Aquablazing

When we arrived in Waynesboro, VA we were reunited with some of the Cupids Hikers crew (Owl, Dr.Scrambles, and Vegimite) and a new hiker friend Munchie from Gremany. 

A few fun days were spent in Waynesboro with these guys as we prepared for our upcoming aquablazing trip. Aquablazing is the terminology used when Appalachian Trail thru-hikers canoe or kayak a portion of the trail’s length. We decided to aquablaze 160 miles of the Shenandoah River, just to the west of the Shenandoah National Park, where the trail goes through. 

We stopped at Walmart to pick up some necessities for our 8 day adventure within our AT Adventure! 

American flag bathing suits and Hawaiian shirts were a must for our Memorial Day weekend trip!

So were floaties.... Just because. 

Other items of necessity included but were not limited to: a cooler, lots of sunscreen, 192 beers, hotdogs, steak, vegetables, 8 sticks butter, s'mores, lighter fluid (Again... Just because), all the fixins for sandwiches, and a football. 

We got our canoe and three kayaks from Front Royal Canoe Co. And started in Port Republic, VA. 

And we were off!

^Sunshine was envious of Vegimites ability to stand in the canoe... 

^her attempt to stand sent her falling out of her kayak 

^Owl

We found an abandoned paddleboat and all the guys got in, beers in hands.

It was fun while it lasted... I think they exceeded the weight limit. 

The Dam portages were tough. Carrying our boats and everything in them was an obstacle we didn't expect. 

Our aquablazing experience was relaxing and a nice change. We finished feeling refreshed and amazed that we were able to accomplish aquablazing without loosing any gear due to the rapids. 

We made it to the Appalachian Trail Conservancy in Harpers Ferry, WV. This is the mental halfway point for hikers and boy we were glad to be here!!! 

We were thru-hikers number 291 & 292 to come  through Harpers Ferry. Many hikers get off trail and end their hike here... But we feel rejuvenated and excited to get to Maine! 

Remember... 

Lifes short, do epic shit.

Love, 

Sunshine ☀️ & Youngbeard