Greenbrier State Park in Maryland. The
weekend will be capped off with our PATC Picnic
on Saturday afternoon.
Entrance to the park is FREE! Simply tell the
ranger at the ticket booth that you are a member
of PATC.
WHEN: Friday evening, June 10 – Campers arrive
Saturday, June 11, 2011 – “Potomac Appalachian
Trail Club Day”
WHERE: Greenbrier Sate Park, 21843 National
Pike, Boonsboro, MD
SCHEDULE: 9:00 a.m. Activities begin;
3:00 p.m. PATC picnic begins at one of the gazebos
by the lake; 7:00 p.m.Appalachian Trail thru-hike
presentation at visitor center
ACTIVITIES
– PATC-led hikes on the Appalachian Trail to
Annapolis Rocks and Washington Monument
– Nature hike on trails in the park, led by park
ranger and PATC member Milissa Wertz
– Informational displays about PATC, Leave
No Trace and Wilderness First Aid by the
Trail Patrol
– Rock climbing at Annapolis Rocks led by the
Mountaineering Group
– Trail maintenance demonstration on Bartman
Trail by The South Mountaineers
Or simply spend the day relaxing in camp or at the
beach. There is swimming in the park’s pristine
lake under the watchful eye of lifeguards, as well
as fishing or paddling a boat on the lake. There is
something for everyone!
CAMPING – REGISTER NOW!
We have reserved ten campsites for Friday and
Saturday evenings, June 10 and 11. Eight of these
sites are non-electric tent sites in the Dogwood
Loop, and if you wish to bring a pop-up camper
or RV, we also have two electric sites located in
the Cedar Loop. Leashed dogs are allowed in the
Dogwood Loop only.
To view section and site locations, go to the
campground map at: http://www.dnr.state.md.us/
publiclands/pdfs/Greenbrier%20Campground.pdf
HOW TO REGISTER: Indicate on your registration
form which site you would prefer, along with at
least two alternate sites, in case your first choice
is not available. You will be contacted with your
site location at least a week before the event.
There will be a charge of $6.00 for any cancelled
reservations that cannot be refilled. Once all
the PATC sites have been reserved, you will be
on your own to reserve your own site. If all the
PATC sites are taken when your registration is
received, we will let you know immediately and
refund your reservation fee so you can reserve
any other available site on your own. If you have
any questions, contact Randy Motz at activities@
patc.net or 240-338-3816.
The costs for Friday and Saturday nights
(two-night minimum) are:
Tent Sites: $52.20/2 nights
Electric Sites: $62.20/2 nights
PLEASE NOTE: Effective, November 1, 2009, the
consumption, or possession, of an open container
of an alcoholic beverage is prohibited in all State
Park areas, including campgrounds.
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED! To put on a picnic of
this magnitude, we will need a large number of
volunteers. If you are interested in volunteering,
or have questions about this event, contact
Randy Motz at 240-338-3816 or activities@
patc.net
“Potomac Appalachian Trail Club Day”
Saturday June 11, 2011
Registrations and payment must be received by Randy Motz, Supervisor
of Activities, no later than Thursday June 2, 2011. Payments WILL NOT BE
ACCEPTED on the day of the picnic.
Name: PE 330 PATC Tick Key $4.76 Members,
$5.95 Non-members
PE 315 PATC Old Rag Bandana $8
Members, $10 Non-members
PE 260 PATC Short Sleeve T Shirt $15
Members and Non-members
PE 320 PATC Volunteer Hat $12
Members and Non-members
All available now at the Vienna
Headquarters or www.patc.us/store.
CAMPSITE RESERVATION:
Please reserve the following campsite for me:
(*Number your choices 1–3)
DOGWOOD LOOP #18
#19
#20
#53
#54
#55
CEDAR LOOP #27
#28
#21
#24
Total $ enclosed for campsite: $
Phone: (day)
(evening)
GRAND TOTAL ENCLOSED: $
(required)
PICNIC RESERVATIONS:
4 years old to 12 years old,
$5.00
× $5.00 = $
13 years old to 18 years old,
$7.00
× $7.00 = $
Over 18,
$10.00
× $10.00 = $
Total $ enclosed for picnic: $
I will also be bringing (# of children 4 and under at no charge)
PLEASE INDICATE IF YOU HAVE ANY SPECIAL DIETARY NEEDS OR
RESTRICTIONS (vegetarian, nut allergies, etc.)
18
Our unique and attractive club
bandanas, t shirts, and caps make
hiking enjoyable as well as letting
others know you’re a proud supporter
of PATC. And don’t forget to keep your
outdoor activities safe with your PATC
Tick Key!
Dogwood Loop campsite: $52.20 (for two nights, Friday & Saturday)
Cedar Loop Campsite: $62.20 (for two nights, Friday & Saturday)
Address: Email: Spring
is here!
NOTE: Six people per campsite, maximum. You can have as many tents as will
fit on the designated camp pad.
Make your check payable to PATC and note on the memo line “PATC DAY”
Mail your check and registration form to:
Randy A. Motz
18904 Ferry Landing Circle
Germantown, MD 20874
Trail Work Isn’t All Clipping, Sawing, and Digging!
For many PATC members, working
on area trails is a passion; a passion that
benefits thousands of people each year.
But if clipping, sawing, and digging is not
where your passion or abilities lie, there
are other ways to contribute to the future
of our area’s trails and the future of PATC.
Participating in community activities as a
“Trail Talker,” and informing people of
who we are and what we do, is equally as
important. In exposing our communities
to the mission and vision of the club, as
well as providing vital information about
area trails, we help to solidify the future of
PATC by expanding its membership.
On March 31, Rush Williamson, Phil
Sahnholtzer, Barbara Nash, and Stacey
Simkins represented PATC at the George
Mason University Health & Fitness
EXPO. Reports from all the volunteers
were that it was an advantageous event
with which to be associated. Due to the
ages of most of those who visited our
booth, most simply wanted the PATC
web address so they could obtain the
information they were interested in. This
was a clear indication of the direction
that PATC must take in reaching out to
younger potential members.
On April 9, Mark and Betty Gatewood
attended GreenScene, a display of local
environmental organizations, as part of
the 14th annual Harrisonburg/Black
Run Cleanup. Several hundred cleanup
volunteers met at the site before fanning
out over the city to their cleanup areas.
Visitor traffic was good, and the crowd
was younger than we typically meet at
these events, perhaps due to the presence
of JMU. Over a page and a half of requests
for membership packets were collected.
Mark strongly feels this was a beneficial
event and plans to return next year.
Only a week later, Mark and Betty, along
with Karen Waterman, represented PATC
at Earth Day Staunton. Ordinarily an
outdoor event, Earth Day was forced
inside due to heavy rain and dire forecasts.
This event was adjacent to a Farmers
Market and draws heavily from that traffic.
The rain diminished participation at the
Farmers Market, but there was still a
gratifying turnout at our booth. Mark and
his crew collected plenty of signups for
PATC information.
April 21, Bob Wise and Rick Cantor
once again staffed our booth at the Ft.
Detrick Earth Day event. There was an
uncharacteristically small turnout for this
event, and most were adults, as opposed
to a large number of children who have
attended in the past. Bob ran our PATC
DVD and reported that it was a very
nice touch, so much that Lee Shull, the
caretaker at Rieneman Sanctuary, asked to
use it, along with our display, at a talk he
was scheduled to give on April 28 for his
board of visitors. During his presentation,
he told everyone about the Tuscarora Trail
relocation and what a great job PATC is
doing for the Reineman Tract. Since most
of the people attending his talk were from
the Delaware River Valley, and have access
to the AT and TT, it should be good PR
for the club.
April 23, Georgia Harris, Dave Jordahl,
Phil Shanholtzer, Barbara Nash, Carol
Niedzialek, Paul Goudfrooij, Dan
Innamorato, Judy Smoot, and Susan
and Todd Fagan represented PATC at
the Panhandle Earth Day Celebration
in Shepherdstown, WVa. This was our
first year at this event; unfortunately the
uncooperative weather kept many people
away. However, despite the on and off
again rain, there was relatively good
traffic at our booth. The coffee mug
giveaways were a big hit, one going to
a 50-year PATC member who stopped
by and one to some children who were
going to give it to their dad as a birthday
gift. Several visitors asked about PATC
participating in their events, so all in all it
was a successful day.
Other than participating in community
events, what is the Activities Committee
up to? The committee, Steve Galloway,
Mathew Banks, Toni Gazaway ,and Dave
Jordahl, is undertaking several initiatives to
meet the challenge of exposing PATC to
a younger demographic. This is the group
that is the future of PATC.
The Northface and Patagonia stores in
Washington, D.C., have offered us their
facilities to present informational programs
to their customers and will carry our
membership brochures in their stores. We
are also pursuing partnerships with area
health clubs to carry our membership
brochures in the facilities.
Mark Gatewood speaking to visitors at
PATC’s booth during GreenScene
Photo by Betty Gatewood
Participating in online social networking
sites is the key to reaching today’s
younger, socially oriented, and tech-savvy
outdoor enthusiasts. Contact has already
been made with four local online MeetUp
groups who are anxious to partner with
PATC in promoting our events, hikes,
and work trips on their sites. Several
of the organizers of these groups are
already PATC members and participate
themselves in club hikes and work trips.
These groups host 11,000 members, all of
whom are looking for outdoor activities
within a social context. The PATC
Facebook site will also be used to promote
our activities, giving us even greater
exposure to young recreationalists.
With college students ready to head
home for the summer, establishing PATC
chapters on area college campuses is
being postponed until late summer, just
before the new school year begins. Stacey
Simkins, PATC member and employee
at George Mason University, is currently
working to establish a PATC chapter on
the GMU campus.
The Activities Committee is working on
the development of a major hiking event
for the D.C. area, much like the Seek the
Peak fund-raising event held each year on
Mt. Washington. We are also investigating
the feasibility of a combination hike and
wine-tasting event. Both of these events
should draw a host of participants from
the younger demographic.
You can see how important participating
in community events is to the lifeblood of
PATC. Become a “Trail Talker” today or,
better still, join the Activities Committee
and help us reach our goals! Contact
Supervisor of Activities Randy Motz at
[email protected].
—Randy Motz
19
Help WanteD for june
to the Tuscarora Trail (3.2 miles)
Shelters
up for our waiting list. Meanwhile, you can
help when you are available. Ask for details.
Catlett Spur Trail ~ Catlett Mountain to Hazel
Mountain Trail (1.1 miles)
Leading Ridge Trail ~ Skyline Drive to West
Park Boundary (1.3 miles)
Volunteers needed for the AT Shelter
Construction Crew ~ Henry Horn ~ 301/4988254, [email protected]
SNP South District Appalachian Trail ~ Map 11
Don White ~ 804/795-2914,
[email protected]
District of Columbia ~ Map N
Alex Sanders ~ H 703/465-8140,
[email protected]
District Manager needed for Potomac
Heritage & Great Falls Trail ~ Map D
Contact ~ Bruce Glendening ~ H 703/5329093, [email protected]
Volunteer needed for the Tuscarora Trail
Shelter Crew ~ Mike Wingeart ~ 443/791-9196,
[email protected]
David Lesser Shelter ~ AT Map 7~ Chris
Brunton ~ 703/967-2226, [email protected]
Barclays Run Campsite ~ Tuscarora Central/
Map L ~ Walt Smith ~ 540/327-1241,
[email protected]
Trails
Pennsylvania AT, Blue blazed & Tuscarora ~
Maps [2-3, 4, J, & K]
Pete Brown ~ 410/343-1140,
[email protected]
PA Tuscarora Trail [J] ~ Deans Gap to Sterretts
Gap (1.8 miles)
PA Tuscarora Trail [J] ~ Longs Gap to PA Rte.74
(3.3 miles)
PA Tuscarora Trail [J] ~ PA Rte.74 to McClures
Gap (3.3 miles)
PA Tuscarora Trail [J] ~ Mountain Road to PA
Rte.641 (6.2 miles)
PA Tuscarora Trail [K] ~ Co-Overseer ~ Lincoln
Trail to PA 16 (4.3 miles)
SNP North District Blue blazed ~ Map 9
Wayne Limberg ~ H 703/533-8639,
[email protected]
Knob Mt. Cutoff Trail ~ Knob Mountain Trail to
Jeremys Run Trail (0.5 miles)
SNP Central District Appalachian Trail ~
Map 10
Dan Dueweke ~ 703/266-3248,
[email protected]
Appalachian Trail ~ Byrd’s Nest 3 to Leading
Ridge (2.1 miles)
Appalachian Trail ~ Passamaquoddy to Skyland
Stables (1.7 miles)
Appalachian Trail ~ Tanners Ridge Road to
Milam Gap (1.1 miles)
Appalachian Trail ~ North Hazeltop to Bootens
Gap (.9 mile)
Appalachian Trail ~ Bootens Gap to Bearfence
Rock Scramble (1.4 miles)
SNP Central District Blue blazed [north end]
~ Map 10
Melvin Ellis ~ H 703/860-1253 or 540/9879797, [email protected]
No need to wait for a vacant trail! You can sign
20
Appalachian Trail ~ Co-Overseer ~ Beagle Gap
to McCormick Gap (1.8 miles)
Appalachian Trail ~ Powell Gap to Flattop
Mountain Summit (1.7 miles)
Tuscarora Central ~ Map L
Walt Smith ~ 540/327-1241,
[email protected]
Tuscarora Trail ~ US 50 [Back Creek to Gore
Connector Trail (1.4 miles)
Tuscarora Trail ~ Gore Connector Trail to
Hunters Cabin (1.8 miles)
Tuscarora Trail ~ Hunters Cabin to Northern
Rockfield (1.2 miles)
Tuscarora Trail ~ Northern Rockfield to
Southern Rockfield (1.5 miles)
Tuscarora Trail ~ Southern Rockfield to
Pinnacle Power line (2.3 miles)
Barclay Run Camp & Spring Trail ~ Tuscarora
Trail to spring (.2 mile)
Old Coal Mine ~ Whites Knob Trail to coal
residue (.1 mile)
Whites Knob ~ SCWMA parking area/WVA
9/22 to Meadow Branch (2.5 miles)
Tuscarora South ~ Map F, G, 9
Rick Rhoades ~ 540/477-3247,
[email protected]
Tuscarora South ~ Maurertown to Doll Ridge
(6.3 miles)
Tuscarora South ~ Sherman to Veach Gap (3.1
miles)
Massanutten South ~ Map H
Tate Heuer ~ 202/255-6055,
[email protected]
Massanutten South ~ Rte. 211 Parking Lot to
New Market Gap Picnic Area (2.1 miles)
Massanutten South ~ Pitt Spring to Morgan
Run Trail (1.4 m FR 65) (3.3 miles)
Massanutten South ~ Fridley Gap to Boone Run
Trail (3.1 miles)
Bird Knob Trail ~ Mass Mt. South Trail to Mass
Mt. South Trail (2.1 miles)
Brown Hollow Trail ~ Mass Mtn. South Trail to
Roaring Run Trail (3 miles)
Fridley Gap ~ VA 868 to Cub Run Road (2.6 miles)
Morgan Run Trail ~ Cub Run Road to
Massanutten Mt. South Trail (1.4 miles)
Great North Mountain ~ Map F
Don Upton ~ H 703-430-4656,
[email protected]
Mill Mountain Trail ~ Big Schloss Cut Off Trail
Suburban Maryland ~ Map D
Catherine Kelleher ~ 301/493-6956,
[email protected]
[contact for vacancies]
Soapstone Valley Trail ~ Albemarle St. to Broad
Branch Road (1 mile) Metro accessible
Potomac Heritage & Great Falls Trail ~ Map D
[District Manager needed]
Bruce Glendening ~ H 703/532-9093,
[email protected]
Great Falls River Trail ~ North End of
Patowmack Canal to Warning Sign (.5 mile)
Great Falls River Trail ~ Warning Sign to South
End of Patowmack Canal (.6 mile)
Great Falls River Trail ~ South End of
Patowmack Canal to Ridge Trail (.9 mile)
Bull Run Occoquan Trail
Dave Fellers ~ 703/560-2171,
[email protected]
Bull Run-Occoquan Trail ~ Bull Run Park to
Ordway Road (1 mile)
Manassas National Battlefield Park
Janis Stone ~ 703/346-5262,
[email protected]
Join the “Manassas BullRunners”
Greater Manassas
John “Bud” Cunnally ~ H 703/393-9808,
[email protected]
Join the “Manassas BullRunners”
Spotsylvania Battlefield Park
Frank Haas ~ 540/898-2213, [email protected]
Lee Drive North Trail ~ Howison Hill to
Lansdowne Valley Road (3 miles)
Mutton Hollow ~ Map 11
Bill Holman ~ H 434/973-7029,
[email protected]
Boundary East Trail ~ CCC Road [near locked
gate] to Mutton Top Trail (0.5 mile)
Boundary West Trail ~ Mutton Top Trail [north
end] to Meadow Trail (1.0 mile)
Boxwood Trail ~ Parking Lot to Wineberry Trail
[west end] (0.2 mile)
Wineberry Trail ~ Parking Lot to Wineberry
Cabin (0.4 mile)
Mutton Top Trail ~ CCC Road fork to Boundary
Trail (0.3 mile)
Conley Road ~ Parking Lot to Conley Cabin
(0.5 mile)
Meadow Trail ~ Muttontop Trail [south end] to
CCC Road/Andy’s Overlook Trail (0.8 mile)
Andy’s Overlook Trail ~ Meadow Trail/CCC
Road to Overlook (0.1 mile)
www.patc.net
Thanks to the many members who are regularly signing
on and contributing to our website. Together we have
contributed over 200 new events to the online calendar and
posted more than 500 Trail Work Trip reports. Most of you
have mastered your new Logon IDs and passwords and are
regularly logging on.
You can now post Work Trip Reports for shelter and cabin
work as well. These will be followed by land tract work and
general volunteer time. And thanks for your many suggestions
on improving these work-reporting modules. You are helping
to design them.
If you are still among those having difficulty logging on,
please report your problems by e-mail to website.admin@patc.
net, and we will work to resolve your issues. Most problems
can be solved the same day you report them.
Save Some Trees: Get the PA Online
We encourage you to log on to the website and to use the
Member Services area to opt for electronic delivery of the club
newsletter, the Potomac Appalachian. The full-color version
is available for download directly from the website each
month, prior to the first. By using this preference, you will be
contributing to the environment and saving trees by reducing
our use of paper and further contributing to the future of
PATC as we avoid the expense of printing and mailing the
newsletter to you. From our Menu, choose Member Services,
then My Account, and then Personal, where you can change
First of
the Month
the Newsletter Options from Paper to Electronic (or None,
thus avoiding the monthly e-mail notification).
Feedback
Your opinions are important to us. Please keep your comments
and criticisms coming in. Use the “Contact the Webmaster”
option on the site, or simply e-mail to website.admin@patc.
net. Thanks.
—Lee Manning, Chairman, IT Committee
[email protected]
National Trails Day
Saturday, June 4, 2011
Using this year’s theme: Made with All Natural
Ingredients - get your neighbors, local youth,
friends, and anyone else you can corral out on a
trail and see what nature has to offer!
Plan a hike with kids in your neighborhood, get
youth out on a work trip, organize events in your
town around a greenway or other hiking trails,
or introduce friends to hiking by inviting them to
join you!
For more ideas, go to www.americanhiking.org.
DEADLINE FOR POTOMAC APPALACHIAN ARTICLES AND FORECAST
Articles to be considered for publication in PA should be submitted to [email protected]. Digital photos are
welcome if they meet the requirements for a print publication, good contrast and at least 5x7 inches
assuming a print resolution of 300 dots per inch. Please supply information for photo caption and name of
photographer. Photographs need not be connected with a story.
Forecast items to be included should be posted to the PATC calendar at patc.net by the deadline.
HOW TO CONTACT US, Headquarters, Sales, Cabin Reservations, and Membership Information
Address: 118 Park Street, S.E., Vienna, VA 22180
Phone #: 703/242-0315
Fax #: 703/242-0968
Club E-mail: [email protected]
Internet: www.patc.net
Club President (leave a message),
John Hedrick: 703/242-0315
Hours: Monday through Thursday, 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Thursday and Friday 12:00 noon to 2:00 PM
Staff, During regular business hours
Position
StaffExtE-mail
Staff Director
Wilson Riley
105 [email protected]
Trails Management Coordinator Heidi Forrest
Business Manager
Monica Clark
Membership/Cabin Coordinator Pat Fankhauser 108 [email protected]
Sales Coordinator
Maureen Estes 103 [email protected]
Lands ManagementSonya Breehey 104 [email protected]
IT Coordinator
Kit Sheffield
Club Officers & Chairs Contact Info
www.patc.net then select [*contact us] from the list on
the left or call the main number. Contact list published
twice annually in the PA.
Change of Address? Contact: [email protected]
Potomac Appalachian
Editor
Rachel F. Levin
Co-EditorToni Gazaway
Features Editor
Joanne Erickson
Forecast Editor
Robert Fox
Layout EditorEmily Dorr
Co-Layout EditorSusie Mulligan
[email protected]
[email protected]
21
HIKER’S NOTEBOOK
continued from page 1
Juneberry in June at Half Moon Lookout
Photo by William Needham
A Commercial Connection
The names shadblow and shadbush
are more legitimately names associated
with eastern North America in that
they are relevant to another seasonal
event, the running of the shad (Alosa
sapidissima). The shad, like the salmon,
is an anadromous fish, which is to say
that they live in sea water and return to
fresh water to breed (catadromous eels
do the reverse, living in fresh water and
spawning at sea).
Shad were once as popular on the East
Coast as salmon are on the West Coast;
the Chesapeake Bay was the nexus of the
commercially important shad industry in
the 19th century. Shad fish and shad roe—
where each female lays between 100,000
and 600,000 eggs in a gelatinous mass—
were important food sources for the
riparian denizens of Virginia, Maryland,
and Pennsylvania. It is therefore not
surprising that the tree that provided the
mnemonic to get out the nets was the
serviceberry cum shadbush. Overfishing
at the end of the 19th century, combined
with the pollution of the 20th century,
led to a steep decline in shad populations,
the catch diminishing from a high of over
17 million pounds in 1900 to below
2 million in 1970.
There is currently a moratorium on
shad fishing in Maryland and Virginia
in an attempt to restore historical
populations. In the mythology of
Appalachia, the apostate hillbillies of the
Huck Finn ilk called the serviceberry
shadbush as a dichotomy to their more
religious cohorts.
22
Important Food Source
The early flowering of the serviceberryshadbush results in one of the first
fruits of summer, the Juneberry. The
“berry” isn’t really a berry but a pome,
as it has the characteristic papery inner
wall around the seeds (like an apple)
and not seeds embedded in the flesh
(like a grape). The fruit looks somewhat
like a miniature apple with matching
color that darkens to purplish-black as
it ripens, with a taste reminiscent of the
blueberry enhanced by the almond flavor
of the seeds, a sweet, nutty taste. The
Juneberry was an important food for
the Native Americans, particularly those
of the northern Great Plains such as the
Cree and the Ojibwa, who gathered the
berries of the Western Serviceberry (A.
alnifolia – the leaves are shaped like the
alder tree), drying them in the sun to
make cakes for winter provisions.The
Native American trail food pemmican, a
concoction made from dried lean meat
(sometimes called jerky) and animal fat,
was typically flavored with Saskatoon
berries. The name “Saskatoon” for the
Juneberry is derived from the Cree
word for the pome-berries which has
numerous spellings that are variations
of misaskwatoomina. The toponym of
Saskatoon, a town on the east bank of
Lake Saskatchewan, was coined by John
Lake, the leader of the New Temperance
Colony, who had obtained the land
grant to the area, in August 1882 when a
young man came into his tent eating red
berries. On being informed they were
saskatoon berries, he exclaimed “you
have found the name for the town.”
and the Iroquois made a treatment that
was administered to postpartum women
to prevent hemorrhaging.
Medicinal Applications
Juneberries, or Saskatoon berries, are
highly nutritious, containing numerous
vitamins and minerals, notably riboflavin
or vitamin B2 (3.5 mg > 100% RDA),
iron and manganese (1.4 mg, 70%
RDA), and dietary fiber. They have
polyphenol antioxidants similar to
those of the blueberry, and there is
some recent scientific validation to the
historical use of the berries, twigs, and
roots of the Amelanchier genus trees
by Native Americans for treatment
of a diverse assortment of medical
conditions. The Cherokee used the bark
of the Downy serviceberry (A. arborea)
as a treatment for diarrhea and as an
anthelmintic against intestinal worms
Steven Palkovitz
Appalachian Trail ~ Duke Hollow to
Southern Glasser Cabin Trail
The Western serviceberry (A. alnifolia)
was more widely used as a general
medicinal. The Cree used a decoction
of twigs to treat the common cold, a
decoction of roots to treat persistent
coughing, and various combinations as a
febrifuge; the Blackfeet used a decoction
of the berries as ear medicine, and, when
covered with a piece of soft animal hide,
as eye medicine. Perhaps the most unique
application was that of the Flathead, who
used the sharpened wood of the smaller
branches to draw the fluids from the
swollen ankles of their horses.
—William Needham
New Boots
Volunteers Appointed in April
Trails
Appalachian Trail ~ Southern Glasser
Cabin Trail to Ashby Gap
Bruce Agnew
Appalachian Trail ~ VA 638 to
Denton Shelter
Appalachian Trail ~ Denton Shelter to
Power line
Ceresa Haney
Potomac Heritage Trail ~ Roosevelt
Island to Windy Run
Paul Davis
Whites Gap Trail
YOUTH
SECTION
YOUTH PAGE CONTRIBUTORS
Catalin Florea, Emily Dorr, Toni Gazaway
Send emails to [email protected]
“ I did not know that you
could like so much an
animal until I got one.
Of the many things I learned,
the greatest was that of
unconditional love. ”
— Anonymous
FOLLOWING THE SKYLINE DRIVE
I was always wondering how long would it take to drive the whole Skyline Drive (105 miles) if one would
were to stop 5 minutes at each of the 75 scenic overlooks (the top legal speed limit is 35 mph). Lets
assume we do drive with an average speed of 35 mph the whole way (why is that improbable if one
were to observe the speed limit?). Then it would take 105 miles / (35 miles/hour) = 3 hours to simply
drive it. The time spent at all of the overlooks will add up to 5 minutes *
75 = 375 minutes which is 6.25 hours (since 60 minutes make
1 hour). Therefore the total time would end up to be 3
hours + 6.25 hours = 9.25 hours which is 9 hours
and 15 minutes! That means a pretty long
day spent on the Skyline Drive!
Variations
Can you find the 7
(seven) differences
between the two
images to the right?
1. “evidence of stone terraces“
2. “ coffee mug ... 50-year PATC “
3. “1934 ... 256 miles”
find the words CONTEST
Email us with the page number of where you find the words/phrases listed to the left. All
the correct answers will be entered in the July drawing ($30 REI gift certificate)! Correct
answers from April, May and June issues will be considered if submitted by June 20th.
The winner will be announced in the August issue!
23
PERIODICAL
118 Park Street, S.E.
Vienna, VA 22180-4609
US POSTAGE PAID
AT VIENNA VA
Telephone: 703/242-0315
Mon.–Thur. 7 p.m.–9 p.m.
Thurs. & Fri. noon–2 p.m.
international excursion
Machuu Picchu
Photo by Vidal Jaquehua
Travel to the Amazon jungle in Peru for a six-day
exploration of Manu Biosphere Reserve, which
exceeds the biodiversity of any place on Earth.
(Biosphere reserves are areas that are meant to
demonstrate a balanced relationship between
man and nature, i.e., sustainable development).
Declared a World Heritage Site in 1987, we
invite you to join Adios Adventure Travel and
leader Jacquie Whitt on a guided “trip of a
lifetime.” Photographers, wildlife lovers, and
outdoor enthusiasts will have the opportunity
to see giant otters, black & white caimans,
harpy eagles, jaguars, giant anteaters, collared
peccaries, giant armadillos, tapirs, capybaras,
small amphibians, and 1,000+ bird species
numbering more than US & Canada combined.
Choose travel dates from Oct. 3-13 (11 days) or
Oct. 3-15 (13 days). The 13-day trip includes a
train ride, guide, entry and private tour to the
famous ruins of Machu Picchu.
Cost is $2295 for 11 days or $2695 for 13 days.
(min. 10 people, max. 20).
Accommodations in lodges, safari camps
(with services), and comfy hotels with modern
conveniences. Includes full escort by local,
English-speaking guides, one-way jungle flight
in small aircraft, and airfare from Lima to Cuzco,
Peru. Does not include international flights from
U.S. to Lima or travel insurance. Meals included
in Manu. Option for trip extensions before or
after the trip to hike the Inca Trail, travel to Lake
Titicaca, or visit Colca Canyon (twice as deep
as the Grand Canyon) (minimum two people).
Highest altitude will be in Cusco at 11,000 ft.
(unless you travel to Titicaca at 12,500 ft.).
Deadline to apply is July 15. Best suited for ages
18 and up. Contact: info@adiosadventuretravel.
com for full itinerary and registration form, or
call Jacquie Whitt at 757/714-6649
Potomac Appalachian Trail Club Trail Patrol Presents
Leave No Trace Trainer Course
This two-day, low-mileage backpacking
format course is designed to enhance your
understanding of Leave No Trace practices
and ethics and increase your level of expertise
and confidence in teaching Leave No Trace
skills. Through focused activities, handson field experience and both formal and
informal discussions, you will be introduced to
concepts and methods that will advance your
knowledge of Leave No Trace issues, expand
your repertoire of low-impact skills and
increase your effectiveness in teaching these
important skills to others.
Participants should be experienced campers
or backpackers. Instruction will concentrate
on the incorporation of low-impact techniques
in camping and backpacking settings, but we
will not be teaching basic camping skills. This
is a fun course where all participants have
a part in demonstrating the choices we can
make to minimize our impact on the land and
our resources.
On completion of this course, participants will
be registered as Leave No Trace Trainers with
the national Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor
Ethics and will receive a certificate of course
completion as well as their Leave No Trace
Trainer lapel pin.
When: Sat. – Sun., June 18 – 19
Potomac Appalachian
Printed on 100% Post
Consumer Waste Paper
June 18 – 19, 2011
Where: Shenandoah National Park
Cost: $45.00 for PATC members, $65.00
for non-member (Join PATC at the time of
registration and get the member price!) The
cost covers course materials and some meals.
Course Size: Limited to 8 participants.
Register early!
Registration: Please contact Cindy Kelly at
[email protected] or 410/939-5029 to confirm
availability and reserve your spot in this course
prior to mailing in the registration form. The form
is available online at www.patc.net (click the
“Classes and Training” link). Send registration
form and payment to: PATC, LNT Trainer Course,
118 Park Street, SE, Vienna, Va. 22180-4609.
(UPS-440-280) ©2011, Potomac Appalachian Trail Club, Inc.
Published monthly by the Potomac Appalachian Trail Club, 118 Park Street, S.E., Vienna, VA 22180.
Periodical class postage paid at Vienna, VA. Postmaster:
send address changes to: PATC, 118 Park Street, S.E., Vienna, VA 22180
Subscription: (Free with membership) $9.00 annually; $.75 single copies.

JUNEBERRY, SERVICEBERRY, OR SHADBLOW: WHATLS IN A

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