About

*You must read the following NVHC Sign-in Sheet Statement/Liability Disclaimer, [https://nvhc.com/signin.pdf](https://nvhc.com/signin.pdf) and then answer the question that you will see when you RSVP with "I accept" to be permitted on the hike.* Join me this Sunday on a 13-mile out-and-back hike along the AT with about 1,900 feet of elevation gain between Keys Gap and the Blackburn Trail Center. Here are details for the hike: * **Start time:** 8:30 a.m. (meet at the trailhead parking area 15-30 minutes early to allow everyone to be signed in and get ready to hike) * **Trailhead parking:** Keys Gap Parking Area (GPS coordinates 39.261774, -77.762335) * **Parking Fee:** None * **Distance:** \~13 miles * **Elevation gain:** \~1,900 feet * **Pace:** 2.5 to 3.0 miles/hour when moving * **Duration:** 6.5 hours * **Hike map:** [https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/keys-gap-blackburn-trail-center-c7a2af5](https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/keys-gap-blackburn-trail-center-c7a2af5) * **Leader:** Chris Bosch 703-216-7801 **What to bring** Bring a backpack, water, snacks, sunscreen, insect repellent, hiking poles if you like. Wear comfortable shoes or boots that are suitable for hiking. Dress for the weather including hat and rain gear as needed. **Dogs** Dogs are permitted on this hike in accordance with the NVHC Dog Policy. Please contact the hike leader in advance if you intend to bring a dog. [https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy](https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy) **Weather** Here's a National Weather Service URL you can use to check the 7-day weather forecast at the trailhead from which we start the hike. [https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lat=39.261774&lon=-77.762335](https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lat=39.261774&lon=-77.762335) In case of poor or severe weather, this hike will be postponed.