After a three-month break, I'm hitting the trail again for another section hike (#6), which will span three days. Before beginning my hike in Shenandoah National Park, I made a stop at the North Entrance for an obligatory photo. The next 101 miles of the Appalachian Trail are entirely within Shenandoah National Park. I intend to tackle these miles through multiple section hikes.

If you plan to spend any nights in Shenandoah National Park, it's essential to obtain a backcountry permit. En route to the trailhead, I made a stop at the park office to secure my permit. A friendly park ranger provided me with instructions on leave-no-trace principles and how to safely store food. I've always admired park rangers, and secretly, I find myself wishing to be one in my next life (if such a thing exists). With everything sorted, it's time to let the hike begin.

I enjoyed a lengthy break at Little Hogback Overlook, where I was treated to stunning views overlooking Shenandoah Valley to the north. I took advantage of the picturesque scenery and captured numerous photographs at this scenic spot.

The Appalachian Trail runs alongside Skyline Drive at Hogback Overlook, offering breathtaking views to the north of the Shenandoah Valley and the town of Front Royal.

At last, I reached Mathew Arm Campground. Although it's not directly on the trail, I had already reserved a tent site before starting on this section hike. To reach the campground from the Appalachian Trail, I exited at Rattlesnake Point Overlook on Skyline Drive and walked about a mile along the road.

With everything in place for the night, the tent is pitched, dinner is eaten, and the food is securely stored in the provided food storage boxes by Shenandoah National Park. My neighbor for the night has a massive RV, making my setup look quite modest in comparison.