Backpacker Magazine – June 2012

Trail Mix: East

Explore wilderness bounty, see fawns in Shenandoah National Park, and experience three perfect days, all this summer and all in the east.

by: Rachel Zurer

Tags:
• East
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• June
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• TrailMix
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• Destinations
|

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Pack Your Zoom Lens
Spy fawns in Shenandoah National Park.
Wander quietly through the field at Shenendoah’s Big Meadows during peak fawning season (late May through June), and you’re basically guaranteed a close encounter with a baby white-tailed deer, Bambi spots and all. About 150 deer per square mile thrive in the area, and they love to linger near the forest’s edge. The best fawn-watching plan: arrive in the morning or late afternoon, bring binoculars, and plan to stay at least 30 yards away. Once you’ve had your fill of the fuzzballs, walk the 3.3-mile Lewis Falls Trail loop and keep your eyes and ears open for migratory songbirds like veerys and cerulean warblers, which show up in June. Contact (540) 999-3500; nps.gov/shen


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