Trumbo Hollow Hike
A beautiful out and back hike on the Appalachian Trail passing through fields, streams, lush forest, and the Jim and Molly Denton Shelter. Trumbo Hollow is an expansive meadow with a bench at the high point. With fields and fences that make you feel like you're in a J.R.R. Tolkien novel the hike down towards VA638 is one more Kodak moment. From the valley enjoy another forest walk before arriving at the Jim and Molly Denton Shelter which boasts a picnic pavilion and gravity fed shower.- Mile 0.0 – From the parking area on VA55, the Appalachian Trail (AT) continues south from the left of the parking area next to a small stream. Shortly cross the headwaters of Goose Creek, then pass through a wetland area with boards protecting the fragile ecosystem. The AT will soon arrive at a railroad crossing.
- Mile 0.15 - Use Extreme Caution crossing the railroad as this track is in use. From this point the AT becomes steeper and makes several switchbacks passing large granite formations. After cresting the high point on the piedmont the trail levels of then enters Trumbo Hollow and a large meadow. At the top of the meadow there is a bench with views to the north.
- Mile 1.36 - Continue on the AT re-entering the woods where the trail descends following one of the ridge spurs. Halfway towards the valley the woods open to large fields with split rail fences. Continue downward and pass through a white fence onto VA638.
- Mile 2.0 - Turn left onto VA638 for 30 yards passing a 2 car parking area, then turn right back onto the AT. This section of the trail is flatter before crossing a small stream. Now continue uphill for another 1.1 miles where this hike ends at the Jim and Molly Denton Shelter.
- Mile 3.3 - The shelter has room for 7 people, and also includes a privy, spring, shower, and several tent camp sites. The shelter is named for Jim and Molly Denton who were active PATC members from 1960-1991. This is the turn around point. Follow the AT back to the north and VA55.
- Mile 6.0 - Arrive back at the parking area and VA55.
