Date(s)
Saturday, 08/24/2019 - Sunday, 08/25/2019
Time(s)
7:00 am - 6:00 pm
Calendar Exports
iCal, Google Calendar
Location
Carvins Cove Natural Preserve
There are tales of a devastatingly gorgeous Sapphire Cove in Virginia. Depending on the time of day, its waters shimmer in hues of sapphire, teal, and deep blue. Let’s take a trip and discover the beauty of the waters from above and upon. Local camping is not available, so this will be an overnight hotel trip. You will need to secure your own hotel room or share with another member. My needs are moderate so I’m choosing the budget friendly Days Inn by Wyndham Near I-81.
Day 1
Hike to Hay Rock. This is a strenuous out and back hike up to Hay Rock with beautiful views of the reservoir below and mountains beyond with an elevation gain of 1640 feet. Fortunately, the temperatures will be cooler in September and we will be taking our time, hiking at a moderate pace (2 miles an hour). We’ll have lunch at the top before returning to the parking lot. Total 8.0 miles.
Trail Head Location: We will begin at the Park and Ride just off I-81 at the US-220 Troutville/Fincastle exit (150B). The gravel lot is by the first turn on your left after you cross under I-81, next to the Exxon.
There is a $3.00 per person day pass required to access the lake and hiking trails. Cash or check only.
Night 1
After an exhausting day of driving and hiking we can reconvene at Lews, a local hangout, for dinner…or we can cast our votes for alternative dining.
Day 2
Time to jump in the lake! Nope…, swimming is not allowed. BUT you can bring your own kayak or you may rent. Let’s get up early and explore the water before heading back home. Daily boat launching fee $5 (cash or check only). Rental prices as follows:
- 14′ Boats: $5.00 per hour, or $15 per day (includes oars and life jackets).
- Paddle boats: The two-person boats rent for $7 for one-hour of use and $11 for two-hours of use. The four-person paddle boats rent for $9 for one-hour of use and $15 for two-hours use (includes life jackets).
- Kayaks: The single kayaks rent for $7 for one-hour of use and $11 for two-hours of use. The tandem kayaks rent for $9 for one-hour of use and $15 for two-hours use (includes paddles and life jackets).
- Rental payments are cash or check only.
The return time is approximate. If you have plans that require you to be back in Richmond at a specific time, please communicate this prior to carpooling with someone.
We’ll make a pit stop on the way to the trail head to fuel up at the Sheetz in Lynchburg.
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