I drove out to the Cascades this evening to scout things out and things look great for a winter wonderland hike through the woods. The road out there is in surprisingly good shape, and there have been enough people hiking the trail already to pack down the snow on the trail so it's not too deep. And everything is so beautiful!
I took the photos above to give you an idea of what to expect.
Yes, this is a hike through the snow, so as a responsible adult you need to decide for yourself if you feel up to the inherent difficulty and risk of injury. But as far as what conditions you could hope for on a hike when you hope to see sparkling ice and gleaming snow, I don't think you could ask for much better. I hiked about one or two tenths of a mile to test the trail and I don't think I ever slipped once. But then I was wearing a really nice pair of snow boots. You definitely need the right footwear for this hike.
Also, remember to bring a water bottle and maybe a granola bar or some kind of snack, and dress in layers.
Originally we had planned to meet at the campus house at 12:30pm to carpool to the trail head. But some students are thinking they may not be up to the hike but would like to eat out together. So how about we all meet up at Waffle House (on N. Main in Blacksburg) at 11:30am? You can join us there to eat whether you plan on hiking with us or not. If you want to do the hike but can't make brunch at 11:30, just let me know and we can pick you up before we head out to the Cascades.
If Waffle House is too far of a walk for you from your place and you don't have transportation, you can call or text me for a ride to Waffle House, too.
Hope to see you at Waffle House at 11:30am.
Steve
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