“Hiking is a bit like life: The journey only requires you to put one foot in front of the other…again and again and again.”
~Anonymous
April 2, 2022
Hike from Rt 606 to Sugar Run Road (Woods Hole Hostel) near Pearisburg (VA)
AT miles: 15.2
Ascent: 2297’
Descent: 1254’
Weather: crystal clear and around 60°. Perfect hiking weather
High points: being in the woods on such a glorious day!
The first seven or so miles today were surprisingly flat! We moved along at a quick pace, enjoying the easy footing and open woods.
There were at least a dozen footbridges crossing lots of small creeks.
Eventually the trail ascended steeply, rising nearly 2000’ in a bit over a mile. We then walked along a ridge for quite a ways, enjoying the incredible feeling of height and the occasional views.
We summited Sugar Run Mtn (3800’) just before starting the descent to our hostel in Sugar Run Gap. After hiking fifteen miles, we were delighted to see the sign announcing our hostel. Advertisements on the AT are strictly prohibited, but Woods Hole is the oldest hostel along the Appalachian Trail, and the sign is grandfathered.
Sugar Run Gap acquired its name from all the sugar maples that grow in the valley. Yes, this area in southwestern Virginia produces maple syrup — the sweetener is not just a New England thing!
Originally a 1880’s chestnut log cabin built by hunters high up in an isolated valley, Woods Hole Hostel was expanded by merging it with another old chestnut log cabin. The sides of the cabin show the original ax marks, and staying here makes you feel like you have gone back a century, complete with home-grown and canned homemade food and a real communal feel. Rumor has it that Woods Hole is the best hostel on the AT, and I concur. It is a truly special place!
Today is a great day for a long walk in the woods!