#102 Damascus VA to Creeper Trail Bridge#37 Day 41: ATMM 470.4 – ATMM 484.9

Day one of our two week trek across southern Virginia

The Appalachian Trail (A.T.) runs through an arch in Damascus Virginia where we ended our 2020 section hike and where we officially begin our 2021 section hike.

The trail runs through a community park, over a small river, then along the main road through town, where we drop into a local outfitter store for last minute supplies. Several other hikers are hanging around the store. Everyone’s backpack lines the storefront.

On the sidewalk through the downtown, Laurel Avenue and the A.T. become one. The sidewalk itself is a memorial to through-hikers who have died.

Murals are painted on building walls throughout Damascus in celebration of the A.T. We met one of the artists last night at the hostel.

Hikers and bicyclists fill the town. The Virginia Creeper Bicycle Trail and the A.T. intertwine with one another through and around Damascus. The Virginia Creeper Trail is an old train bed that has been transformed into a bike path. Outfitters will supply you with a bike, drive you to the top, then you can ride back down. Or you can figure out your own methods with your own bike.

The sun shining bright and warm is contrasted by a light cool breeze, making today a perfect day for a hike.

Our walk through the town ends with the four of us crossing the road and disappearing into the trees, and of course, heading upward.