By Maggie Raker
We are rapidly approaching the prettiest part of the year. Sitting in the Roanoke Valley, our campus can prepare to watch the leaves turn into their autumnal reds and oranges on the mountain backdrop. And it’s true, we’re lucky to get that distant view while walking between classes. But with luck and a little bit of effort, I would encourage you to chase that view down this year. Whether you’re a camper, a hiker, or a total novice, Salem has something for you.
First, pick your trail. If you’re camping, you’ll need to check what policies are where you’re interested. You’ll also want to check length and difficulty, both to make sure you’re up to the challenge and to plan when to leave and when you’ll get back. Luckily, most of this can be discovered with a simple Google search. You can also see how popular– and therefore crowded– it is. And you can check out some pictures to get an idea of what you’d prefer! My suggestions would be McAfee Knob, the Keffer Oak, or Dragon’s Tooth Trail.
Next, be sure to pack right! Obviously, this depends greatly on whether you’re camping or not. If you are, you’ll need a tent, clothes, food (don’t forget a way to store it away from animals), and more. If not, you’ll still want water and a snack, at least. My two biggest tips are shoes and weight. Make sure the shoes you’ve chosen will be durable and comfortable for a long trek before you leave, and make sure whatever pack you’re carrying isn’t too heavy for you to hike a long way with! And last, but not least importantly, don’t forget to pack a camera.
This is also a wonderful opportunity to invite friends. Not only is it more fun to go with a group, but it can also be safer, especially for overnight trips. Make sure to consult the group when picking a trail and be open about what everyone is willing to do before you leave for your adventure. This is your way to enjoy our beautiful home and relax, so set yourself up for success and get out there.
