Piney Creek Gorge WV - June 28-29, 2024

So after nearly a year since our last adventure, my grandson Colton and I did a repeat trip to the Piney Creek gorge for an overnighter.  Once again we started at the YMCA Soccer Complex in Beckley and hiked a little over 5 miles to our campsite (same as last year's).  We had zero rain but lots of heat and humidity: 86 degrees f, and about the same percentage humidity level.

The next morning, we got up, broke camp, and hiked the remaining 5 miles downstream the the New River access in McCreery, WV.

Over the course of the two days on the "trail" we saw 4 deer, 2 lizards, an American Bald Eagle, and a Great Blue Heron.  Overnight we also heard an owl, but no other night-time visitors.  

Meals were simple dehydrated Mountain House dinners/breakfast, protein bars, and of course coffee for the morning.

Such a simple way to have a great time.  Already planning our next outing!

Enjoy the pictures.

 

1st Trip July 22-23, 2023

 So, at the ripe old age of 61 I finally accomplished a long desired bucket list goal - backpacking.  I have a friend who has been backpacking for several years and inspired me to give it a go.  If she can do it, so can I, right?  I've camped for most of my life, just never had the opportunity to backpack.  

I started collecting and purchasing gear (mostly budget) about 7 months ago and got everything I needed to for me and one of my grandsons to take our maiden voyage.

After lots of planning, and maybe a little guessing, I decided on a route leaving my home town of Beckley, WV and following Piney Creek to where it dumps into the New River in the community of McCreery.  We were dropped off at the YMCA Soccer Complex at Gray Flats and set off.  

The following pictures are a record of our trip.  I'm hoping for many more to follow.