March 8, 2026
We started our trek at Mt. Marshall trailhead (mile marker 15) and ended at Compton
Gap (mile marker 10). It had rained the night before, and the ascent to N. Mt. Marshall
was slick. We ascended to the viewpoint (it was still dark out) and then started the
descent and crossed Skyline Drive. We took a snack and water break and trekked a
mile on relatively flat, but well-maintained path. We got to go through a green tunnel of
mountain laurel (no blooms yet!) and it was a welcome sight. We had a small descent to
Jenkins Gap, where we took a small water break and continued our journey. The next
mile was 500’ elevation gain. We passed a nice flowing spring and continued our
ascent. Once we reached the trail marker showing Compton East and West, we
descended a rocky path to our final destination of the Compton Gap parking.
Stats- 6.15 miles/974’ elevation gain
Total North District-23.75 miles/4,733 elevation gain
Park totals- 107.87 miles/23,500’ elevation gain
