Black Horse Gap to Daleville 113 Mile Hikes #1 & #2
13.6 miles, moderate terrain
11-mile shuttle, $1.00 carpool fee
The hike goes south starting at the northern end of RATC's
section, Black Horse Gap. Here the AT
crosses the Blue Ridge Parkway (BRP) at mile 97.7.
We parallel the BRP and in 2.4 miles a blue blaze trail on
right leads to the Wilson Creek Shelter. After crossing Wilson Creek the trail
ascends steeply. It then descends steadily and crosses Curry Creek. From there
it ascends steeply on switchbacks to the Salt Pond Road crossing. At this point
you have completed 113-Mile Hike #1 and starting #2.
The trail follows the ridgeline, with limited views to the valley
below. At 3.7 miles the blue-blazed trail on left leads to Fullhardt Knob
Shelter and the wooded summit of Fullhardt Knob. The trail then descends from
Fullhardt Knob. There are a series of switchbacks near the bottom. At 6.7 miles
the trail crosses Mountain Pass Road (Route 652). It then ascends an open
knoll, with good views of McAfee Knob and Tinker Mountain, before descending
and crossing Va. Route 11. The trail continues through mainly old orchards to
Route 220. The Daleville Commuter Lot is to the left.