Manassas, VA (USA)

[It was another fee free day at SNP and Mollie asked if we could go hiking (!!!). We left home at 0600 and were in the Central District by 0800. We explored the roughly eight miles I still had left to the north of Swift Run Gap, trying to figure out the best section to hike. Along Skyline Drive, we saw several fearless deer and an owl perched high above us as we drove by. In the end, we settled for a section between Lewis Mountain Campground and the Pocosin Cabin, with a backtrack on the road. Never saw any other people. Was going to use Ol' Reliable to squeeze another couple miles in but Mollie was tired. Settled for nearly four miles on the trail. We retrieved the bike and headed to Big Meadows, where we explored the visitor center and wayside. Heading north, we visited the Skyland stables and petted pretty horses. No chance for a trail ride because there was a massive missing-person police search of the mountain going on (complete with police helicopter). Will have to try another day... Exited at Thornton Gap around noon. Weather was awesome all day - was very glad to have a hiking buddy for once! We got gas in New Baltimore (VA) at 1230. On the way back, Mollie and I decided to visit the battlefield in Manassas (AKA Bull Run). She completed another Junior Ranger workbook and got a badge for her efforts. We walked a lot in the beautiful weather and then I drove her back to Alexandria. We played catch at Clermont Elementary School before I dropped her off at her mother's house (1700). AT Today = 1.90 miles / G.T. Total = 680.10 miles]