Trip planning input, Mt. Rogers VA. (trails, not gear)

[LyttleBryan]

Hi all,

I was invited on a backpacking trip this weekend up to Mt. Rogers. I was excited until conversations with those "organizing" the trip made me realize that the extent of the plans were "let's go to Mt. Rogers this weekend!"

Anyway in the past I've gone in via Massie Gap to Wise and then up to Thomas Knob. I'm looking at doing things a little differently this time because the Grayson Highlands State Park is hosting a lottery dear hunt for junior hunters on Saturday. I'd rather not take the chance of being in the area for a stray bullet. We were thinking of coming in the AT on Elk Garden Ridge from the Elk Garden Parking area to Thomas Knob for the evening. From there we'd cheat and take Pine Mountain from the AT back to the AT and hit Old Orchard Shelter. The last day we'd take the Lewis Fork and Mt. Rogers trails back to the AT on Elk Garden Ridge.

Is there parking concerns? Are any permits required? Reservations? I've been to Mt. Rogers a few times but always as the "show up and backpack" type not the "plan and worry about logistical things" type.

Any input is appreciated!

[Doctari]

No permits required. Should be water pretty much "everywhere", I think there are a few places you can't camp, or at least it's recommended you don't. & no matter where in that area, it's GREAT hiking!!!