Return to the Dolly Sods

After a ten-year hiatus, Adventuring is returning to the subalpine highlands of West Virginia! This summer, we will explore the **Dolly Sods** Wilderness and the greater **Monongahela National Forest**. While this mountainous region is relatively close to home, it is a rare destination for our group—making this outing a special treat. (See photos [here](https://www.meetup.com/adventuring-lgbtq-outdoors-club/photos/27065237/).) ### **Accommodations & Logistics** * **Duration**: 8/21/2025 - 8/27/2025 * **Basecamp**: We have reserved **Cairn Ridge**, a luxury vacation home in the Old Timberline community, that comfortably accommodates 8-10. * **Location**: The house is located directly across the road from the Dolly Sods’ **Rocky Ridge Trail**, allowing for car-free access to the wilderness. * **Amenities**: Features wifi, a fully equipped kitchen, outdoor grill, spacious deck with sunset views, an **indoor hot tub**, and a **sauna**. * **Transportation**: Carpools will be organized from the Baltimore/Washington region. * **House Rules**: No pets and no smoking (homeowner policy). ### **Planned Activities** The itinerary is still being finalized, but potential highlights include: * **Day Hikes**: Dolly Sods, Seneca Rocks, Blackwater Falls State Park, Swallow Falls State Park, Roaring Plains, plus the MD and WV high points Spruce Knob, and Hoye Crest. * **Difficulty**: A mix of easy to strenuous hikes, most moderately strenuous. * *\***Special Option***\*: One night of primitive backcountry camping for those interested. * **Dining**: We will pool resources for most meals, featuring cook-outs and Harris’ internationally famous lasagna. ### **Cost & Registration** * **Estimated Cost**: **$350** (includes housing, Adventuring fee, and carpool transportation). Meals and incidentals are extra. * **Deposit**: A $**100** deposit is required to secure your spot. Balance due by June 1st, though appreciated sooner. * **Waitlist Policy**: All sign-ups begin on the waitlist. You will be moved to "Going" once your deposit is received. * **Cancellations**: If you must back out, please let me know as soon as you become aware that you are not coming. * **Flexibility**: You are welcome to stay for less than a week or skip activities, but the base cost remains the same. ### **Requirements** 1. **Experience**: Participants must have completed at **least three previous hikes** with Adventuring. 2. **Agreement**: Please **[click here](https://adventuringlgbtq.com/Adventuring_Release_Form.pdf)** to review our release form. When you RSVP to an event, you affirm that you have read and agree to the terms of the release. Questions? Want to help? Please contact the trip leader, **Harris**, if you would like to help plan the itinerary or lead a specific activity such as a hike, meal or BBQ.