Mount Rogers

Mount Rogers, Virginia

5,729ft.

Kellisa and I went to Virginia in June of 2006 hoping to reach the summit of Mount Rogers. This would have been our first highpoint that required serious hiking. Unfortunately, the trail we had planned to hike was steep and rocky. We were unable to attempt the trail with Kellisa's store bought jog stroller. I was hoping that we "just weren't ready yet" for Mount Rogers.

6.13.06

Not ready to give up on reaching the summit of Mount Rogers with Kellisa, I decided to solo hike the trail in March 2008. It was a cold day and the trail was covered with fresh snow. I made it to the summit following the trail from Massive Gap in Grayson Highlands State Park. 

I found myself in the area of Mount Rogers and completed my second solo hike to the summit from Massive Gap in October 2008.

There are three trails and possibly a 4th variation using horse trails to the summit of Mount Rogers. Already ruling out the trail from Massive Gap, I decided to try a second route from Elk Garden Gap when I was in the area in June 2011. I reached the summit for a third time. Unfortunately, this trail is not suitable for an ascent with Kellisa. With options still remaining, I am hopeful that I will find a path for Kellisa.

The trail started out promising:



And then the roots and rocks appeared: