I have had a whirl wind of things going on lately and decided it would be a good time to fit in a backpacking trip to trusty old Emerald Valley. A backpacking spot about a 30 minute drive from town up Old Stage road. There is a quiet little camp spot along the creek side with a nice seating and a big fire ring with plenty of dry wood abound. 
The trail is nice and mellow and about a 3 mile, 45 minute non stop hike.
A cool little water fall not to far after you start hiking the trail into Emerald Valley.
The trail is a nice grade like this for almost the whole way. Makes for a relaxing mind numbing hike.
Fire wood is gathered and camp is established.
This ole 4 season tent of Mikes now Seths is amazing in cold weather. It really stays warm when the temps drop well below freezing.
Beer was brought along and stashed in the freezing cold creek.
Not bad trail food.
I had a nice fire going and it got dark at 5:00pm so needed somthing to make staying out side bearable. I think I still went to bed around 9:00pm and slept really good.
Pictures from around the campsite
An old mine that you pass by.
emerald valley from Jaydude on Vimeo.
I managed to squeeze off a few rounds of ammo as well. Shooting is such great therapy..lol
journeyvision 