Solo Backpacking Trip in mid-September. Need help picking between two itineraries.
I'll be solo backpacking for four days for my 45th birthday Saturday, Sept 12th though Tuesday, Sept 15th.
I have mapped out two different routes.
The first bases out of Big Meadows, and takes the AT south to the Laurel Prong trail. Form there I would go to Camp Hoover before taking Rapidan Road all the way to Bear Church Rock. Then it's Jones Mountain Trail back to Laurel Prong, but this time taking a left at Camp Hoover and back to Big Meadows. From there I should have enough time to do Hawksbill Mountain and return on the Rose River Trail.
The second option would be in the South, parking at Browns Gap. Madison Run Fire Road to the Furnace Mountain Trail. Trayfoot Mountain to Paine Run, and return North on the AT to Jones Run. Take the Jones Run Trail to Doyles River and go North to the Big Run Loop. Take the Big Run Loop back to Brown's Gap.
Both are the same amount of mileage and elevation changes. The South is closer to me (coming from NC), but its only 30 more minutes.
The solitude I expect in the South is a plus, but I've heard Big Meadows is worth the drive. Not sure I'd have time to drive up there just to look around, unless I shortened my route in the South, which I'm willing to do if you guys thinks that's the way to go.
Wish I had time to do both, but I'm looking for any insight that could help me choose. Or any suggestions in changes to my route. I don't mind elevation, but I'm pretty much maxed out at how much I want to currently.