Good for the Sole: Heartwarming Stories of Support from Waynesboro's Appalachian Trail Community
The Appalachian Trail (A.T.), a 2,190-mile journey through 14 states from Georgia to Maine, tests hikers physically and mentally, often described as "life-changing." Virginia boasts the longest stretch at 540 miles, where the infamous "Virginia Blues"—a sense of endless terrain—can set in. Appalachian Trail Communities like Waynesboro, Virginia, offer vital support and rejuvenation for fatigued thru-hikers.
"We had a great trail magic moment on Mother’s Day hiking along the Blue Ridge Parkway. A local woman brought an amazing spread of sandwiches, pastries, chips, fresh fruit, and drinks where the trail crossed the Parkway. She kept saying, ‘Call your mothers and let them know there’s another mother out here taking care of you!’ It was so sweet." ~ Staige Davis and Andrea Parra, thru-hikers
We Are Hikers, Too!
In Waynesboro, nestled in the Shenandoah Valley, residents cherish our stunning natural surroundings. Lifelong locals and newcomers alike are drawn to the area's breathtaking greenways and blueways. Just 3 miles from the A.T., we hike, maintain, and even design gear like mountain hammocks for the trail. We hold deep respect for those tackling this exhilarating path and look forward to enriching your Appalachian Trail adventure.
When you're ready to rest your feet and soul, visit the Rockfish Gap Tourist Information Center for shuttles to town and the thru-hiker campground, plus essential services. Stanimal’s 328 Hostel & Shuttle Service is a favorite among trail-weary hikers. Owner Adam Stanley, an A.T. veteran, was inspired by a Trail Angel to open two local hostels. A community attuned to hikers' needs is invaluable far from home comforts.
"I had identified a tailor who could probably sew the pack strap for me; but Adam, the proprietor of Stanimal’s, suggested we go to Rockfish Gap Outfitters first. RGO is an authorized Osprey Packs dealer. Adam thought they might contact Osprey (my pack is an Osprey Exos 58). Osprey offers an amazing guarantee. Jack from RGO called Osprey, and 15 minutes later I walked out with a brand new replacement pack. Woo hoo! I was back on the trail." ~ Beaker, 2017 Thru-Hiker
"I met David Young at Graham’s Shoe Service and asked his opinion about a couple of boot issues. He was fabulous, and fixed the toes of both boots where the sole was pulling away from the upper. It was a relief to have this work done." ~ Karen Edwards, hiker
"Life is too short and the Appalachian Trail is too long not to have a meal at the best Chinese buffet anywhere." ~ Robert J. Sutherland, travel writer from Georgia
Food fuels hiker conversations worldwide. Waynesboro's hearty dining shines in trail blogs: Jake’s Bar & Grill’s "magnificent hamburgers" (per a Spanish hiker), the dog-friendly patio at Heritage on Main Street, and the famed "Best Chinese Buffet on the Entire A.T." at New Ming Garden Buffet and Grill.
"At Basic City we like to surround ourselves with people that have drive, endurance, and a passion for the sublime. A.T. hikers embody these attributes. We built a shower for hikers coming off the trail. We also have a lot of regulars that are Trail Angels." ~ Bart Lanman, co-owner of Basic City Beer Co.
Our breweries, restaurants, and merchants make Waynesboro, VA, the perfect spot for a zero day (a rest day with zero miles hiked). Explore our Guide for A.T. Hikers for tips on lodging, showers, resupply, and relaxation. Refreshed, you'll be set to continue your epic journey!
Written by Naturally Waynesboro for Visit Waynesboro.
Featured image courtesy of Visit Waynesboro.
