tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-72501730086115686872024-03-18T07:54:00.324-05:00Blue Roads to Hiking TrailsRoadtripping with Gene and JudiGene and Judihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18174560734474569999noreply@blogger.comBlogger1151125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7250173008611568687.post-31130416344932605492012-09-28T14:20:00.002-05:002012-09-28T14:20:34.585-05:00On To Other Things<br />
Today marks our third month anniversary of moving out of an RV and into our new home. I think we’ve settled in pretty well. We’ve furnished our home with almost everything we need to be comfortable. We’ve gotten acquainted with folks in a couple different hiking clubs. We’ve placed our membership at the local church. We know several of our neighbors and have had guests over for dinner a couple times. We can drive without thinking about every turn to Lowe’s, the grocery, and Wal-mart. Gene’s even been to see his new doctor. We don’t feel so much like we’re new to the community any more.<br />
<br />
With all this connectedness, we find we’re busier, and happier, than we’ve been in a couple of years. Not that the full-time RV lifestyle was not a joy--it certainly was, but we missed being involved in a community. We are definitely involved now. Involved with our neighbors, involved with hiking, involved with church, involved with daily life.<br />
<br />
Not only are we busier with community connections, we have started to get back into some of our old habits which we put aside while on the road. Gene makes frequent visits to the local library now. He’s catching up on old hiking periodicals and has checked out several hiking and backpacking books. He’s also delved into the history of Maryville and Townsend area. I’ve gotten back into my cooking and have spent countless joyful hours in the kitchen. You already know we are spending much more time on the trail than would be considered normal. Some might even say we’re among the lunatic fringe. <br />
<br />
With all these other things going on in our lives, I think it’s time to give the blog a rest. I’ve struggled with this decision. Blogging has been fun and I’ve enjoyed sharing with you the places we’ve gone and the things we’ve seen. To be truthful, it requires more time than I want to give it right now. Perhaps I’ll pick it up again when we’re back on the road for our summer trip.<br />
<br />
So, until another time--happy trails and safe travels.<br />
Gene and Judihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18174560734474569999noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7250173008611568687.post-68107589303042312712012-09-24T17:18:00.001-05:002012-09-24T17:18:19.331-05:00Rocky Top<br />
Rocky Top--not the song, but the place.<br />
<br />
I’d venture to say that just about everyone in Tennessee is familiar with “Rocky Top”, that country/bluegrass tune recorded by the Osborne Brothers sometime in the late 1960s. Somehow, “Rocky Top” made its way into becoming one of the state songs in Tennessee and the marching bands of the University of Tennessee have filled, not only Neyland Stadium, but all of East Tennessee with the rousing chords of “Rocky Top” during every football season for the past 40 years.<br />
<br />
Contrary to popular belief, Rocky Top is not Neyland Stadium nor the University of Tennessee though you’d be hard pressed to prove that on game day. As far as I know, the song writers of Rocky Top didn’t have a specific place in mind, but a place definitely exists. And, wouldn’t you know--it’s in Great Smoky National Park and it’s definitely UP hill. And, the best part of all (for me, at least) is the Appalachian Trail runs right across the top of Rocky Top.<br />
<br />
There are several ways to get to Rocky Top. Since Rocky Top is on the AT, it would be possible to walk there either from Springer Mountain in Georgia or Mt Katahdin in Maine. Allow plenty of time. Rocky Top sits high above Cades Cove on the Tennessee side and Fontana Lake on the North Carolina side of the Park. Any of the trails leading to the AT from either of those places will get you there. One popular route is to take Anthony Creek Trail from the back of the Cades Cove picnic area. Many hikers opt to create a loop by adding Russell Field Trail, the AT, and Bote Mountain Trail to Anthony Creek Trail with a little side trip to Rocky Top. Some strong hikers can do that 15-mile loop as a day hike, but most backpack and stay either at Spence Field or Russell Field shelters. These are all fine ways to get there, but we were looking for the shortest route since it was going to be a long, hard day hike for us.<br />
<br />
Our hike began at the Lead Cove trailhead. This is at that same parking lot we used several times recently for Turkeypen Ridge Trail and Finley Cane Trail. We were at the trailhead early and on the trail by 8 AM. Not many folks were out on this cool fall morning. Lead Cove trailhead is at 1700 feet in elevation and rises in 1.8 miles to 3000 feet where it junctions with Bote Mountain Trail. It’s a steady climb, but since we would be climbing all the way to our destination, we soon settled into a pace we could sustain for the duration.<br />
<br />
The trail junction sign at Bote Mountain was a welcome site and we quickly threw off our packs and had a seat on the ground for a short break.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhc2R_72YrOBFpcZfZIK8H-YQMyr5lInEZKftr-qVFQPyysnlDcpaxZSfhW7erREl8MASKTK6f2OIV8hPuYzTgI7igzPljQSFmX1rT5l7BVH3NzHfqpFfSABbIlt8MRwKyenSra6TnMR4/s1600/IMG_0005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhc2R_72YrOBFpcZfZIK8H-YQMyr5lInEZKftr-qVFQPyysnlDcpaxZSfhW7erREl8MASKTK6f2OIV8hPuYzTgI7igzPljQSFmX1rT5l7BVH3NzHfqpFfSABbIlt8MRwKyenSra6TnMR4/s400/IMG_0005.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Bote Mountain was the next hurdle--2.9 miles with nearly 2000 feet of elevation gain. It helped me to think of this stretch in two sections. First was the 1.2 miles to the Anthony Creek Trail junction. This section is typical of Bote Mountain Trail--the wide old roadbed. We continued our steady climb and were at Anthony Creek junction in good time, more than ready for another short break. Not far beyond this junction we came to a very wide spot in the trail. This was the end of the road for tourists coming up back in the days when Bote Mountain was still open to cars. Beyond this large turnaround, the trail narrows and begins the final 1.5 mile push to the top. Before the establishment of the National Park, this was a primary route used by farmers to herd their cattle for summer grazing at Spence Field. The trail is deeply eroded in this section; almost like walking in a gully. Of course, hikers, horses, and weather have played their part, but the cattle did the most damage.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY1WMnb4t1E-bT6gTgndDXeNMG79IPqLOdAJKsDuDqewnl7ae_0PXDNWPJSkfKKZk4VHg8aFOTx4CcMlhrhIykSE48vrj_if-MOS5zafrxSYvFE9DdMIqbLnzkpojhu_rQC6XrcqUHPtk/s1600/IMG_0008.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY1WMnb4t1E-bT6gTgndDXeNMG79IPqLOdAJKsDuDqewnl7ae_0PXDNWPJSkfKKZk4VHg8aFOTx4CcMlhrhIykSE48vrj_if-MOS5zafrxSYvFE9DdMIqbLnzkpojhu_rQC6XrcqUHPtk/s400/IMG_0008.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Another break was in order at the junction of Bote Mountain and the Appalachian Trail. To the right two-tenths of a mile is Spence Field Shelter. The shelter has been renovated as the other shelters in the Park. It would be a nice place for lunch, but we didn’t want to add the distance to our already long hike.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBU_UtLkCej8BPV9viRlOvqZtuoa5i97jFg_f_0t320QN2GZtu_CTzYcZf1lIJ9ZF3nO4qjNq91Ai0yQ20HsL7HsYmfnqLphY7Q0ypJzKq_MtSwRy53m86xVPVBAkhBZvy06KGOCh-NxY/s1600/IMG_0012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBU_UtLkCej8BPV9viRlOvqZtuoa5i97jFg_f_0t320QN2GZtu_CTzYcZf1lIJ9ZF3nO4qjNq91Ai0yQ20HsL7HsYmfnqLphY7Q0ypJzKq_MtSwRy53m86xVPVBAkhBZvy06KGOCh-NxY/s400/IMG_0012.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our destination is the peak in the middle, but first this<br />little bump straight ahead</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjipL4rPwjwU950n8hr0GAM2A-AUpR6pJUgwMdiR9nyIFOqrqsf28bpkykz8DTP9INa8_UJTWZ6dQApm6BHOMmqxIhwYAW71heECCtGSBrfGIulimUut3f1z0cW3cYDDtm5CIreLbSTbdI/s1600/IMG_0015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjipL4rPwjwU950n8hr0GAM2A-AUpR6pJUgwMdiR9nyIFOqrqsf28bpkykz8DTP9INa8_UJTWZ6dQApm6BHOMmqxIhwYAW71heECCtGSBrfGIulimUut3f1z0cW3cYDDtm5CIreLbSTbdI/s400/IMG_0015.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
To the left was our destination just about a mile away. This little mile section was our favorite as far as scenery goes. As you know, we love it at high elevation and this edge of Spence Field offered some open, grassy areas with magnificent views. Plus, it wasn’t all up hill for a change. From the junction with Bote Mountain the AT gently climbs 300 feet, but then quickly loses 200 of those feet before the steep 400 foot climb to the summit of Rocky Top.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh26989Efat9jK_op-KFMNyTHS9erPlsecYDRedRBkWzBzU7UUVAJq8Uc2hDd_iE7D4MMfLYcIYuJw2l-bGYRGIhHde4TCqgAaPMnGIuIaIwfZgo8KQr_JJdBy4R7jzJBap7Pkys0yzhxE/s1600/IMG_0018.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh26989Efat9jK_op-KFMNyTHS9erPlsecYDRedRBkWzBzU7UUVAJq8Uc2hDd_iE7D4MMfLYcIYuJw2l-bGYRGIhHde4TCqgAaPMnGIuIaIwfZgo8KQr_JJdBy4R7jzJBap7Pkys0yzhxE/s400/IMG_0018.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
As we stepped onto the summit, I had the camera out to get what photos I could before the clouds moved in. We found a rock for lunch and enjoyed the splendor of these magnificent mountains over a cup of hot tea and a sandwich.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXSX9aw8hh5l4oImMDmQDxOyFeb-0GOTY-1XeXcUggjcbcYbXt0qXnLbqUNv-keVKhasY4W2jR8l3vqDc007jRgI0dNgi1xOqJdHJAItMvZnS81HytHo20uidOs7yW-A_rgfqf6UffPAA/s1600/IMG_0020.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXSX9aw8hh5l4oImMDmQDxOyFeb-0GOTY-1XeXcUggjcbcYbXt0qXnLbqUNv-keVKhasY4W2jR8l3vqDc007jRgI0dNgi1xOqJdHJAItMvZnS81HytHo20uidOs7yW-A_rgfqf6UffPAA/s400/IMG_0020.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGYT7brU7kl9L-3OfzCtdf_ru9k97pivJLO-SdAlVhlSKE_9IObUaW_wLXwN5JiMWjaIHsnSh5SMsefSOJZ322AcNXg6EpvLO6rdC0qK0OqNtn1hjwXJXng47OP81WDY_3J3c-d7H6_2Q/s1600/IMG_0019.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGYT7brU7kl9L-3OfzCtdf_ru9k97pivJLO-SdAlVhlSKE_9IObUaW_wLXwN5JiMWjaIHsnSh5SMsefSOJZ322AcNXg6EpvLO6rdC0qK0OqNtn1hjwXJXng47OP81WDY_3J3c-d7H6_2Q/s400/IMG_0019.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Thunderhead is just a short distance away, but we chose to sit on Rocky Top and rest our weary bones. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUwPDQEMfM3qr8mZDK3Wr-zCa5eTNdEXLP-3bGggHffGxg94fNEN5DOh83JnTTwS0ZoIXm1egHW0vJ2-2xd4fZOKcT1kVNFU_igrwly2pz8DSnskJ2ZBcshN_panFA5BY-JKw-1mz8GpU/s1600/IMG_0028.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUwPDQEMfM3qr8mZDK3Wr-zCa5eTNdEXLP-3bGggHffGxg94fNEN5DOh83JnTTwS0ZoIXm1egHW0vJ2-2xd4fZOKcT1kVNFU_igrwly2pz8DSnskJ2ZBcshN_panFA5BY-JKw-1mz8GpU/s400/IMG_0028.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
What goes up must come down. We stayed as long as possible before packing up and starting the long journey to the car. We were two tired puppies at the end of the day, but, oh, what an awesome hike. We’ll savor the memories of this one for a long time.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilOmLhmnV3Jmkk-L7APpYeXpzRvdHWbsgl-pve5XzIFVjTZFb0l70ZRF9kIwS5honPYnDqmZHMn9N2E1Jw7bJUiroS-IttmuaIglljbgHt8DDHuQYodZcCb2gBuRh-SnqhaWVzdsYD9Vg/s1600/IMG_0048.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilOmLhmnV3Jmkk-L7APpYeXpzRvdHWbsgl-pve5XzIFVjTZFb0l70ZRF9kIwS5honPYnDqmZHMn9N2E1Jw7bJUiroS-IttmuaIglljbgHt8DDHuQYodZcCb2gBuRh-SnqhaWVzdsYD9Vg/s400/IMG_0048.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cades Cove far below</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
That’s all for today. Thanks for tagging along.<br />
Gene and Judihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18174560734474569999noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7250173008611568687.post-57424687248269255602012-09-21T18:20:00.000-05:002012-09-21T18:20:00.238-05:00West Prong Trail Reopened<br />
We have finally gotten some much needed rain in East Tennessee this week. It’s just unfortunate that the rains came on the day Doug and Cheryl wanted to take in those gorgeous mountain views. The rain also caused us to take a little more time in selecting our hiking trail for Wednesday. Wanted to be sure our hike had the necessary foot bridges.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjubVD8qPFiqdQtCwatWk6VX1MtwoLyozBxzy9Qgw1u9RFKr0Yui279R1pXtKyLG1QoVv1jOB2TY3EDy0_NbKYb2XTFk5sxvX1vN3RHSxupnJ1Nsoh0DFTKWP6QvkIA8teaCrDeQBZF02c/s1600/IMG_9990.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjubVD8qPFiqdQtCwatWk6VX1MtwoLyozBxzy9Qgw1u9RFKr0Yui279R1pXtKyLG1QoVv1jOB2TY3EDy0_NbKYb2XTFk5sxvX1vN3RHSxupnJ1Nsoh0DFTKWP6QvkIA8teaCrDeQBZF02c/s400/IMG_9990.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIjncPVG2s9NHB8RXMFGSoHLlTanlf9ndYKlP-6LrCVP3dSOqQFuZAF2Gm9AFHur9JR6oMbZFGaGkn-YFWfC3AMcelYJHTcn4Z-nEoxYcUcA3v0V70PU-3-oNkDIU5RY6zhp21wzHrVj0/s1600/IMG_9992.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIjncPVG2s9NHB8RXMFGSoHLlTanlf9ndYKlP-6LrCVP3dSOqQFuZAF2Gm9AFHur9JR6oMbZFGaGkn-YFWfC3AMcelYJHTcn4Z-nEoxYcUcA3v0V70PU-3-oNkDIU5RY6zhp21wzHrVj0/s400/IMG_9992.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Our pick turned out to be West Prong Trail. We’d done this trail earlier in the summer, but it has been closed due to storm damage since early in July. We noticed last week that it was open again. The trail is in excellent condition. There were several areas where we noticed downed trees and about three places where the damage was significant. The blowdowns which were across the trail have all been cut and moved out of the way and the trail has been repaired.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ22_gT4_eyrypUa2eCLXLOz2mHvDW8T2-nNHVsZPkq1iPPBbs7lrfoks7jqd0RONHfLXbN4gsdrHY1ZXw04oWzdfthhlVh0EOL4AX74b77aPdlsy2FbFDGXOA3AHQKIEddzUX13aLjxo/s1600/IMG_9989.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ22_gT4_eyrypUa2eCLXLOz2mHvDW8T2-nNHVsZPkq1iPPBbs7lrfoks7jqd0RONHfLXbN4gsdrHY1ZXw04oWzdfthhlVh0EOL4AX74b77aPdlsy2FbFDGXOA3AHQKIEddzUX13aLjxo/s400/IMG_9989.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This log is going to be a nice resting log for a long time to come.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
West Prong Trail is 2.7 miles in length from the trailhead and parking lot just across the road from the Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont to its junction with Bote Mountain Trail. This is a moderate hike with a little climbing to get the old heart racing, but not so much as to make the walk unpleasant. The trail gains about 600 feet in the first 1.25 miles then drops down 400 feet to West Prong and backcountry campsite 18. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNSfbYQw7aqH4RAKrQdJHARQkMyDsiEz7Kvm8tbsEO5FkeKUheMnz1HVHYa6HrOqhCtwfkQECaJYJanPaekqMsR0cEZgz5ed8kArr2JGhdFwBH_qrxbGA5McGFtyqrNW35rXTpBOLCfl0/s1600/IMG_9983.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNSfbYQw7aqH4RAKrQdJHARQkMyDsiEz7Kvm8tbsEO5FkeKUheMnz1HVHYa6HrOqhCtwfkQECaJYJanPaekqMsR0cEZgz5ed8kArr2JGhdFwBH_qrxbGA5McGFtyqrNW35rXTpBOLCfl0/s400/IMG_9983.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
This is a large camping area with sites on both sides of the creek. The largest area is near the footbridge over West Prong. It is typical of most backcountry sites with a fire ring surrounded by logs for sitting and cooking and a pulley system to hang packs well out of the reach of bears, mice, and other varmint. However, to the left of this area and down a well trod path is another, more secluded campsite complete with fire ring and pulley system. Across the creek and to the right is another path which leads to yet another secluded site. It, too, has a fire ring and a single pulley. The map indicates campsite 18 will accommodate 12. There certainly is plenty of space here.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivhbUPBSYnXZYaJA8p74Df0-ahro7hqaq23uaoTzpy37a1MqWoxmumSI9s_0n1ygudPuHNn_119Pxg58lt3VhT03tdgTuATOO43a9XBywrJUujT7d_nMy2_yfhQS6NeUPk8ghSrKsLxPE/s1600/IMG_9987.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivhbUPBSYnXZYaJA8p74Df0-ahro7hqaq23uaoTzpy37a1MqWoxmumSI9s_0n1ygudPuHNn_119Pxg58lt3VhT03tdgTuATOO43a9XBywrJUujT7d_nMy2_yfhQS6NeUPk8ghSrKsLxPE/s400/IMG_9987.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It was a good day for hot tea with lunch</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
We stopped for a short break and to take a good look around before crossing the footbridge and heading up the hill. From the campsite, the trail gains that 400 feet it lost earlier. It’s a steady uphill climb through rhododendron and laurel. It would be absolutely gorgeous in early summer when these large shrubs are in bloom.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLzFwOQ589YkSlkWm_G4kIinoF3Tst307cXrZ8cA-h1b9wsIqV3kL_LctfbCMtMUbo1S-AOnhq-qhtp501Uh1cokbeDAIFLUPgBc42bo25K0Ut7lkvzpGEa6Wbx1seQkeELVDsamX8Uts/s1600/IMG_9974.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLzFwOQ589YkSlkWm_G4kIinoF3Tst307cXrZ8cA-h1b9wsIqV3kL_LctfbCMtMUbo1S-AOnhq-qhtp501Uh1cokbeDAIFLUPgBc42bo25K0Ut7lkvzpGEa6Wbx1seQkeELVDsamX8Uts/s400/IMG_9974.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
At 2.7 miles West Prong Trail ends at the junction with Bote Mountain Trail. Going right at this junction would take us 1.2 miles to Laurel Creek Road which would be a nice 8-mile hike. We opted to go left for just three-tenths of a mile to the junction with Finley Cane Trail. That gave us an even 6 miles for our round-trip hike.<br />
<br />
We were about 2000 feet on the Bote Mountain Trail. At that elevation, we saw the beginnings of some color in the leaves. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGE2lXUrvyjMsl_IXF_i5ncb7FGDg7KBVg_paVv6OrWTUGuIY1fKM80qp0wvLGBA-vOwAfTO5EcMHalnJSGacqMRXS7z5aXiUTwMksYv3gTaFbVY_6QIUa6-e1YTjDx5wGkUMT7_G4cxk/s1600/IMG_9979.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGE2lXUrvyjMsl_IXF_i5ncb7FGDg7KBVg_paVv6OrWTUGuIY1fKM80qp0wvLGBA-vOwAfTO5EcMHalnJSGacqMRXS7z5aXiUTwMksYv3gTaFbVY_6QIUa6-e1YTjDx5wGkUMT7_G4cxk/s400/IMG_9979.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
This is a hike we’ll do often. As with our previous treks along this trail, we enjoyed it very much.<br />
<br />
That’s all for today. Thanks for tagging along.<br />
Gene and Judihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18174560734474569999noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7250173008611568687.post-81810892380473738972012-09-18T15:56:00.000-05:002012-09-18T15:56:31.829-05:00Playing Tour Guide<br />
One of the big advantages of having a stick and brick home over our small RV is the extra bedroom for guests. Since moving to Maryville, my folks have come for a weekend visit as well as Jack, Ansley, and Kayley. This past weekend, we’ve been hosts to Gene’s brother, Doug, and his wife, Cheryl. We haven’t seen them since last fall when we parked in their driveway on our way home from Alaska. It is such a thrill for us to have family (and friends) in our home.<br />
<br />
Doug and Cheryl arrived Sunday afternoon just shortly before the rain moved in. But, we weren’t going to let a little rain get in our way. Monday morning, bright and early (well, not so bright with all the clouds), we loaded in the car for a tour of Maryville, Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, the northwest side of the National Park, and Townsend.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihUS9RlsrTL5BMrwpw-eQj9pprckn216CY5CIyfNmoMmZqQB7PqV6Z9eju99QD-hKO_6c29dBPBal8OkIHIM0xePs42dnPV7lJ3VStcqpeTPDkOdYTx9ZAi0QHtbHQ1a3HhI9iQDEe5Cg/s1600/IMG_9960.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihUS9RlsrTL5BMrwpw-eQj9pprckn216CY5CIyfNmoMmZqQB7PqV6Z9eju99QD-hKO_6c29dBPBal8OkIHIM0xePs42dnPV7lJ3VStcqpeTPDkOdYTx9ZAi0QHtbHQ1a3HhI9iQDEe5Cg/s400/IMG_9960.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
With the rather frequent downpours, we didn’t spend much time shopping in Pigeon Forge or Gatlinburg. We decided on the Old Mill area of Pigeon Forge and concentrated our efforts there, especially in the stop that sells locally made pottery. The rain really began in earnest by the time we got to Gatlinburg so we window shopped from the seat of the car. Of course, a trip to Gatlinburg is almost not complete without a little taste of freshly made fudge. That served to satisfy our sweet tooth for the rest of the day.<br />
<br />
Inside the National Park, our focus was on finding a bear. I’m always on the lookout for a bear, but Cheryl was especially anxious to see one since she has never seen a bear in the wild. We drove through the main entrance then past the Sugarlands Visitor Center. We opted to have our visitor center experience at Cades Cove. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYYnNAOHK6Q3bBE4NFfcJN5iaZy6rZ7KjpoujB_G_mbiaJ2o0uyOATxBC-HW2pI4xO0Dk3qh-aP2HfTPsPBYTYkg1B83rzcLEXEikgwvzUitVFHJBzDWVh9MiNXo8piO0GgR0-NVWNSZQ/s1600/IMG_9961.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYYnNAOHK6Q3bBE4NFfcJN5iaZy6rZ7KjpoujB_G_mbiaJ2o0uyOATxBC-HW2pI4xO0Dk3qh-aP2HfTPsPBYTYkg1B83rzcLEXEikgwvzUitVFHJBzDWVh9MiNXo8piO0GgR0-NVWNSZQ/s400/IMG_9961.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
The twenty-five mile drive from Sugarlands to Cades Cove along Laurel Creek Road is a low-elevation drive and doesn’t offer many viewpoints. Fortunately for us, the rain let up just as we got to the cluster of pull-outs that do offer a view just before reaching the Laurel Falls trailhead parking. The rain had let up, but the clouds were still there to obscure our view of the higher peaks.<br />
<br />
The eleven-mile Cades Cove Loop Road is typically slow-moving, bumper-to-bumper traffic. Monday, partly because of the rain and partly because we’re between leaf season and summer vacations, there were very few cars on the road. We took it nice and slow, straining to see that elusive bear. At the back of the Loop Road, we stopped in the Visitor Center for a few minutes before continuing on. We got pretty wet, even with umbrellas, dashing back and forth to the car. On our way around the Cove we slowed down to take a look out the window and between the rain drops at the historic cabins. At one point, I thought for sure we’d found the bear, but it turned out to be a turkey. He was sorta folded in on himself creating a black lump. Guess he was tired of the rain, too. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyOern6kgIY7XqNEODGXQNF6sTBXb0wvhXGUK86Kf8v9n1nylwTUgadKqz06e5VL5FYlLapo2WSz5ktBiLHQYCgeo7KtKuPf7tG7Ze-CJAE4XaGQimoQg0gPl74-av0F0NacHcLxSanTA/s1600/IMG_9965.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyOern6kgIY7XqNEODGXQNF6sTBXb0wvhXGUK86Kf8v9n1nylwTUgadKqz06e5VL5FYlLapo2WSz5ktBiLHQYCgeo7KtKuPf7tG7Ze-CJAE4XaGQimoQg0gPl74-av0F0NacHcLxSanTA/s400/IMG_9965.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
We made our way through Townsend and finally back to the house. We were glad to get inside where we could stretch our legs without getting soaked to the bone.<br />
<br />
We spent most of our time inside the car for our 100-mile drive Monday, but we’re not complaining. As far as I’m concerned, there are no bad days in the Smokies. Besides, being in the car almost all day gave us just that much more time to visit with each other. That’s what it was all about anyway. <br />
<br />
Gene and I want to welcome our latest follower, <a href="http://gmaburka.blogspot.com/">gmaburka</a>. Glad you’re tagging along with us.<br />
<br />
That’s all for today. Thanks for tagging along.<br />
Gene and Judihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18174560734474569999noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7250173008611568687.post-39896605679268373482012-09-15T18:50:00.001-05:002012-09-15T18:50:49.311-05:00Tennessee Trails Association Hike<br />
<a href="http://www.tennesseetrails.org/">Tennessee Trails Association</a> (TTA) is a statewide hiking club made up of several chapters across the state. Each chapter usually offers a variety of hikes during each month so on any given weekend there will be several hikes to choose from. Today, two different chapters were hiking in the Smokies--East Tennessee and Upper Cumberland chapters. We’ve been wanted to hike with the East Tennessee group since we moved here, but hadn’t yet had an opportunity. Today was the day.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwWf2U02F5ZKjhPNx8QG3D2kEj-gXIPCBkEBVdYiT30mUoWZk_oA54b3ZB-05OTM_T0a4YXswydIfkaCbNtd45AtjPzZ0cGIG8OAIA6FDClnd_l83AVvO5pks3ubb74S_V8S8CwrRI9sk/s1600/IMG_9956.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwWf2U02F5ZKjhPNx8QG3D2kEj-gXIPCBkEBVdYiT30mUoWZk_oA54b3ZB-05OTM_T0a4YXswydIfkaCbNtd45AtjPzZ0cGIG8OAIA6FDClnd_l83AVvO5pks3ubb74S_V8S8CwrRI9sk/s400/IMG_9956.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Rosie, chapter chair for East Tennessee, was our leader today. She had a small group of only four other hikers, but I like the small groups best. It’s easier to have a “group” conversation and I feel like I get to spend more time with each one on the hike. The hike Rosie selected was Middle Prong. This is certainly not a new hike for us. I think we’ve hiked this trail three times, including today, in the past month or so. Because the hike was easy and only 8 miles in length, we didn’t get an early start. We met at the trailhead at 10 AM.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgicUH_1igkXgtw5aC0YRDOzyH0hHM3P6opJeum_EXUbXy1Tqo0WS0m4H0EqeZJd6gGiSAmZwUuAGecreJzGU7KSbmdRjzhCjsauPmdRNZ9MTq5QkSfgA8uFp6UV3bmJSOCC2iGSdulaeA/s1600/IMG_9939.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgicUH_1igkXgtw5aC0YRDOzyH0hHM3P6opJeum_EXUbXy1Tqo0WS0m4H0EqeZJd6gGiSAmZwUuAGecreJzGU7KSbmdRjzhCjsauPmdRNZ9MTq5QkSfgA8uFp6UV3bmJSOCC2iGSdulaeA/s400/IMG_9939.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
I’m not going to repeat the description of this hike, since I’ve already done that twice in this blog recently. We hiked up to the Indian Flats waterfalls where we settled in on the rocks for our lunch break. Lynn Camp Prong drops three different times in this area before finally settling in for its run toward Middle Prong and the Little River. Where we had our lunch was between the first and second drops. As you can see from the photo, some in our group wanted to sit right on the ledge near the second drop. Others of us were more comfortable closer to the upper falls and away from the ledge.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6lyc5qY5-dqO-N4Cx07YkWmT_38bcV4le8zGYnt0ap_xlk061ZW1ui8TQ5yiKz1deoesWtQrS2TJ91tn7V0VTxMQI80PNtXeKt3THAbdlGR7zQQ0tLWUU2Rc1Zj_NOARMhV7q6WLPCPA/s1600/IMG_9941.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6lyc5qY5-dqO-N4Cx07YkWmT_38bcV4le8zGYnt0ap_xlk061ZW1ui8TQ5yiKz1deoesWtQrS2TJ91tn7V0VTxMQI80PNtXeKt3THAbdlGR7zQQ0tLWUU2Rc1Zj_NOARMhV7q6WLPCPA/s400/IMG_9941.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Among the rocks in the shallow water, I found this large seal salamander and this little guy tucked under the rock. Great Smoky Mountain National Park is the “salamander capital of the world”. Five different families of salamanders can be found in the park and on any given day the salamanders will outnumber the humans in the park. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3Mr4ZwkclA8eRq1uUOAeuviUJMmSw7na2K3vaJHrIbv1WvwT5j5Mv5aX2YX1VQfA7g2oPGWxePJ2_Xw2WLjlI1q2Ph9Ose0iYg8w6hpjIyNcN5gLinbMuu6jd-xlg2vIbavlaRZLP7rY/s1600/IMG_9951.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3Mr4ZwkclA8eRq1uUOAeuviUJMmSw7na2K3vaJHrIbv1WvwT5j5Mv5aX2YX1VQfA7g2oPGWxePJ2_Xw2WLjlI1q2Ph9Ose0iYg8w6hpjIyNcN5gLinbMuu6jd-xlg2vIbavlaRZLP7rY/s400/IMG_9951.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSMcvQOkZ9n00qywo_xPCa1mavQmsnGntIvayvxo0zqx3qkbQOxw4dCgIKf1CVJluAkCiX9Q1RyKol7uPu0VM_yBnJ8CiILHmRuWkoMQD2hQTpRfr13VDvWzsYrsQF63XWfODpa4qMf9o/s1600/IMG_9949.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSMcvQOkZ9n00qywo_xPCa1mavQmsnGntIvayvxo0zqx3qkbQOxw4dCgIKf1CVJluAkCiX9Q1RyKol7uPu0VM_yBnJ8CiILHmRuWkoMQD2hQTpRfr13VDvWzsYrsQF63XWfODpa4qMf9o/s400/IMG_9949.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Gene and I have been members of TTA for many years; he longer than me. Because we often hiked with different chapters, we knew many of the members across the state. Since we started RVing, however, we lost contact with almost all of these folks. We’re anxious to get back in the group again. Today was a great start and we look forward to hiking with TTA, especially East Tennessee chapter, often.<br />
<br />
That’s it for today. Thanks for tagging along.<br />
Gene and Judihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18174560734474569999noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7250173008611568687.post-14584515963266287062012-09-12T17:48:00.002-05:002012-09-12T17:48:39.220-05:00Jakes Creek Trail<br />
Our hike up Jakes Creek Trail began near the Elkmont Campground in Great Smoky Mountain National Park. During the time before the establishment of the National Park, there were settlements in this valley as far back as the early 1800s. The logging companies had moved in by the early 1900s. After the logging companies had done as much damage as they could, the area was again claimed by settlers. A number of vacation homes are located in the vicinity of the parking lot and trailhead, but that a subject for a later post. Today is all about our hike.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMaEir6ldatSO2t6KfIpHppD7NyQaTjyAKbS700FWIRHGSwjroevyRm9mu2cC79g8GBbuKBWJRiDLd6cRaOLc4Xbn69IdAXYZCX2lX1bIvp94ny7g4CC8zU4Z1IR_qZB1l_SixQ1RppTs/s1600/IMG_9923.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMaEir6ldatSO2t6KfIpHppD7NyQaTjyAKbS700FWIRHGSwjroevyRm9mu2cC79g8GBbuKBWJRiDLd6cRaOLc4Xbn69IdAXYZCX2lX1bIvp94ny7g4CC8zU4Z1IR_qZB1l_SixQ1RppTs/s400/IMG_9923.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
We have not hiked this trail in several years so were very surprised to find a large new parking lot. Actually, there are two parking lots and there is a new restroom facility in the lower lot. All of that is the good news. The bad news is that this parking lot is about four-tenths of a mile from the trailhead. Oh well, such is progress. I’m grateful for the restroom.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_4UbzyQeUXdXa_Cu3vXhtj0bksrVIQdCj9qGw-FxX4bjx-jqV2OHlAe-p2OVtqzFzK6u-pk_taBmKIvd80yDV3t13nd7mLXKubWUr9HMQQXm9xsVRvMKeWpZ96FearLvQLCbcLIcUs8Y/s1600/IMG_9926.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_4UbzyQeUXdXa_Cu3vXhtj0bksrVIQdCj9qGw-FxX4bjx-jqV2OHlAe-p2OVtqzFzK6u-pk_taBmKIvd80yDV3t13nd7mLXKubWUr9HMQQXm9xsVRvMKeWpZ96FearLvQLCbcLIcUs8Y/s400/IMG_9926.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
We began our hike by skirting around the locked gate which prevented us from accessing the old parking area, and started our climb toward Jakes Gap. The trail is wide, well graded, and graveled following first the old Jakes Creek Road then the track of the old logging railroad up Jakes Creek. The trail is gravel for about the first mile and a half before becoming the usual dirt path which we prefer. The trail climbs steadily (but never very steeply) for 1800 feet over its length of 3.7 miles. It is a pleasant walk through hardwoods, rhododendron, and magnolia. We had one stream crossing on a footbridge and a couple of easy rock hops.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaygW8KYoF8QlFeBNnnQwS0AQ4lgM7rn0BwNX3OQKad3-tEw3gWpRoQRpheWAhMCEJfBmXHqrqk04TuYLYP5H3-gg1J8e0dbrsawprBy_N-oDZnmbN2L2LzkRSIqPiERa-31wMBmQRd5Q/s1600/Jakes+Creek+Trail.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaygW8KYoF8QlFeBNnnQwS0AQ4lgM7rn0BwNX3OQKad3-tEw3gWpRoQRpheWAhMCEJfBmXHqrqk04TuYLYP5H3-gg1J8e0dbrsawprBy_N-oDZnmbN2L2LzkRSIqPiERa-31wMBmQRd5Q/s400/Jakes+Creek+Trail.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
At the three mile mark we came to backcountry campsite 27. There is a huge boulder here and a very inviting place for a break. The guidebook indicates this campsite will accommodate 8 tents and the map says 12 plus horses. We spent a little time looking around. To us it didn’t look large enough for 8 much less 12 and we didn’t see a hitching post for horses. Perhaps we didn’t look carefully enough.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj50sGV9g0g-nd7rXFmA-jjmEPrbnfyGcOKEKfkFKHAhyphenhyphenUUqcRTmN4hoE7ypl_4xOz_7nl3GFRnqOI4KyFNYnX7XO0LM0SAK8aMD_e8OGEGDSVgLY9BvNQ4tTtZ3jJQtLNPgUbcz2EBkLc/s1600/Break+at+campsite+27.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj50sGV9g0g-nd7rXFmA-jjmEPrbnfyGcOKEKfkFKHAhyphenhyphenUUqcRTmN4hoE7ypl_4xOz_7nl3GFRnqOI4KyFNYnX7XO0LM0SAK8aMD_e8OGEGDSVgLY9BvNQ4tTtZ3jJQtLNPgUbcz2EBkLc/s400/Break+at+campsite+27.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
After our short break we continued the last seven-tenths of a mile to the top at Jakes Gap. Jakes Gap is the intersection for three trails. Entering the gap from Jakes Creek Trail we could go left up Miry Ridge Trail 5 more miles to the Appalachian Trail or we could go straight and head down Panther Creek Trail to Middle Prong and the Tremont area. The Panther Creek option would have been a nice 8.5 mile hike if we’d run a shuttle and left a car at the Middle Prong trailhead. Something to consider for another day. What we actually did when we got to Jakes Gap was pull up a log and had lunch.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyquYymFBswQqhdLELYLYoVOHa_Lksyme2lnHUQpFlfSE_fZLnz1ajZBOH7qHLCM2JFxT8wXCx4XaK2VAjhfILG9-87b0c_Hz5gNKOKNKcqO3upeL_all1tYF4bgKWR9bsfnFO233yVJc/s1600/Jakes+Gap.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyquYymFBswQqhdLELYLYoVOHa_Lksyme2lnHUQpFlfSE_fZLnz1ajZBOH7qHLCM2JFxT8wXCx4XaK2VAjhfILG9-87b0c_Hz5gNKOKNKcqO3upeL_all1tYF4bgKWR9bsfnFO233yVJc/s400/Jakes+Gap.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
We retraced our steps to return to the car with a short side trip. On our way up the mountain, I had noticed a side trail leading off to the right of the main trail. Sharon was with us and she knew all about where that side trail led. Apparently, very well hidden across the creek and back in the trees is the Avent Cabin, one of the best preserved and one of the oldest cabins in the Park.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3Ae8etI6J6w62zCP2AHjACwSq5Ghy1VpP9mkKhf9XWU-9v8PZodPFkyNwUfpoKtEwxKAmnTTk3KPBheUNQxaT0V1V2q4IiX1vMjxdTE-u-zga6Ouxct01vt3RVMPhMPRb7nt2MoSd6Yk/s1600/IMG_9918.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3Ae8etI6J6w62zCP2AHjACwSq5Ghy1VpP9mkKhf9XWU-9v8PZodPFkyNwUfpoKtEwxKAmnTTk3KPBheUNQxaT0V1V2q4IiX1vMjxdTE-u-zga6Ouxct01vt3RVMPhMPRb7nt2MoSd6Yk/s400/IMG_9918.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
The trail to the Avent Cabin is not on any map that we’ve ever seen and it is not mentioned in the guidebook we use. The trail to this little well-kept secret is maintained and even has a footbridge across the creek. Avent Cabin was originally built around the mid-1800s and was the home of Humphrey Ownby and remained in the Ownby family until 1918 when it was sold to Frank and Mayna Avent which they used as a summer cottage. Mayna is an accomplished artist and she used this small cabin as her summer studio. Sharon found this <a href="http://www.chasingcarolina.com/2011/03/avent-cabin-hike/">blog post about the cabin</a>. Take a look if you’re interested. It has a much more complete story of Mayna Avent and some wonderful photos taken inside the cabin.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1pvCrlMBzzhZxFONcdwDYjHFkG2ZxaQGkQrsOi9IwIrAGjXQhDdK81b78no1ltPWaML9JASdJFMXg7AXylI1UL0tG0v-1VaKhoHOG4xR_-3v42-KDUjGomX-z0mVc-5jC_2DIIhmHXHQ/s1600/Avent+Cabin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1pvCrlMBzzhZxFONcdwDYjHFkG2ZxaQGkQrsOi9IwIrAGjXQhDdK81b78no1ltPWaML9JASdJFMXg7AXylI1UL0tG0v-1VaKhoHOG4xR_-3v42-KDUjGomX-z0mVc-5jC_2DIIhmHXHQ/s400/Avent+Cabin.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
After exploring the cabin and the area surrounding it, we returned to the main trail and continued our trek downhill to the car. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRMWM-IzxFUWHcm9uWd4P7xsAwQlM4UD-sOLHQvT-InbjpyRtwUnivGxzLoyAEIqId27wrlHNe_evbVEyYIXVuXQaGO3axkuZ_0c-k4-SuslLBjoZ2YDm8LWm3ad9AoxqpcB_H2r3GRbA/s1600/IMG_9933.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRMWM-IzxFUWHcm9uWd4P7xsAwQlM4UD-sOLHQvT-InbjpyRtwUnivGxzLoyAEIqId27wrlHNe_evbVEyYIXVuXQaGO3axkuZ_0c-k4-SuslLBjoZ2YDm8LWm3ad9AoxqpcB_H2r3GRbA/s400/IMG_9933.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
This was a wonderful hike. Our weather was perfect with almost a fall like feel in the air with temperatures near 50 when we started. The hike was pleasant and having Sharon along was great. The side trip to Avent Cabin, a place we didn’t even know existed, was icing on the cake and if Sharon hadn’t been along to tell us what was down that path we would have missed it all together. Thanks, Sharon.<br />
<br />
That’s all for now. Thanks for tagging along.<br />
Gene and Judihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18174560734474569999noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7250173008611568687.post-54280278259968518142012-09-09T15:13:00.000-05:002012-09-09T15:28:39.943-05:00A Round On The Maryville Greenway<br />
Some days there seems to be more to do than we can get done, certainly more than we can get done and also got for a hike. But on those days we still want to get a little exercise so we choose the Maryville Greenway. <br />
<br />
The Greenway is roughly a 4 mile paved path which winds its way around the city, in and out of several parks and neighborhoods. There are several parking areas along the length of the Greenway, making access convenient from all areas of town. The closest parking area to our home is less than 2 miles away. That’s a big advantage on those busy days when we’re out just for the exercise.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifTEEIjsbEo7XG1TEpI80h_n8uxLyeBjTxdNSDw20gwv_33MPeKjqUi6MuDB89vofwejOkhJbyWtjQqFXbF8ZsAfYidHL9BY0bW9XQiDgfZoIL70J4UNj-6t4okG9e853fk-Fj86ZUnnc/s1600/IMG_9906.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifTEEIjsbEo7XG1TEpI80h_n8uxLyeBjTxdNSDw20gwv_33MPeKjqUi6MuDB89vofwejOkhJbyWtjQqFXbF8ZsAfYidHL9BY0bW9XQiDgfZoIL70J4UNj-6t4okG9e853fk-Fj86ZUnnc/s400/IMG_9906.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
We usually start our walk at one of the local parks. I like doing that because the parking lots are large and there is also a restroom--a handy thing both at the beginning and at the end of a walk. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg83p8bcDE5WyMS0eqsfIHoWVPichns1uZVS48jI_St9bp9nUxdUe3rRxHOf_DB6cR4zfKSsImY-Uo9knNGZQ_jKo6IZifepLW73VxdduHJXaJA-NOc8szUBNhlBCAFBXouUB_904sb_VE/s1600/ZZ.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg83p8bcDE5WyMS0eqsfIHoWVPichns1uZVS48jI_St9bp9nUxdUe3rRxHOf_DB6cR4zfKSsImY-Uo9knNGZQ_jKo6IZifepLW73VxdduHJXaJA-NOc8szUBNhlBCAFBXouUB_904sb_VE/s400/ZZ.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
For our most recent walk, we started at Sandy Springs Park and walked to the end of the Greenway at Foothills School. That section was one and a quarter miles each way. After we got back to Sandy Springs Park we were not quite ready to stop so walked another mile in the opposite direction then back for a total of 4.5 miles.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmExec30J8GSoIcTuWEji2tWVZhSR4LOv-G556mLP383WdVIAfcYYsceEEASbstOJl2QFfOxX8zcBCArb6DU4c9Xhav0Q1LPbmxs42KvkV9r8pNpAPo0-ZQZpxPFst39ejp747XW1R84I/s1600/IMG_9905.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmExec30J8GSoIcTuWEji2tWVZhSR4LOv-G556mLP383WdVIAfcYYsceEEASbstOJl2QFfOxX8zcBCArb6DU4c9Xhav0Q1LPbmxs42KvkV9r8pNpAPo0-ZQZpxPFst39ejp747XW1R84I/s400/IMG_9905.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Not a mountain view, but nice nevertheless.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The Greenway makes a couple small circles in various places and even a figure eight at the Greenbelt Park in downtown Maryville, but it is basically a linear trail. Being new to town, we usually do an out and back route, but that’s not necessary. Most of the major streets around town have sidewalks making many options for loop routes. <br />
<br />
Then there is the Greenway for the city of Alcoa. Their Greenway joins Maryville so I guess the proper name would be Maryville-Alcoa Greenway. There are 5 miles of trail in Alcoa, with additional miles planned. We have many choices for exercise walks on busy chore days.<br />
<br />
That’s all for now. Thanks for tagging along.<br />
Gene and Judihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18174560734474569999noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7250173008611568687.post-48585726197231645902012-09-07T14:14:00.000-05:002012-09-07T14:14:15.749-05:00Turkeypen Ridge Trail<br />
After a weekend of consuming an abundance of food and drink at the family reunion, we were more than ready for a day on the trail. It always feels so good to breath fresh air, stretch our legs, work those muscles, and sweat out some of those impurities we’ve dumped into our bodies.<br />
<br />
For our hike, we chose Turkeypen Ridge Trail. We put it with a few others to make a 9-mile, relatively easy loop--just what we needed after almost a week off the trail. Another plus for Turkeypen Ridge is the trailhead is close. We wanted to hike, not spend too much time in the car.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIT90QQGMn-y0QA1CLXYjdJh2bze8fsCnfC0v0ApO_M8dVnQ_GG7hOxb_HlgUlW_fYiObXul5fgOx_jDUoiEdAh3VUyNqjJQ8R6gbDN4mQ31BnO55dzGlut8Kl8uKd-b3UzAEJvxeCPAk/s1600/IMG_9892.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIT90QQGMn-y0QA1CLXYjdJh2bze8fsCnfC0v0ApO_M8dVnQ_GG7hOxb_HlgUlW_fYiObXul5fgOx_jDUoiEdAh3VUyNqjJQ8R6gbDN4mQ31BnO55dzGlut8Kl8uKd-b3UzAEJvxeCPAk/s400/IMG_9892.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hearts a burstin'</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Turkeypen Ridge trail is 3.6 miles in length, gently rolling along and only gaining a couple hundred feet regardless of which direction you hike. After gaining the ridge line from either end, the trail basically follows the ridge, weaving in and out of one cove after another, then drops down into either Dorsey Gap on Schoolhouse Gap Trail or Big Spring Cove at Laurel Creek Road.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDuZsCCbkyYCb-FG8Z8LVcAVkjvm0bu3gbPvus_HlvPaolIWHe5up5th270d2Sk1ZVpeIAKd0YK9dNdOGHmulw3HU9zGbm59O4oL8OjzLl7tnsFho_YRN6DSPssrgxjK9uxDjI8fsDN6w/s1600/IMG_9894.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDuZsCCbkyYCb-FG8Z8LVcAVkjvm0bu3gbPvus_HlvPaolIWHe5up5th270d2Sk1ZVpeIAKd0YK9dNdOGHmulw3HU9zGbm59O4oL8OjzLl7tnsFho_YRN6DSPssrgxjK9uxDjI8fsDN6w/s400/IMG_9894.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
For our hike, we parked at the trailhead on Laurel Creek Road at Big Spring Cove. This is the same parking lot used for Finley Cane Trail and Lead Cove Trail. There are parking pull-outs on both sides of Laurel Creek Road, but because there are three trailheads here, finding a spot can sometimes be difficult. Our plan was to begin our hike with the 3.6 miles of Turkeypen Ridge Trail, then hike down 1.1 miles of Schoolhouse Gap Trail, connect with Bote Mountain Trail on the other side of Laurel Creek Road, hike up Bote Mountain Trail to Finley Cane trail which would bring us back to our car making a total hiking distance of 9 miles. It would have been possible to do this same loop by parking at Schoolhouse Gap trailhead. For a longer, more strenuous hike, Lead Cove Trail could be used instead of Finley Cane.<br />
<br />
The first leg of our hike, Turkeypen Ridge Trail, was a very pleasant walk through low elevation hardwood forest and rhododendron. There are a couple of small stream crossings within the first half mile, but nothing to worry about. They were very shallow and narrow--easily crossed. The hike begins in the wide, flat area of Big Spring Cove. There are few flat areas in the Smokies. Before the Park was established, all these areas were farms. We saw several rock piles--evidence the land had been cleared for crops.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKZW9VIvkbWASor3FCZazyU-wYbDU2b9Z3S3Jn-n0MW53Ub3eSk_h_PUHtksTAdIn-U3uyW2xvB3PGUrD2JM_pocnrWIY_EQ5IBlHFGf9aN-Q1hHGBQ_z72YhgqIrU_z8pOuRCXYZv970/s1600/IMG_9898.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKZW9VIvkbWASor3FCZazyU-wYbDU2b9Z3S3Jn-n0MW53Ub3eSk_h_PUHtksTAdIn-U3uyW2xvB3PGUrD2JM_pocnrWIY_EQ5IBlHFGf9aN-Q1hHGBQ_z72YhgqIrU_z8pOuRCXYZv970/s400/IMG_9898.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">There are still a few folks out enjoying the Park</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
We descended from the ridge to the junction with Schoolhouse Gap Trail. This trail is an old roadbed--wide and well graded. It’s an easy 1.1 mile walk, partly along Spence Branch to the large parking lot on Laurel Creek Road. We found a large rock here which made a great place for lunch. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLeKWlg9osebfMOe16s0rEbDo_8qracypLuNkTBeXb63XIkm6ogkXiBNMvOpI_hDtnDuJVOp898RNWUBzAzRK339yg7rQzggu0EaoDxb7dp1DRRcZWiwnPxkdPoSOA5fRItPW4UMgIYiw/s1600/IMG_9901.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLeKWlg9osebfMOe16s0rEbDo_8qracypLuNkTBeXb63XIkm6ogkXiBNMvOpI_hDtnDuJVOp898RNWUBzAzRK339yg7rQzggu0EaoDxb7dp1DRRcZWiwnPxkdPoSOA5fRItPW4UMgIYiw/s400/IMG_9901.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lower section of Bote Mountain Trail</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
For the last half of our hike we headed across Laurel Creek Road to the Bote Mountain trailhead. This is the lower end of Bote Mountain Trail. From here it heads uphill for 7 miles, gaining 3500 feet, to intersect with the Appalachian Trail. That’s a pretty steep climb. Luckily, we were only going to the junction with Finley Cane Trail, a mere 1.5 miles away. Also, lucky for us, the trail rises very gently in this first mile. Bote Mountain Trail is actually a continuation of the same old road as Schoolhouse Gap Trail follows. Like Schoolhouse Gap Trail, Bote Mountain Trail is wide and well graded in this section. It is a very pleasant walk through rhododendron. This would be a beautiful walk in early summer.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEkLQf8re_umIMsd3gqbemUC8oOucJtzvuc4Uve9WezjrfbRsi-ZiXqjY6SCQ-3kHUYX2D8OJuyUqyDGoKOmfcOY1H4AuFUTRInoUgZmrviIdUpoy3VNsrDgJdxwKHf95_qqZAKbaeM7g/s1600/IMG_9904.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEkLQf8re_umIMsd3gqbemUC8oOucJtzvuc4Uve9WezjrfbRsi-ZiXqjY6SCQ-3kHUYX2D8OJuyUqyDGoKOmfcOY1H4AuFUTRInoUgZmrviIdUpoy3VNsrDgJdxwKHf95_qqZAKbaeM7g/s400/IMG_9904.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I need to get a fungus book. Wish I knew the name of this.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We took a short break when we reached the junction with Finley Cane Trail before starting the last leg of our journey. This is the same Finley Cane we hiked a few weeks ago, so it is very familiar to us. This is a very easy, almost flat trail from Bote Mountain for a little over a mile, then very gently downhill, descending a couple hundred feet over the last 1.5 miles to our car.<br />
<br />
We had a very nice walk; just what we needed. <br />
<br />
We could definitely tell summer is over--the crowds are gone. We saw only one other family on the trail even though there were several cars in the parking lots.<br />
<br />
That’s all for today. Thanks for tagging along.<br />
Gene and Judihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18174560734474569999noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7250173008611568687.post-35318908313513017682012-09-04T13:56:00.000-05:002012-09-04T13:56:28.704-05:00Family Reunion<br />
We are back home today after a long weekend with family. Like most families these days, ours is scattered about the country. Every few years we try to round everybody up for a long weekend together. Because of busy schedules I don’t think there has ever been a reunion when everybody was there, but we gather up as many as can come and always have a great time.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ0GfFKysL_kPLAP__c4GONDvk6S31JFX4YYiNq8OzKHcHbMNJR1h9O_Gqr4rKU4ZcMAOVMIc8MaJQFJ4Zt9AE7-_HAQJwVZjmVLcxPRO138FBnxfMvoOFkiZioRzBBwkjiCkqP0sUJgU/s1600/IMG_9857.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ0GfFKysL_kPLAP__c4GONDvk6S31JFX4YYiNq8OzKHcHbMNJR1h9O_Gqr4rKU4ZcMAOVMIc8MaJQFJ4Zt9AE7-_HAQJwVZjmVLcxPRO138FBnxfMvoOFkiZioRzBBwkjiCkqP0sUJgU/s400/IMG_9857.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Edd, Vera, Betty, Carl</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
What we are calling family are the direct descendants of Sam and Elizabeth Lancaster. They had seven children in all; two of whom died in early childhood. Four of their children are still living. Two are past 80; one is getting fairly close to 90. Twenty-one people were at the reunion this weekend. Four generations were represented. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzSQHQXT70KvTnkrIuye-bwn0bEWRu8-3slOFYYBY3mtKE-U6wNh731LwGqRAyxA4XusfrwqJkCZ-P6gaAGpqy_VvBhkKZWGxbaZ-XgWdlV6I8bRFPsFOKG5b_G3BktPCo1caC2hTwnjo/s1600/IMG_9848.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzSQHQXT70KvTnkrIuye-bwn0bEWRu8-3slOFYYBY3mtKE-U6wNh731LwGqRAyxA4XusfrwqJkCZ-P6gaAGpqy_VvBhkKZWGxbaZ-XgWdlV6I8bRFPsFOKG5b_G3BktPCo1caC2hTwnjo/s400/IMG_9848.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Anytime there is a family gathering, Edd likes to take charge. He does a good job so we generally let him say whatever needs to be said. Taking charge seems to be a family trait so we’re a group not easily led. He has his work cut out for him on these occasions.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjow8IiBtwCsMbNhikyhS-il0p4o3h7ctualJAB8eK4cRSBnDlLH7sLgrOEiFDfQ0uG-Ushz50c7a8hSDxe2EMIZSoPOnMe4aOEJd1FndkzPWCrLYDr49vPA24HLbbyxThvxyC1TRJnVmM/s1600/IMG_9855.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjow8IiBtwCsMbNhikyhS-il0p4o3h7ctualJAB8eK4cRSBnDlLH7sLgrOEiFDfQ0uG-Ushz50c7a8hSDxe2EMIZSoPOnMe4aOEJd1FndkzPWCrLYDr49vPA24HLbbyxThvxyC1TRJnVmM/s400/IMG_9855.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We let the oldest go first.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I don’t recall a single family gathering that didn’t involve food at some point. We gathered around the table as a large group both Saturday and Sunday evenings. The meals are primarily potluck with everyone bringing their favorite dish. We started off Saturday’s meal with Whitt’s BBQ and country ham with the cooks of the family (and we have some very good cooks) supplying the side dishes and desserts. There’s always way more than we can consume in one meal, though we gave it our best shot. For Sunday night we got some fried and baked chicken, and added a fresh garden salad to go with all the leftovers from Saturday. <br />
<br />
Besides eating too much, we had a wonderful weekend playing, laughing, and visiting with family members we don’t often see. It was great fun.<br />
<br />
That’s all I have for today. Thanks for tagging along.<br />
Gene and Judihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18174560734474569999noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7250173008611568687.post-81211584810343703212012-09-02T05:49:00.000-05:002012-09-02T05:49:38.900-05:00On Top of Tennessee<br />
Clingman’s Dome at 6,643 feet, is the highest point in Tennessee. It is only a few inches shorter than North Carolina’s Mount Mitchell (6,684 ft) which is the highest point east of the Mississippi River. As you might imagine, there are some spectacular views from the top of Clingman’s Dome, but those views are hard to catch. We’ve been waiting all summer for a good view day.<br />
<br />
With temperatures once again near 90 degrees, we decided to head for the top for our hike on Monday. We had a great weather forecast of clear skies all day, so we were hoping for that illusive view. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHE7RG6BZFAGKydhAI4wO4A97_JhLoDFLu5Tum2QEaMTJUB74Q4X1_xlc5XVMYsVnMhHBwabvbXbdf7tjfRBMoQTkA5SEYP0Yr8336gDD4F6j4EkNQfWDUMQGMPPw_Xw4WoBHVh2s-FNM/s1600/IMG_9825.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHE7RG6BZFAGKydhAI4wO4A97_JhLoDFLu5Tum2QEaMTJUB74Q4X1_xlc5XVMYsVnMhHBwabvbXbdf7tjfRBMoQTkA5SEYP0Yr8336gDD4F6j4EkNQfWDUMQGMPPw_Xw4WoBHVh2s-FNM/s400/IMG_9825.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
We arrived in the large Clingman’s Dome parking lot about 9:30. The busy tourist season is waning and there were very few cars in the lot. Garnett was hiking with us again and we had worked out a plan whereby the three of us would hike from Clingman’s Dome northbound on the Appalachian Trail to Sugarland Mountain Trail. At that point, Gene would hike back to Clingman’s Dome and Garnett and I would continue north to Newfound Gap Road where Gene would pick us up. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3ugJE2D921HGUMcWP8w3lTpjIHvWqxz_n3qFoGT1mmwRgRBulBTyFo7B-C5q-m-IsaHe6zWs88tOeLfVILlGOXrnB3QZNHHVgT41G-G7Mx1VUAMyf3-xHgfzk_XoCyO8iqOhcbRMm6pM/s1600/IMG_9827.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3ugJE2D921HGUMcWP8w3lTpjIHvWqxz_n3qFoGT1mmwRgRBulBTyFo7B-C5q-m-IsaHe6zWs88tOeLfVILlGOXrnB3QZNHHVgT41G-G7Mx1VUAMyf3-xHgfzk_XoCyO8iqOhcbRMm6pM/s400/IMG_9827.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Of course, the parking lot is not at the top of Clingman’s Dome. There is a half mile paved trail which leads to the top and the observation tower. Even though this is a short distance, this half mile is always difficult for me. Maybe it’s because we just get out of the car and start uphill. It’s a pretty steep climb, too, gaining 300 feet from the parking lot to the observation tower.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeJb9cKOAlVQ638pS_QM4LQXmY4xhGqvIPZy7-q7wUbLOSJqf4Uy8rg-YLPormcX57x69cArkrkfTJwuD1xHfA5nA7g29JkFaaFPgU-aQ1RPEgz5KewVNq_pZ0nBAFremuWpbkURuAp_c/s1600/IMG_9828.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeJb9cKOAlVQ638pS_QM4LQXmY4xhGqvIPZy7-q7wUbLOSJqf4Uy8rg-YLPormcX57x69cArkrkfTJwuD1xHfA5nA7g29JkFaaFPgU-aQ1RPEgz5KewVNq_pZ0nBAFremuWpbkURuAp_c/s400/IMG_9828.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
We had great views when we got out of the car, but by the time we climbed to the top of the observation tower, the clouds had moved in. Still, not bad though.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUYegxNrCpMMuTkJ97u7y59SInBwwt8oBMv0R3SiuSspR4BddnnaHDNMHvFHdtWHhHInV9LV7NcA-TmyWi_cbaiu6n4F8p1SraFM3SKVuVj0ox3UJHRDgYIl0uS9A7guhyphenhyphenvRUvy-51Qss/s1600/IMG_9835.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUYegxNrCpMMuTkJ97u7y59SInBwwt8oBMv0R3SiuSspR4BddnnaHDNMHvFHdtWHhHInV9LV7NcA-TmyWi_cbaiu6n4F8p1SraFM3SKVuVj0ox3UJHRDgYIl0uS9A7guhyphenhyphenvRUvy-51Qss/s400/IMG_9835.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
From the tower, we headed north on the AT. Naturally, since Clingman’s Dome is the highest point in the state, we started out going downhill. Basically, the AT follows the ridge line through the Smokies and generally straddles the North Carolina-Tennessee border. This section of trail is in the high elevation spruce-fir forest which I love. <br />
<br />
This is a well maintained trail, but it’s not the easiest walk in the park. This section is steep in spots, very rocky with lots of roots and a few wet spots. It’s not all downhill, either. First comes Mount Love which is hardly noticable. Actually, its a welcome relief to the steep descent. Then comes Mt Collins where we gained about 500 feet before dropping back down to the gap. All that being said it is still one of our favorite hikes in the Smokies.<br />
<br />
We were in high spirits, but hungry as we came to the junction with Sugarland Mountain Trail. This was the turn-around point of our hike and a good spot for lunch. I’d been thinking about that climb back up Mt Collins and then up to Clingmans Dome. It seemed like a good idea for Garnett and I to continue north (generally downhill) to Newfound Gap and let Gene do the climbing back up to the top, retrieve the car, and pick us girls up down the hill. The milage was about the same--Gene had 4 miles back to the car and Garnett and I had 4.5 miles to the Gap. Everyone was agreeable to that, even Gene.<br />
<br />
Garnett and I had a great hike down to Newfound Gap even though there were a few short uphill sections. Our walk continued through the spruce-fir forest. We took one break at Indian Gap. The Trail comes out to a large parking lot on Clingmans Dome Road at this point and we found a grass spot to rest at the edge of the curb. From here, we had only 1.7 easy miles to go. At the Gap we again threw our packs down and stretched out on a grassy spot to wait for Gene.<br />
<br />
It turned out to be a great hike with the last half being new trail for Garnett. Glad we were able to help her color some map.<br />
<br />
That’s it for today. Thanks for tagging along.<br />
Gene and Judihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18174560734474569999noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7250173008611568687.post-39471984608479856202012-08-30T12:19:00.001-05:002012-08-30T12:19:20.671-05:00Officially Old<br />
Certainly, I’m not ready to admit being old, but Gene on the other hand....<br />
<br />
Jack, Ansley, and Kayley came this past weekend to help “Big Dad” celebrate his 62nd birthday. Gene has been counting the months and the days for this birthday--the one on which he was finally eligible to purchase the senior edition of the America the Beautiful pass from the National Park Service. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO1MiM627hMtN5V2ipUeEJH57nSEdQueBynYQdTur-2ZOqEJSI2wGaKvEsSwE10aDBUfyecaqVsSg1EoajKKADrUut5SimMoZsD7iHG8BW-0a_PsVi-3MVvy7jRf1YZDOQ9cbi__U9QIM/s1600/officially+old.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO1MiM627hMtN5V2ipUeEJH57nSEdQueBynYQdTur-2ZOqEJSI2wGaKvEsSwE10aDBUfyecaqVsSg1EoajKKADrUut5SimMoZsD7iHG8BW-0a_PsVi-3MVvy7jRf1YZDOQ9cbi__U9QIM/s400/officially+old.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
We’ve been buying the American the Beautiful pass for many years, originally for $50/year and more recently for $80/year. Now, with the senior rate it is only $10 and is good for the rest of his life. What’s so special about this pass? It allows the cardholder entrance to the National Parks and National Forest facilities for free. That includes parking at trailheads in National Forests where a fee is charged. Campground fees are reduced to half price. We use these areas so often it was a good deal even at $80/year without the additional reduction of camping fees. $10 is fantastic. We’re jumping for joy.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz_T0vun44xrADLqzZo80ocw0y0kvB1sG6yVO7MGmDdRR07nwxPFh2zgnvFgVGNt5W_rJ2v6U0WJzET0zOqpGGVXYHzbP9hug1932Yiu5yufQEJGqxkPHvH5FuTNzWAxRSdzOSQ6VCHFk/s1600/cookies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="332" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz_T0vun44xrADLqzZo80ocw0y0kvB1sG6yVO7MGmDdRR07nwxPFh2zgnvFgVGNt5W_rJ2v6U0WJzET0zOqpGGVXYHzbP9hug1932Yiu5yufQEJGqxkPHvH5FuTNzWAxRSdzOSQ6VCHFk/s400/cookies.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
We had a great weekend with Jack, Ansley, and Kayley. It’s hard work to get ready for such a big birthday and Nana needed plenty of help from Kayley. We made cookies and decorated cupcakes. There were birthday cards to make and little messes to clean up.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUDGMGcq2SJL_NLTbAc4KJe1N_Guqufx-fUMkQL81hohkVu2XK0yFNigFsPx-o7jiLwxYgEIkbeI1l5bDMohtns-_aqxXyNGkVraKKV5Kg359kIKFzQhIFM1It1cCWWPpB5VBMY2Zo2NY/s1600/cupcakes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUDGMGcq2SJL_NLTbAc4KJe1N_Guqufx-fUMkQL81hohkVu2XK0yFNigFsPx-o7jiLwxYgEIkbeI1l5bDMohtns-_aqxXyNGkVraKKV5Kg359kIKFzQhIFM1It1cCWWPpB5VBMY2Zo2NY/s400/cupcakes.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx2RY5W7tto1ucykviigt90NHoz2bEp9Z28ohvMr0w-2FuVB0Swko5htfr-gEJi2RUpJjM2jL7S2idakKfS5G-hQyZV4NOh7H3TEAFfbhEAQNTVm0Tgy7vVHkmPoLwN_pWfnkNssqD-ns/s1600/blowing+out+candles.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx2RY5W7tto1ucykviigt90NHoz2bEp9Z28ohvMr0w-2FuVB0Swko5htfr-gEJi2RUpJjM2jL7S2idakKfS5G-hQyZV4NOh7H3TEAFfbhEAQNTVm0Tgy7vVHkmPoLwN_pWfnkNssqD-ns/s400/blowing+out+candles.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
It wasn’t all work and no play, though. We found time to check out the local playground at one of the parks in Maryville.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1Nq62kpCtQ1mvy0EshG40CFTLWK9_-TRH1Xc7vgZvyUPKRENw5tt2i8yH8uRezh1LTlcJ-b5_T9qgK7Sg5BEusUbG7sauwBGMvDu44NW3M1RSZtD8pFtcAMLbkpSGe9yF4PU-VMoAjQQ/s1600/slide.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1Nq62kpCtQ1mvy0EshG40CFTLWK9_-TRH1Xc7vgZvyUPKRENw5tt2i8yH8uRezh1LTlcJ-b5_T9qgK7Sg5BEusUbG7sauwBGMvDu44NW3M1RSZtD8pFtcAMLbkpSGe9yF4PU-VMoAjQQ/s400/slide.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSWsCjfdmOmLcj_88mVXFJO_Jnvi-7am7Uy-Ejusd5LP36ojcyhmJCEso9mOnGVYhOPP_qvnkBQPgAn9tqhEEBl76cbSzocwDc0dXR-mChzWHy78_DRu3icfpNSNtca6NpWs4XOum3OLM/s1600/swinging.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSWsCjfdmOmLcj_88mVXFJO_Jnvi-7am7Uy-Ejusd5LP36ojcyhmJCEso9mOnGVYhOPP_qvnkBQPgAn9tqhEEBl76cbSzocwDc0dXR-mChzWHy78_DRu3icfpNSNtca6NpWs4XOum3OLM/s400/swinging.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
It was a fun-filled, busy weekend. Nana and Big Dad were moving pretty slowly Sunday afternoon.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz1PP-w1k939jKRKtt82KViAhXIA6DnJCMf75lH4PhanXBsP_2cvLYM0-3dCMrwnvQKoMCjno_rwYhZaSeEU0i9BVNPpP4z03A3s1AZdXVfn9LziT2olRmBIaeaFPL_4Xcs1hg7HMmveI/s1600/dressing+the+doll.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz1PP-w1k939jKRKtt82KViAhXIA6DnJCMf75lH4PhanXBsP_2cvLYM0-3dCMrwnvQKoMCjno_rwYhZaSeEU0i9BVNPpP4z03A3s1AZdXVfn9LziT2olRmBIaeaFPL_4Xcs1hg7HMmveI/s400/dressing+the+doll.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
That’s all for today. Thanks for tagging along.<br />
Gene and Judihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18174560734474569999noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7250173008611568687.post-57960492152030174952012-08-27T19:08:00.001-05:002012-08-27T19:08:06.076-05:00Middle Prong Trail<br />
There are so many trails in Great Smoky Mountain National Park that it would be possible to hike a different trail each week for over 2 years. Of course, some trails are better than others and there are several that are worth doing over and over. Every time we hike a trail, we have a whole new experience. The weather may be different--the mountain may be shrouded in fog or bathed in sunlight; the leaves may be green or the ablaze with color. The different seasons also offer a whole new perspective to the trail. Sometimes we find something we never knew existed on a trail we’ve hiked many times. That’s what happened on our last hike up Middle Prong Trail.<br />
<br />
Middle Prong has proven to be an exciting trail to hike this summer. We last did this trail the last week in June. On that hike we only went up as far as the junction with Panther Creek Trail, but found there the crew counting the brook trout. That was exciting and this week we found a waterfall we hadn’t previously known was on this trail.<br />
<br />
Middle Prong Trail begins at the end of the gravel portion of Tremont Road. This three mile section of gravel road from Tremont Institute to the Middle Prong trailhead is closed in winter. This is another one of those trails we wanted to hike again before the road is closed. The parking area at the trailhead is large enough for several cars and the road ends in a loop for the benefit of those towing horse trailers.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA4AitS6eUtF9wt_R8XCa3TyINYUKBdVcMqQV-sy-0ubAdwIo0rPKH2jI4fF1s-AT0hJxEf7GhisxekJZ11o9aHbSRgm4vdocJbKegWRnScXvSvD9J_pCtU4nBXjI7hOFs17ZcWEB3mu0/s1600/CCC+camp+remains.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA4AitS6eUtF9wt_R8XCa3TyINYUKBdVcMqQV-sy-0ubAdwIo0rPKH2jI4fF1s-AT0hJxEf7GhisxekJZ11o9aHbSRgm4vdocJbKegWRnScXvSvD9J_pCtU4nBXjI7hOFs17ZcWEB3mu0/s400/CCC+camp+remains.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Remains of an old homestead or a CCC camp.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
As we pulled into the parking area we noticed a large group of hikers. There are several Wednesday hiking clubs in the area and we’ve been wanting to join one of these groups. Gene jumped out of the car and introduced himself. As it turned out they were part of the <a href="http://www.smhclub.org/">Smoky Mountains Hiking Club</a>, a club we already belong to. Smoky Mountains Hiking Club has a reputation of hiking fast, faster than we want to go. They also like to hike the old trails which are no longer maintained. We’re not into bushwhacking, either. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr5NJ3xGvWrg-I-Nk7FDI3HqCpZDk0Kuyb8D_pZvmWgM8fuEHMI4c_fXTRg1sVayu2T-7DLF1K_uq8uSRWAPmsqNEkNFpJh_0_0XYgzpEOSkzOjKk7oxzDi0QBWYqMIPdO0oO4A9ci7pY/s1600/Cardinal+Flower.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr5NJ3xGvWrg-I-Nk7FDI3HqCpZDk0Kuyb8D_pZvmWgM8fuEHMI4c_fXTRg1sVayu2T-7DLF1K_uq8uSRWAPmsqNEkNFpJh_0_0XYgzpEOSkzOjKk7oxzDi0QBWYqMIPdO0oO4A9ci7pY/s400/Cardinal+Flower.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cardinal Flower</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
While Gene was talking with a couple members of the group, he learned they were headed up Middle Prong to an old trail which leads to Indian Flats waterfall. They invited us to come along, but we didn’t want to race up the trail then have to bushwhack to some obscure falls. We let them go on about their business and we went about ours.<br />
<br />
<br />
Middle Prong Trail is just over four miles in length and an easy four miles it is. The trail follows an old logging road and rises gently just over a 1000 feet over the course of its entire length. Lynn Camp Prong tumbles and cascades over boulders just below the trail on the left as you head uphill. There is the occasional swimming hole for the more adventuresome on a hot summer day. The water in these mountain streams is always too cold for me.<br />
<br />
After 2.8 miles we stopped at the Panther Creek Trail junction for a short break. Middle Prong Trail beyond this junction becomes a little steeper, but hardly noticeable. The trail gains its elevation by way of long switchbacks. At the curve of one of these switchbacks we noticed a distinct trail leading off to the right. From the description Gene got from the hikers in the parking lot, we assumed this to be the trail to the waterfalls. We could definitely hear the sound of water and, ever so faintly, voices. <br />
<br />
We continued on up Middle Prong Trail and, after the next switchback, came to the junction with Lynn Camp Prong Trail and Greenbrier Ridge Trail. This marks the end of Middle Prong Trail and a perfect place for our lunch break.<br />
<br />
From this junction the Appalachian Trail and Derrick Knob shelter are 4.2 miles up Greenbrier Ridge Trail. It is possible to take Lynn Camp Prong Trail 3.7 miles over to Miry Ridge Trail and down that trail to connect with Panther Creek Trail making a nice loop for a horse ride.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKBqo57g_ccApKU3GEu_NJQYOyO0yhRM1bPPQYbnVr0lB2rXFfYdTbtdpYbbAN28yyRsvUp0Mr2kGJLP7tcxAcxLDZLNgzP2N-2iyPqDBIHw4wZ4e05KJgrelCe-6T8xC0tiAOB1f48fI/s1600/Indian+Flats+Falls+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKBqo57g_ccApKU3GEu_NJQYOyO0yhRM1bPPQYbnVr0lB2rXFfYdTbtdpYbbAN28yyRsvUp0Mr2kGJLP7tcxAcxLDZLNgzP2N-2iyPqDBIHw4wZ4e05KJgrelCe-6T8xC0tiAOB1f48fI/s400/Indian+Flats+Falls+1.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Indian Flats Falls</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
After our lunch we headed back the way we came. By the time we got back to the switchback to the falls, the Smoky Mountains Hiking Club group were milling around waiting for the last of their hikers to return from the falls. They pointed the way for us and encouraged us to go take a look. They assured us this old trail required no bushwhacking.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhht9_DAVqT-eE0tbk1GgtRL4dbV3ExSdz71_6PTcVjl6XmYMAS3G-X3dqGyYLIsVR6bUT2oj6NRpVfAeACi2EnxzagYiMPDhJ8p4Cyi6_JX-Ro4Iqn24aZ2SOaMtaJlNCjzis4USqM73A/s1600/Indian+Flats+Falls+lower.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhht9_DAVqT-eE0tbk1GgtRL4dbV3ExSdz71_6PTcVjl6XmYMAS3G-X3dqGyYLIsVR6bUT2oj6NRpVfAeACi2EnxzagYiMPDhJ8p4Cyi6_JX-Ro4Iqn24aZ2SOaMtaJlNCjzis4USqM73A/s400/Indian+Flats+Falls+lower.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We could see at least 2 lower sections of the falls, but we<br />didn't try to climb down for a better view.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
They were sure right about that. It was as good a trail as most of the maintained trails in the Smokies. And, it was only about 75 yards to the waterfalls. The area at the falls was a wonderful place for lunch or just hanging out. In fact, Gene spoke to a hiker coming up Middle Prong Trail who was on his way to the falls with his hammock to spend a quiet, relaxing afternoon.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyGFFNV_2WyhmmZwO_0JDSAjnRf1AsnRGxYcSpApaMCW_yQb98qni9ZMKVliDYG21rSiPvtTaJ2nc6xHDJ4hArUmAgc5C-ggDsH4luJTdReTK2J30Hb5jau4lzd10uB607bNdPJu63w8M/s1600/IMG_9814.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyGFFNV_2WyhmmZwO_0JDSAjnRf1AsnRGxYcSpApaMCW_yQb98qni9ZMKVliDYG21rSiPvtTaJ2nc6xHDJ4hArUmAgc5C-ggDsH4luJTdReTK2J30Hb5jau4lzd10uB607bNdPJu63w8M/s400/IMG_9814.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of a couple of cairns in front of the falls</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu6eUHcb3OR45sUhAGQWEbX5reIKN8HdRzGMZea1V1PqEDXnNvyzJ9BGf9E7XyY-cGUg7qFTyv_GjrnhKRIr7pbKxzeIcR4JHsBUTnQAzxh9JzJqWlWS8o1tpuJVHZaatQ9HS_mJrLQA8/s1600/Garnett+adding+to+carin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu6eUHcb3OR45sUhAGQWEbX5reIKN8HdRzGMZea1V1PqEDXnNvyzJ9BGf9E7XyY-cGUg7qFTyv_GjrnhKRIr7pbKxzeIcR4JHsBUTnQAzxh9JzJqWlWS8o1tpuJVHZaatQ9HS_mJrLQA8/s400/Garnett+adding+to+carin.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Garnett adding a stone to one.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We expected to have a great hike, but with the discovery of this little waterfalls, our hike was fantastic. We’ll be returning there for sure.<br />
<br />
That’s all for today. Thanks for tagging along.<br />
Gene and Judihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18174560734474569999noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7250173008611568687.post-47435749154262287352012-08-24T06:20:00.000-05:002012-08-24T06:20:14.724-05:00Low Gap and Camel Gap Trails<br />
I’m not exactly sure how we ended up hiking fifteen miles to complete these trails, but I absolutely know my feet are still complaining. My knees, too, for that matter.<br />
<br />
The decision to do this came about something like this--Gene made a list of trails that he thought would be good hikes where the trailheads were down roads that would be closed during the winter. His goal was to get them hiked before the roads are closed. There are several of these roads in the Smokies; one happens to be the road to Cosby Campground. On my Smokies trail map I still had not hiked the 2.5 mile section of Low Gap from the Appalachian Trail down to Walnut Bottoms. So for our hike he suggested we do that section of trail.<br />
<br />
Of course, as is the case with a lot of trails in the Smokies, the trailhead for this section of trail was not at a road anywhere; it is 2.5 miles up the mountain where Low Gap Trail junctions with the Appalachian Trail in Low Gap. This is a good hike of 10 miles--2.5 miles up the mountain and 2.5 miles down the other side then retrace our steps back to the car.<br />
<br />
The real problem occurred after he mentioned the hike to me and I got to rolling it around in my head. Near the end of Low Gap Trail in Walnut Bottoms is Camel Gap Trail which I also needed to hike for the sake of coloring in my map. By using the AT it is possible to make what we call a lollypop hike--a loop at the end of a stick. The only problem with that is the total distance of 15 miles. I thought about it almost all day. I surely didn’t want to do 15 miles, but it was going to be the only way to get Camel Gap Trail without doing an overnight backpack. <br />
<br />
I went to bed thinking it would be easier to hike 15 miles with a small day pack than carry a heavy backpack up that mountain. When Gene came to bed I asked him what he thought about doing 15 miles. We slept on the idea. The next morning we threw more food in our packs and ran out the door with coffee mugs in hand to get a very early start--the trailhead was a 2-hour drive from our house.<br />
<br />
As I said earlier, the trailhead for Low Gap Trail is in Cosby Campground. There is a gigantic parking lot for hikers just before you pass through the campground check-in office and the trailhead is at the end of this parking area. However, there is a very small parking area which will accommodate about 2 cars located at a spur trail which leads to Low Gap Trail. This spur trail saves about a half or three-quarters of a mile on the hike. We wanted to save every step we could. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzqOQZhA3Rx0biqO6QbnQ-p41pDlmfRqdeyMu9sc1XzOZCQsM5SQlpJcRuOer9tifnLTbvc0w5jcZoC7HZdkCA316XIN2noeSHdsuxIUIQMyP_etLZNP4U3ULsGObMtCyL2vedyAspTWM/s1600/IMG_9785.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzqOQZhA3Rx0biqO6QbnQ-p41pDlmfRqdeyMu9sc1XzOZCQsM5SQlpJcRuOer9tifnLTbvc0w5jcZoC7HZdkCA316XIN2noeSHdsuxIUIQMyP_etLZNP4U3ULsGObMtCyL2vedyAspTWM/s400/IMG_9785.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
The first quarter mile or so is along a gravel road which is used by Park Service to access the water supply for the campground. The trail then crosses Cosby Creek on a footbridge and the trail then becomes a regular dirt path. The trail climbs steeply, following Cosby Creek upstream for about the first mile. The trail continues to climb, using switchbacks to gain 2000 feet before coming out at Low Gap at the junction with the Appalachian Trail.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNXtt1-PntDKu9Mu0CbsYjYFs4UQCRhbzUNvfMkrJkdNvrP8l5odykiT3pgKFXDQVp1a7zTCaqtHG-QtEH8DAX12aQ9oYKvt7XNpEitrk7bOa71Mbcj1veKjsXsFWbtcKN6jxLnmNLyZE/s1600/Cosby+Creek.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNXtt1-PntDKu9Mu0CbsYjYFs4UQCRhbzUNvfMkrJkdNvrP8l5odykiT3pgKFXDQVp1a7zTCaqtHG-QtEH8DAX12aQ9oYKvt7XNpEitrk7bOa71Mbcj1veKjsXsFWbtcKN6jxLnmNLyZE/s400/Cosby+Creek.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cosby Creek</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We stopped for a short break in the gap before heading down hill on the other side of Low Gap. We’d be back here later in the day. This side of Low Gap Trail is as steep as what we had come up losing 1500 feet as it drops down to Big Creek at Walnut Bottoms. We came down pretty quickly and were more than ready for a lunch break by the time we got to the junction with Big Creek Trail.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd3GQ9VzySsdjBZNhxdkKDB73_d2CQ8gndKVOJDDtdpSPkgMc9OQcoHPgr48HZbimqMdaKlzR5IZ0VFFAh-LmBx9GHU0I8TIH4OXlewcxT8HKcbWyeuPzn5rA5it3BUcwjcPydYpe-Tyw/s1600/Trail+sign+at+Low+Gap.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd3GQ9VzySsdjBZNhxdkKDB73_d2CQ8gndKVOJDDtdpSPkgMc9OQcoHPgr48HZbimqMdaKlzR5IZ0VFFAh-LmBx9GHU0I8TIH4OXlewcxT8HKcbWyeuPzn5rA5it3BUcwjcPydYpe-Tyw/s400/Trail+sign+at+Low+Gap.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
After our lunch we headed right for a half mile to the junction with Camel Gap Trail. After the steep climb and steep descent on Low Gap Trail, Camel Gap Trail was a delight. The trail is along a well graded old logging railroad bed and gains only 1500 over the course of 4.7 miles. That seemed like nothing compared to the steepness of Low Gap Trail.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmmN8uRmrCoXn6vDjUJUshzMyvlQSTuoPj8fppW383rBgxoQ4yfokrJfeFLCtbT4ehJ1h9S9F9zhnJb-LasOv4w-BCrDG32wE3Mw0UydTaV0M5DCmdA6jnVcqJk936AcNs_-tmiSDUwfA/s1600/Big+Creek+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmmN8uRmrCoXn6vDjUJUshzMyvlQSTuoPj8fppW383rBgxoQ4yfokrJfeFLCtbT4ehJ1h9S9F9zhnJb-LasOv4w-BCrDG32wE3Mw0UydTaV0M5DCmdA6jnVcqJk936AcNs_-tmiSDUwfA/s400/Big+Creek+1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Camel Gap is a beautiful trail at first following along side Big Creek then smaller creeks as it gained the slope through hardwood forest. The trail became only slightly steeper as we turned away from the water and headed up to Camel Gap at the junction with the Appalachian Trail.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKsul3vRE7bWyXFZHtRqs8XyEvS7y5sjj55VcCyxM9wtc_uv_toicSYS2GV5ga6gZW7qIxMbx5CrkKqazwwIU6EwYH_3krRREyHUvGNrcdGkg9607IN0Y7z2F7ySUQYRlyDhN8SctzlJQ/s1600/Big+Creek+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKsul3vRE7bWyXFZHtRqs8XyEvS7y5sjj55VcCyxM9wtc_uv_toicSYS2GV5ga6gZW7qIxMbx5CrkKqazwwIU6EwYH_3krRREyHUvGNrcdGkg9607IN0Y7z2F7ySUQYRlyDhN8SctzlJQ/s400/Big+Creek+2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Another break was in order at this junction. At this point we had completed 10 of the 15 miles and were feeling pretty good. After our short break we turned right onto the Appalachian Trail and started our last climb for the day--300 feet over Cosby Knob. This short climb was easier than I expected. Then it was downhill for the rest of the way.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW-Vjj_sbckTbXaaJIERTxMYgpds6z_DSWFTzkqTtl0ADpkDhzxhKQaofH39Xfi63nuMdCG3KtH_lbCIAqCTWcq_Cv5LBCnsXcZgLIAH4dlIPiJ5k3lCX7xP2Vs7EjQ5YV01aBVhcyfDY/s1600/Break+at+Camel+Gap.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW-Vjj_sbckTbXaaJIERTxMYgpds6z_DSWFTzkqTtl0ADpkDhzxhKQaofH39Xfi63nuMdCG3KtH_lbCIAqCTWcq_Cv5LBCnsXcZgLIAH4dlIPiJ5k3lCX7xP2Vs7EjQ5YV01aBVhcyfDY/s400/Break+at+Camel+Gap.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Taking a break and checking the map in Camel Gap</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
After 1.8 miles on the AT, we stopped in at Cosby Knob Shelter. Gene needed water and that was the best place to get it. We took a short break at the shelter, but it may have been a mistake. Cosby Knob Shelter is several feet below the trail and we noticed on the climb back up that we were getting pretty tired. It was a good thing we didn’t have any more up hill. <br />
<br />
This section of the AT is very steep and rocky. We were worn out by the time we descended the 700 feet to Low Gap. Our feet and legs hurt, but our spirits were high. It was only 5 PM and only 2.5 miles to go.<br />
<br />
We took another short break in the gap then started our final leg of the hike. All those other miles were taking their toll and it was pretty slow going. Down hill is so much harder on the feet and legs. You cannot believe how happy I was to see that footbridge over Cosby Creek. Still, it seemed to take forever to get down that short section of gravel road and I didn’t even have the energy to get out the camera when the bear crossed the road about 50 yards in front of me. It’s a good thing the bear went on about his own business because I didn’t even have the energy or desire to stop. I was headed for the car.<br />
<br />
All the trails in this loop are nice, but I particularly enjoyed Camel Gap Trail. I love hiking by the water and the trail was so gentle it gave me a chance to enjoy what I was seeing. It’s too bad this trail is so far from a road. The distance prevents most people from ever enjoying its beauty.<br />
<br />
That’s all I have to say for today. Thanks for tagging along.<br />
Gene and Judihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18174560734474569999noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7250173008611568687.post-1075029142592262162012-08-21T15:01:00.002-05:002012-08-21T15:01:36.917-05:00Trillium Gap Trail to Brushy Mountain<br />
We got with our hiking friend, Sharon, and she suggested we go up to Brushy Mountain via the Trillium Gap Trail. That was a great suggestion and it turned out to be a beautiful hike.<br />
<br />
Trillium Gap Trail is one of the four trails which lead to Mt. LeConte Lodge. The others are Rainbow Falls Trail, Alum Cave Trail, and The Boulevard Trail. Of course, there are other trails which make connections with these making other routes possible. Brushy Mountain Trail junctions with Trillium Gap Trail and Bull Head Trails junctions with Rainbow Falls Trail.<br />
<br />
Trillium Gap Trail is nine miles long from its trailhead in Cherokee Orchard to LeConte Lodge. For our hike today we were only doing a short 2.8 mile section, or what is commonly thought of as the middle section of Trillium Gap Trail. To access the middle of the trail we didn’t use the large parking area at the trailhead. Trillium Gap Trail actually begins off of Rainbow Falls Trail a short distance from that trailhead. After leaving Rainbow Falls Trail, Trillium Gap Trail more or less parallels Cherokee Orchard Road for about two miles at which point a short access trail comes up from the Grotto Falls parking area. We used this access trail as a means to get to Trillium Gap Trail without having to start at the beginning.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg21ipFZQP1QMXtc-DBA45_6YCOrCk6mpfbcjkNkiwDPK4OMLtec2QmsaEew1Ab1FYK5OGYUwGfqtsV-z1aKguKDIjlZmPwLjzrtpA7HiPkgQ4bAU-G7aLuq067O8Llv7svbvtNdyRKvFA/s1600/Grotto+Falls+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg21ipFZQP1QMXtc-DBA45_6YCOrCk6mpfbcjkNkiwDPK4OMLtec2QmsaEew1Ab1FYK5OGYUwGfqtsV-z1aKguKDIjlZmPwLjzrtpA7HiPkgQ4bAU-G7aLuq067O8Llv7svbvtNdyRKvFA/s400/Grotto+Falls+1.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
The Grotto Falls parking area is about 2 miles from the beginning of the one-way Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail. The parking lot will accommodate several cars, but this is one of the most popular hikes in the park, so the spaces go quickly. Also, because this trail leads to Mt LeConte, some vehicles will be there overnight. We arrived about 9 AM and were able to find a parking space near the end of the lot and didn’t have to try to squeeze to the shoulder of this very narrow road.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinoA1u2rhgQZnff8UYUcyvlDR2EAT6QZr7pqz6vQum014NfOc54GgL83byHVEI7l-vI2CShzayjaSseTS_j4CFKpJLzw132k0kYmZMKvqQzRv57jxSJsQroyoT7YXXr0McnSp5QCKyGzg/s1600/Grotto+Falls+lower.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinoA1u2rhgQZnff8UYUcyvlDR2EAT6QZr7pqz6vQum014NfOc54GgL83byHVEI7l-vI2CShzayjaSseTS_j4CFKpJLzw132k0kYmZMKvqQzRv57jxSJsQroyoT7YXXr0McnSp5QCKyGzg/s400/Grotto+Falls+lower.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lower portion of Grotto Falls</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The primary feature along this trail is Grotto Falls located just 1.4 miles from the parking area. It is a relatively easy climb on a wide, well used trail to one of the prettiest falls in the Park. No wonder it gets crowds every day. On the morning of our hike, we only saw 3 or 4 other people on the trail as we made our way past the falls.<br />
<br />
Roaring Fork, the source of Grotto Falls, drops approximately 25 feet as it falls over the rock outcrop into a small pool then quickly tumbles again over boulders as it rushes on its journey to join the West Prong of the Little Pigeon River near Gatlinburg. There are boulders all around the falls. Sometimes they seem to be in the way of the best camera shot, but they make great places to sit and enjoy the beauty of the falls.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAORkghkbOWZR5-7q8dYnGt_f25YS7nhlOdtoeBR0tkROllhQ4BXPcTnEkLcgBfptBFJFXDA2Os-R7QRaE5i9VRB961rvZvDTpWqWlIzJED85eP-wiVAKOv9eILQnff16j-Up_Z0X3adU/s1600/Trail+behind+Grotto+Falls.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAORkghkbOWZR5-7q8dYnGt_f25YS7nhlOdtoeBR0tkROllhQ4BXPcTnEkLcgBfptBFJFXDA2Os-R7QRaE5i9VRB961rvZvDTpWqWlIzJED85eP-wiVAKOv9eILQnff16j-Up_Z0X3adU/s400/Trail+behind+Grotto+Falls.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
The trail actually goes behind the falls. This can be a wet spot depending on the amount of recent rainfall, but we only got a little spray on our boots as we passed behind the falls. Grotto Falls is the destination for most hikers on this trail. We, however, we continuing beyond the falls up to Trillium Gap where we would junction with Brushy Mountain Trail.<br />
<br />
Even on days when there are crowds at the Falls, the trail above the falls is blessedly peaceful. There may be the occasional day hikers like ourselves or the few guests coming or going from Mt LeConte Lodge, but certainly not the throngs of folks that clog the trail below the falls.<br />
<br />
This is also the trail which the wrangler uses to lead the llamas to and from Mt Leconte Lodge. The llama trailer was in the parking area and there was evidence on the pavement and on the trail that they had been there earlier that morning. I’m sorry we missed them. That would have been a real treat to see.<br />
<br />
The trail above the falls becomes a bit steeper, but not too strenuous as it gains another thousand feet before meeting Brushy Mountain Trail in Trillium Gap. The gap is a large grassy spot with a couple of logs to sit on for a break. In the middle of the gap is a 4-way intersection. Trillium Gap Trail makes a sharp right turn here to continue on to Mt. LeConte. Straight ahead of us as we came up Trillium Gap Trail is Brushy Mountain Trail. To go straight here would lead 5.5 miles to Greenbrier Cove. Our destination was to the left about a quarter mile up to the summit of Brushy Mountain.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOTmqlx2NbJ4P8SGW62AXXxnGu90YAk7ZiOzqGzAKSssNDOqlym7kJ3_aqHUedskLnzg_51O0vvt0cSMlNTHobsDoi9R5VKxJl_zowtQ1faCgf3Fa7CalNeveV9sAoYKiMzeiLhLkTowg/s1600/Trail+on+Brushy+Mtn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOTmqlx2NbJ4P8SGW62AXXxnGu90YAk7ZiOzqGzAKSssNDOqlym7kJ3_aqHUedskLnzg_51O0vvt0cSMlNTHobsDoi9R5VKxJl_zowtQ1faCgf3Fa7CalNeveV9sAoYKiMzeiLhLkTowg/s400/Trail+on+Brushy+Mtn.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Trail on Brushy Mountain</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Brushy Mountain is a heath bald which offers some tremendous views. This is different from the grassy balds we’ve been visiting this summer. A heath bald is covered in short shrubs of the heath family--blueberry, sand myrtle, wintergreen, rhododendron, and mountain laurel. These shrubs can get pretty tall and I was barely able to see over the top. Fortunately, there is a “bald” spot just off the trail that offers excellent views. This is also a great spot for lunch as it is somewhat protected from the wind by the surrounding vegetation.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0T3u4VLbUMMTivaSL6DK3ettq5zRNp27wx_XCx4Dtz51zEWLrqqJYAlc7N-QwUc5pvLmRTbJcNZfPY7YnIjcOowg3akeBJu_MqcguW3BjGoW4YMe0OgFpfkkI0YyCSJdDkFMxGz6rJtY/s1600/Mt+LeConte+from+Brushy+Mtn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0T3u4VLbUMMTivaSL6DK3ettq5zRNp27wx_XCx4Dtz51zEWLrqqJYAlc7N-QwUc5pvLmRTbJcNZfPY7YnIjcOowg3akeBJu_MqcguW3BjGoW4YMe0OgFpfkkI0YyCSJdDkFMxGz6rJtY/s400/Mt+LeConte+from+Brushy+Mtn.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mt LeConte just under the cloud</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
A few rumbles of thunder and an ominous looking black cloud approaching from over Mt LeConte cut our lunch break a little short. We packed up our stuff and headed back down the mountain. Our return trip along Trillium Gap Trail was as peaceful and pleasant as our ascent had been until we got to Grotto Falls. The crowds had moved in and we had difficulty navigating our way behind the falls and over the surrounding boulders. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDzg6BSPre90K30tnXxzOW-TH9KYrHvfpEsIo9OgEaoTD27ZakRo1rOoCMMD9r4EshuZXn2QKJa-xixB5D8gBqOTQHWyHR05eYnY0WQwagzrMcfQGmxE5P0hbJ_TXNuebK3bHRdv66bDE/s1600/lunch+on+Brushy+Mtn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDzg6BSPre90K30tnXxzOW-TH9KYrHvfpEsIo9OgEaoTD27ZakRo1rOoCMMD9r4EshuZXn2QKJa-xixB5D8gBqOTQHWyHR05eYnY0WQwagzrMcfQGmxE5P0hbJ_TXNuebK3bHRdv66bDE/s400/lunch+on+Brushy+Mtn.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lunch spot of the day</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I guess I’m selfish and enjoy the solitude of a mountain trail. At the same time, I’m grateful all these people chose to venture out into the woods for a day of exercise, fresh air, and a big dose of nature at its best. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW-uXAPF3u5Hro3hXHSRlmNoD5RJfiEUitpN4H9DtgaH7dB2EC-xiBdaY7x406ECUmz-nl-ITyBpGzTozAbWvM3YHFWPE7pBw71_WslFEjh7ywahAPcN6QuFnfjz8ZVkTutAWEYheWhmY/s1600/View+from+lunch+spot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW-uXAPF3u5Hro3hXHSRlmNoD5RJfiEUitpN4H9DtgaH7dB2EC-xiBdaY7x406ECUmz-nl-ITyBpGzTozAbWvM3YHFWPE7pBw71_WslFEjh7ywahAPcN6QuFnfjz8ZVkTutAWEYheWhmY/s400/View+from+lunch+spot.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from our lunch spot</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
This is a beautiful hike and we’ll be coming here often. Thanks, Sharon, for sharing the hike and the day with us.<br />
<br />
That’s all for now. Thanks for tagging along.<br />
Gene and Judihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18174560734474569999noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7250173008611568687.post-41618643147414052602012-08-17T19:43:00.000-05:002012-08-17T19:46:47.665-05:00Finley Cane, Lead Cove Trails<br />
Well, we’re back in the Smokies now after a short trip over to North Carolina to do some hiking and sightseeing in Pisgah National Forest. That was a good trip and we enjoyed being in the motor home for a few days, even if we didn’t have hookups. I think we’re going to look forward to our little monthly trips. We have a little work to do to become efficient at preparing for the trip and then preparing the motor home to return to storage. I guess more practice is needed.<br />
<br />
The temperatures were nice and cool at 5,000 ft in Pisgah, but, surprisingly, we returned to pleasant weather in Maryville. It may be too much to expect that we’ve turned the corner on the worst of the summer weather. With these pleasant mornings, we’ve started looking at lower elevation hikes again. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5prQIsTPL79k4n_8wJgpOLhS8QmRTeq1EoxzCaKyMuTOz4EpeIU93e-rHvyQGU9R81bbMi5JbbhcqIGBB-5nLvEVxGfDHgJwVQhglM5cknTLDJGGWRUUR9VywTNe6Sb1rMi-xiWLsugs/s1600/IMG_9728.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5prQIsTPL79k4n_8wJgpOLhS8QmRTeq1EoxzCaKyMuTOz4EpeIU93e-rHvyQGU9R81bbMi5JbbhcqIGBB-5nLvEVxGfDHgJwVQhglM5cknTLDJGGWRUUR9VywTNe6Sb1rMi-xiWLsugs/s400/IMG_9728.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A small area of "switch" cane for which the trail is named.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Gene is usually in charge of picking our hikes and he chose to put Finley Cane, Bote Mountain, and Lead Cove Trails together to make a loop hike of 7 miles. The parking lot for Finley Cane and Lead Cove trails also serves Turkey Pen Ridge Trail and is located on Laurel Creek Road in the Park. There are two single lane parking areas, one on each side of the road, which can accommodate perhaps a dozen cars. All three of these trails are open to horses and it’s not uncommon to see horse trailers in the parking area.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy-SPsFCTgWbuCNRLCbRT63fLAu-aFFRsvwpwn1bGCe9jCdv6joWTjY9lj27KSMpLlQZo1z5PH-6cFwddcUa6EQREqB5b1FtSW6WwZucRbmPHOhOvpthA1-l2okKmaqq56WXki92HpsMs/s1600/IMG_9726.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy-SPsFCTgWbuCNRLCbRT63fLAu-aFFRsvwpwn1bGCe9jCdv6joWTjY9lj27KSMpLlQZo1z5PH-6cFwddcUa6EQREqB5b1FtSW6WwZucRbmPHOhOvpthA1-l2okKmaqq56WXki92HpsMs/s400/IMG_9726.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
We began our hike on the Finley Cane Trail. This is a great trail for a day hike. It’s an easy hike of 2.8 miles which only gains about 200 feet in elevation. For the Smokies, that’s practically flat. You have options with this trail, too. For a little bit longer hike, you could use Bote Mountain to connect with West Prong Trail and go over to campsite 18 for a lunch break before heading back to your car. Or, you can do like we did, and make a loop using Bote Mountain and Lead Cove.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC2tb1QTkh2xXFhu_7zDfMMrSI1hFx4hyphenhyphenzZtyOj-wQtAMOGTJXVLtv8ISo7tuSeoooHZkJgi9YNKq6UjZXmUdPjZcQxbv-Lk2EoiVJVogMEy_3xZUTjzi64nT0ipu_L_8KwVaZ1qpfW9Y/s1600/IMG_9722.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC2tb1QTkh2xXFhu_7zDfMMrSI1hFx4hyphenhyphenzZtyOj-wQtAMOGTJXVLtv8ISo7tuSeoooHZkJgi9YNKq6UjZXmUdPjZcQxbv-Lk2EoiVJVogMEy_3xZUTjzi64nT0ipu_L_8KwVaZ1qpfW9Y/s400/IMG_9722.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Evidence of recent storm damage. Trail crews have cleared<br />
the trail of any downed trees.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I just love this trail. It doesn’t have sweeping views, it doesn’t follow along beside a tumbling mountain stream, there is no waterfall or other feature. It simply winds its way peacefully in and out of coves of hardwoods and rhododendron. Perhaps that is what I love about it--a simple dirt path offering the peacefulness of the mountains. On the cool morning we were there, it seemed like a gift from God to refresh our souls.<br />
<br />
Bote Mountain Trail is quite the opposite. Long ago in the early 1800s this was the path used by James Spence to herd his cattle to Spence Field for summer grazing. Later on a road was built to connect Tennessee to the North Carolina side of the mountain. That didn’t work out too well since the North Carolina side of the road was never finished. The Tennessee road was kept open even after the National Park was established. Spence Field was a popular destination during the summer and the road led almost all the way to the top.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHkhxKANMse-K02FT5y1WFTIIcfK3O2WoSchbNdqeo2hHB5bgL4_ZEEeVsi8e3SiyjdqRuacgcQ3waOsosbQ58ND4TtI7BzG1tn1VkOChGFsTCE6qQBowAmgW1atERbRtkQ0Aho0fS1zE/s1600/IMG_9735.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHkhxKANMse-K02FT5y1WFTIIcfK3O2WoSchbNdqeo2hHB5bgL4_ZEEeVsi8e3SiyjdqRuacgcQ3waOsosbQ58ND4TtI7BzG1tn1VkOChGFsTCE6qQBowAmgW1atERbRtkQ0Aho0fS1zE/s400/IMG_9735.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr0dEY1sv9okupQxVrkYOffHKfc4Gm53WUtmy1UXPQZKfrhyphenhyphenTcpqSrTo1EAg3NglZiqPZRD4cNe4IfR_C23Dxe-pugNKiczrnK9Ft9LUmUr-euXBxxD9bdLzBjVZwDY-W2cynUZDy8XlU/s1600/IMG_9732.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr0dEY1sv9okupQxVrkYOffHKfc4Gm53WUtmy1UXPQZKfrhyphenhyphenTcpqSrTo1EAg3NglZiqPZRD4cNe4IfR_C23Dxe-pugNKiczrnK9Ft9LUmUr-euXBxxD9bdLzBjVZwDY-W2cynUZDy8XlU/s400/IMG_9732.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Today, it still looks much like an old mountain dirt road. Ugly, as trails go; and steep in places. We had a 1000 feet to climb and 2.5 miles to walk to get to our connecting trail, so we took a short break at the junction of Finley Cane and Bote Mountain. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_Ue6y_0ttvP6JJfl-hcD8YtD88kwywSHfDDKE8nGHjo-wFNyUkMz5dd5sC0EmCpsQ4oCcrlEcFVqwPJUapEOeh1MYIS2T8kqRNMXaAS_TGNbwCIOQZ2LaaThsW2Ld2Vq-j7V1QN85BMU/s1600/IMG_9739.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_Ue6y_0ttvP6JJfl-hcD8YtD88kwywSHfDDKE8nGHjo-wFNyUkMz5dd5sC0EmCpsQ4oCcrlEcFVqwPJUapEOeh1MYIS2T8kqRNMXaAS_TGNbwCIOQZ2LaaThsW2Ld2Vq-j7V1QN85BMU/s400/IMG_9739.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
The first mile of our trek up Bote Mountain was steep and rocky. We have done this trail numerous times and knew what to expect. Even during summer, Bote Mountain trail offers the occasional view and I stopped every chance I had to make a picture and catch my breath. Fortunately for us, the only “flat” spot on Bote Mountain Trail occurs between Finley Cane and Lead Cove and after about a mile we had a mile of welcome relief from the climb. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxa7pz8Iu98nWb6qZC_Ubbk9paLExsTZH2FWzPp1ykVRyEq11NOHuc9QCcJ9VKEo-z1FK77Vvu_GZYIRG-5jR917AWLglDstgzbal5ZKTe8maR7zrOwWBRTwhYbwpWlWMloVa0kg9Hiuw/s1600/IMG_9740.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxa7pz8Iu98nWb6qZC_Ubbk9paLExsTZH2FWzPp1ykVRyEq11NOHuc9QCcJ9VKEo-z1FK77Vvu_GZYIRG-5jR917AWLglDstgzbal5ZKTe8maR7zrOwWBRTwhYbwpWlWMloVa0kg9Hiuw/s400/IMG_9740.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Along the flat section of Bote Mountain Trail</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfzUiwYHj-03XmsnAlUypTuZn9wL6lQke53Iwxr79nR28qL3XIOUG57vo3duhQ3mFu2tR1c00I62C_IGeWyYpGe5jIQ3ERolX-OzIUFV5Jia37bXbDfiKhyQbNnrOyD6Tux5u8Ag94z_8/s1600/IMG_9742.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfzUiwYHj-03XmsnAlUypTuZn9wL6lQke53Iwxr79nR28qL3XIOUG57vo3duhQ3mFu2tR1c00I62C_IGeWyYpGe5jIQ3ERolX-OzIUFV5Jia37bXbDfiKhyQbNnrOyD6Tux5u8Ag94z_8/s400/IMG_9742.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Another break was in order at the junction with Lead Cove before we started down to undo that 1000 feet of climb. Lead Cove Trail is much like Finley Cane except with the elevation change. It’s not as relaxing as Finley Cane because it requires so much concentration whether you’re going up hill or down. I prefer the down hill, but the steepness is hard on my knees.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsBnbvegOPZ6Yb_oVCcnHiJP4-tLetsyA20tKJx4U9Qwsa5UuA1FkFqPP0XwgWdK2QRlh3HtNz_kT74hv3fW_h8CvLFyrGxrreODgkKaX-QNW6sh1en5vJa3tCglPqXS_nL4zgPJnX1Oc/s1600/IMG_9744.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsBnbvegOPZ6Yb_oVCcnHiJP4-tLetsyA20tKJx4U9Qwsa5UuA1FkFqPP0XwgWdK2QRlh3HtNz_kT74hv3fW_h8CvLFyrGxrreODgkKaX-QNW6sh1en5vJa3tCglPqXS_nL4zgPJnX1Oc/s400/IMG_9744.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Lead Cove was the short section of this hike--only 1.8 miles. Since we had gotten an early start we were back at the car shortly after noon. It was nice to hike at Pisgah for a change of pace, but I was glad to be back on the trial in the Smokies.<br />
<br />
That’s all for today. Thanks for tagging along.Gene and Judihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18174560734474569999noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7250173008611568687.post-12468590501424460742012-08-15T18:11:00.000-05:002012-08-15T18:12:35.983-05:00Looking Glass Rock<br />
One of the great views from the Blue Ridge Parkway is of Looking Glass Rock. Every time we’ve stopped at the overlook at milepost 417 with Looking Glass Rock so prominent in the distance, we say we’re going to hike that someday. We finally made a plan to hike to the top of Looking Glass Rock.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOQBtCaZe6cB0KaRZGVUONCUudLmAqatPCW7WsbW6J8xuLfla5MxVviLSJaXcGIjzce3BGXHlSzhiJg5PuJWXm2lpk1zZ-xIp39nLLIAVxwCFN-iWr9-Ceg9Rxb-Wmmm-jJWjCApasEoQ/s1600/Looking+Glass+Rock+from+BRP.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOQBtCaZe6cB0KaRZGVUONCUudLmAqatPCW7WsbW6J8xuLfla5MxVviLSJaXcGIjzce3BGXHlSzhiJg5PuJWXm2lpk1zZ-xIp39nLLIAVxwCFN-iWr9-Ceg9Rxb-Wmmm-jJWjCApasEoQ/s320/Looking+Glass+Rock+from+BRP.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
This massive rock gets its name from the way the sun is reflected from the rock face when water freezes on the surface. They say it looks like a mirror. Maybe we’ll get a chance to see it in winter sometime. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9nfDRKkw_C1bxBDiydJU0m_H3my2jgS2Rhh4Tmw4jnLG1FfrhX0ahWEe_39MYntS9wT16-rt7kLfblTDLxHLqMHHBhYZNij1gvO2nlf0iwSZwjWQUAco1bAc41GBpYqTFtMmuvJzl8GE/s1600/Looking+Glass+Falls.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9nfDRKkw_C1bxBDiydJU0m_H3my2jgS2Rhh4Tmw4jnLG1FfrhX0ahWEe_39MYntS9wT16-rt7kLfblTDLxHLqMHHBhYZNij1gvO2nlf0iwSZwjWQUAco1bAc41GBpYqTFtMmuvJzl8GE/s320/Looking+Glass+Falls.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
As we were coming down from the Blue Ridge Parkway on US 276 we stopped at Looking Glass Falls. Since this waterfall is right by the relatively busy US highway, it gets a lot of visitors. We were lucky there were only about a dozen folks there when we stopped. A stairway goes down from the road to the lower level for good views of the falls from several points. The falls drops about 60 feet into a pool deep enough for swimming. No one was brave enough to be in that cold water when we were there, but there were several climbing on the rocks just at the edge of the water.<br />
<br />
The Looking Glass Rock trailhead is located on Fish Hatchery Road just off of US 276 not so far from the Cradle of Forestry and only a couple miles from the falls. This is a popular trail and the parking lot is large enough to accommodate several cars.<br />
<br />
The hike begins gently by way of switchbacks for about the first mile. The trail is wide and well maintained. When the switchbacks came to an end we enjoyed a relatively flat trail for a short distance. Then the real climbing began; up and up to gain the rest of the 1500 feet of elevation to the top.<br />
<br />
Just over 2 miles into our hike we came to a large, flat rock to our left. This is the helipad used by search and rescue teams. It’s marked with a large white “H” near the center. Any exposed rock face such as this is an invitation to rock climbers and Looking Glass Rock has its fair share. Accidents happen all to frequently. Since we are hiking up the “back” side of the mountain, we didn’t see any climbers.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaLw2ryhy5WsL0O_AAqXV7Jr5bJvXqertXQT2-CmAog5Q5SJIIilxxkAIy_d-BlFxbGwgGEn6B1UrpzBAPBhyphenhyphenMJ9arstDiafCih6C2dKsEGAFWvdGmIYl274L73EbTsk0a8s3tng39hik/s1600/IMG_9693.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaLw2ryhy5WsL0O_AAqXV7Jr5bJvXqertXQT2-CmAog5Q5SJIIilxxkAIy_d-BlFxbGwgGEn6B1UrpzBAPBhyphenhyphenMJ9arstDiafCih6C2dKsEGAFWvdGmIYl274L73EbTsk0a8s3tng39hik/s320/IMG_9693.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
After a short break on the helipad, we continue our trek to the top. I keep saying the “top” and that’s how I think of it, but the granite rock face we’re headed to is actually below the summit. About mile 3 we actually reach the highest point on our hike--an overused campsite without any views. The trail continues across this area and then down for about a tenth of a mile to the exposed granite at the edge of the mountain. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNlD0zVSMHQUmrDlxE8hshWiTG5nQKKO2dGdOfeZ6XrDTnqPRz-u7odtUCzrGLcMXgV1ohKPQ7z5GappWnb5l9FxTWbmy26EEFYb36ku_eQXz8CrKSQEV14oi0H0MeU3AIwVzEZZKlOOg/s1600/IMG_9701.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNlD0zVSMHQUmrDlxE8hshWiTG5nQKKO2dGdOfeZ6XrDTnqPRz-u7odtUCzrGLcMXgV1ohKPQ7z5GappWnb5l9FxTWbmy26EEFYb36ku_eQXz8CrKSQEV14oi0H0MeU3AIwVzEZZKlOOg/s320/IMG_9701.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiethj6vTx-c7norpKs-nnHqqbZOGnymMA0pLnPW7494pso6AYMroHQqj7U3PKcg-rMQ6ROtXeXK5wmTp8VEQTIdktgvGECTwUQBjrtI1HqhTi3yRj-nOqi2ycZnOZxyfPK8e21xTYlb5U/s1600/Looking+Glass+Rock+Aug+2012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiethj6vTx-c7norpKs-nnHqqbZOGnymMA0pLnPW7494pso6AYMroHQqj7U3PKcg-rMQ6ROtXeXK5wmTp8VEQTIdktgvGECTwUQBjrtI1HqhTi3yRj-nOqi2ycZnOZxyfPK8e21xTYlb5U/s320/Looking+Glass+Rock+Aug+2012.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZNb_IBjCVsqA91dgTCa0PshkEZREsyZDPdZHbwcxZAyHUGrKUNDVCx79WbcC83kAVHHEy6umfIPCVdmjKyh1ZWhNKs2OApiRuhM6xL5G5VKe_3R4zHkcib3x4iM9RxGf3WVIqW4LlXGg/s1600/IMG_9702.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZNb_IBjCVsqA91dgTCa0PshkEZREsyZDPdZHbwcxZAyHUGrKUNDVCx79WbcC83kAVHHEy6umfIPCVdmjKyh1ZWhNKs2OApiRuhM6xL5G5VKe_3R4zHkcib3x4iM9RxGf3WVIqW4LlXGg/s320/IMG_9702.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv30WEPJfWg9OhXBj9-itTMwiRVu0DSx7GaMR_6-ErZ_5M-dM5P9SF1fcmQ6ZFxkSOap2ttdXs9i-yjzFJptDifOXrY-_zNLdIS-3JrfIZirD6HHnoz5MAri5AmpeiY3y88-b5NlqRfKI/s1600/IMG_9703.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv30WEPJfWg9OhXBj9-itTMwiRVu0DSx7GaMR_6-ErZ_5M-dM5P9SF1fcmQ6ZFxkSOap2ttdXs9i-yjzFJptDifOXrY-_zNLdIS-3JrfIZirD6HHnoz5MAri5AmpeiY3y88-b5NlqRfKI/s320/IMG_9703.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="320" /></a></div>
We venture out only a few feet to get a good look around and take in the views, but the rock slopes quickly and we find our lunch spot closer to the trees. From our vantage point, we can see the cars driving along the Blue Ridge Parkway in spots along the ridge above and can see the lookout where we have stood so often looking down on this big rock.<br />
<br />
After a leisurely lunch break, we pack up to retrace our steps to the car.<br />
<br />
This is a popular hike and there were several on the mountain with us. Unfortunately, many try to save a few steps by cutting the switchbacks and the terrain surrounding the trail is scarred and unsightly. Still, the view from the top is awesome, so I guess I can ignore some of the destruction.<br />
<br />
That’s it for today. Thanks for tagging along.<br />
Gene and Judihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18174560734474569999noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7250173008611568687.post-62032058019872442342012-08-13T19:04:00.003-05:002012-08-13T19:04:23.998-05:00Cradle of Forestry<br />
While we’re in the area and all immersed in the legacy of George Vanderbilt, we wanted to visit the <a href="http://www.cradleofforestry.com/site/">Cradle of Forestry</a> located only about 8 miles from Mt Pisgah Campground.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw6xGSyIAVApWxBcYBbbBCdajiEeKL2c4VAif3Z5HABHvbiFwjT8PEigqkMK0if3iGnE7mf5d7-GrBPa4o0XLBbFSkudgYk0rowq-Gf-Is1yWXPkTYvxGxqKe2mfpkhkYxDkFwSVL-DBo/s1600/field+of+cone+flowers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw6xGSyIAVApWxBcYBbbBCdajiEeKL2c4VAif3Z5HABHvbiFwjT8PEigqkMK0if3iGnE7mf5d7-GrBPa4o0XLBbFSkudgYk0rowq-Gf-Is1yWXPkTYvxGxqKe2mfpkhkYxDkFwSVL-DBo/s400/field+of+cone+flowers.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
The Cradle of Forestry is the location of the first school of forestry in the United States. It came about thanks to George Vanderbilt. Most of the 125,000 acres of Vanderbilt was forest (which he called the “Pisgah Forest”) and for him the forest was all about making money. He wanted someone to manage his forest so that profits would continue to roll in. He hired Gifford Pinchot to oversee his forest. Pinchot eventually passed this job on to Carl Schenck. It was Schenck, who had been educated in a German forestry school, who had the vision to open a forestry school in America. <br />
<br />
The Biltmore Forest School opened in 1898 and turned out to be very successful. During the 15 years in which the school was in operation, some 350 students studied the science of forestry. From this small beginning came the Forest Service of today.<br />
<br />
In 1914 the Forest Service purchased the “Pisgah Forest”, which also included the site of the Biltmore Forest School, from George Vanderbilt’s widow, Edith. Her only request was that the name be retained. Today, we know this area as Pisgah National Forest.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggxbiqh1ydmiNrcPkEQgGzBKDrHPWTspapiCh_0K6MC-dgDSYxYZRxG9Vr7UugK8RAnMgF1UP_C-nYQKV4GBCSyamhnh39QlsxP2gipUA_KSFwNFIR9-lUyyAScgktV6ZjIGU6IgzNuEk/s1600/Cradle+of+Forestry+VC.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggxbiqh1ydmiNrcPkEQgGzBKDrHPWTspapiCh_0K6MC-dgDSYxYZRxG9Vr7UugK8RAnMgF1UP_C-nYQKV4GBCSyamhnh39QlsxP2gipUA_KSFwNFIR9-lUyyAScgktV6ZjIGU6IgzNuEk/s400/Cradle+of+Forestry+VC.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cradle of Forestry Visitor Center</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We started our tour at the Visitor Center. This is a magnificent facility with a theater, display gallery, classrooms, and, of course, a small gift shop. We were in a hurry so zipped through this very quickly. We did not allow nearly enough time. That just means we’ll have to go back some time.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpbcFEKqzA6rXEsKi9V5xEsKEXYzPW3DKWR8RQT-qLtnhIUEQ7GxhWzL2QnNlPOajvoK70ppnrbCdEVc6CDxKCqok1fSeMF08vWdUaAztowVi7HTNgGa64-qxsFhp_9GlXWjdxS5QE02c/s1600/Biltmore+Forest+School.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpbcFEKqzA6rXEsKi9V5xEsKEXYzPW3DKWR8RQT-qLtnhIUEQ7GxhWzL2QnNlPOajvoK70ppnrbCdEVc6CDxKCqok1fSeMF08vWdUaAztowVi7HTNgGa64-qxsFhp_9GlXWjdxS5QE02c/s400/Biltmore+Forest+School.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Biltmore Forest School</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We spent most of our time on a guided tour of the Biltmore Forest School campus. We were the only ones on the tour, so had the tour guide all to ourselves. I love it when this happens. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZRwHwsW4SSP3_S4nUxN0ugHDVR3lfUHwEKwVNk2DcHV62v8hFzAhZEvjO7OZqwcq9QLgYvolutMF25grFIakjfksFccaRYKd-hC4xFwB04gp54t7nVCB9OI5-IySo-zrmCtkzsZt8770/s1600/King+House%252C+Ranger+residence.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZRwHwsW4SSP3_S4nUxN0ugHDVR3lfUHwEKwVNk2DcHV62v8hFzAhZEvjO7OZqwcq9QLgYvolutMF25grFIakjfksFccaRYKd-hC4xFwB04gp54t7nVCB9OI5-IySo-zrmCtkzsZt8770/s400/King+House%252C+Ranger+residence.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The King House</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Our first stop was at a reconstruction of the small school building. Apparently, Dr. Schenck was a real task master and the students worked long and hard to get their education. As we continued along the mile-long trail around the campus we visited the general store, the King house which was used as a forestry employees’ residence, the blacksmith shop, Schenck’s office, and the Rangers’ residence.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKZKbkMnCObvBTTcDWgis7FZV9FNcr0f3_KHt3xtH3dV5AuyBOib7occRt7L8-jKSt68g0F7Efho3ZTlq1BmHGTb4RJDoM5t2y9I2j5MmYCUjWFNDLaso60WefnMqHob0BMDLFZTY1638/s1600/Ranger+house.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKZKbkMnCObvBTTcDWgis7FZV9FNcr0f3_KHt3xtH3dV5AuyBOib7occRt7L8-jKSt68g0F7Efho3ZTlq1BmHGTb4RJDoM5t2y9I2j5MmYCUjWFNDLaso60WefnMqHob0BMDLFZTY1638/s400/Ranger+house.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Rangers' Residence with Gene and our volunteer guide</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
There is a second tour along the Forest Festival Trail. This tour is a more in-depth look at what Biltmore Forest School taught the students and explains the science of forestry. We had other plans so were not able to do this tour. We’re putting it on our list for our next visit.<br />
<br />
We will definitely be back to the Cradle of Forestry. We had no idea it entailed so much and didn’t allow nearly enough time to do it justice. We’ll be back.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgifCrPnqJZ8rLID9uhQ6Od3J9giU6nzJed_ki-fqKoixHe4AVPEeNVgvUbI1nMp2SYRfNygt3ljGg1ukHK2NzKVIU76wL7PzDVyJPRY3X3JoPaGclGT_IIpg_ikmS4nbUUYAxbW7z-8Kg/s1600/Wishnie%252C+Jo%252C+fred%252C+and+BooBoo%252C+2009.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgifCrPnqJZ8rLID9uhQ6Od3J9giU6nzJed_ki-fqKoixHe4AVPEeNVgvUbI1nMp2SYRfNygt3ljGg1ukHK2NzKVIU76wL7PzDVyJPRY3X3JoPaGclGT_IIpg_ikmS4nbUUYAxbW7z-8Kg/s400/Wishnie%252C+Jo%252C+fred%252C+and+BooBoo%252C+2009.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jo, Fred, and Boo Boo taken in Rio Grande Valley in 2009</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The reason we were in such a rush was a visit with friends, Fred and Jo Wishnie of <a href="http://www.mytripjournal.com/wanderingwishnies">The Wandering Wishnies</a>. They are volunteering at Cradle of Forestry for the next couple of months. We’ve been following the Wishnies in their wanderings for several years and first met them in person 2009 while in the Rio Grande Valley. It was good to see Fred and Jo again. <br />
<br />
That’s it for today. Thanks for tagging along.<br />
Gene and Judihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18174560734474569999noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7250173008611568687.post-89608562033510632032012-08-11T17:52:00.000-05:002012-08-11T17:52:36.349-05:00Mount Pisgah Trail<br />
Mount Pisgah (5721 ft), for which the Pisgah National Forest is named, was our hike for today.<br />
<br />
The name “Pisgah” comes from the Bible. It was atop Mount Pisgah that God revealed to “Promised Land” to Moses. This is not that Mount Pisgah. There seems to be some controversy on how this mountain got its name. However, both stories credit the naming of the mountain to ministers who looked out over the rich land surrounding the mountain and were reminded of the Moses story of the Promised Land.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL7GyXQVJy3FCx5dVhYo2mXb-GF-FPJ6eU52517Y8qlDiV7wf7SVo73Fg_CFM_RI1TJcivguQFxO2_u2yOmSPC5ZVobny6QfHmIDSaqS-ZoDQLSJX7rcsJv4n7uxrf15c6Gl4JD7RsPIw/s1600/Mt+Pisgah.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL7GyXQVJy3FCx5dVhYo2mXb-GF-FPJ6eU52517Y8qlDiV7wf7SVo73Fg_CFM_RI1TJcivguQFxO2_u2yOmSPC5ZVobny6QfHmIDSaqS-ZoDQLSJX7rcsJv4n7uxrf15c6Gl4JD7RsPIw/s400/Mt+Pisgah.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mount Pisgah</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
During the late 1890s some 125,000 acres of land, including Mount Pisgah, was acquired by George Vanderbilt. Down the mountain from Mount Pisgah, near Asheville, is the Biltmore Estate, the home of George Vanderbilt. In addition to the Vanderbilt mansion down below, they also had a hunting lodge on the ridge about a mile from where the Pisgah Inn is located today. A seventeen mile trail led from the Biltmore Estate to the Buck Springs hunting lodge. The lodge was rustic compared to the mansion in Asheville, but what it lacked in marble it made up for in having, in the late 1890s, hot and cold running water. That trail is still open today and is called the Shut-In Trail. Of course, the hunting lodge is long gone.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz4mjRT5PVeH4vV5rY3DH-l9Z1Fh4zBALpjF3a8hNPupFLWNGx3jEA4cOdJ7uE2NOBP5ED1xX9XVMN8SNt76Hmgb7iECbEmdC_TI6uaRmjdYZ8Vli_iX1_KoRRho8B-ShnN7KeYZRt9Lg/s1600/IMG_9632.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz4mjRT5PVeH4vV5rY3DH-l9Z1Fh4zBALpjF3a8hNPupFLWNGx3jEA4cOdJ7uE2NOBP5ED1xX9XVMN8SNt76Hmgb7iECbEmdC_TI6uaRmjdYZ8Vli_iX1_KoRRho8B-ShnN7KeYZRt9Lg/s400/IMG_9632.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Our hiking friend, <a href="http://gainsandlosseslifethroughsharonseyes.blogspot.com/">Sharon</a>, had recommended a hiking guidebook, <u>Hiking the Carolina Mountains</u>, by Danny Bernstein. This was the first hike we have done which was described in that book. Danny’s route was up the Mount Pisgah Trail to the WLOS TV tower on the summit and back for a 2.6 mile round-trip hike. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCyHLAi5cd8IGRtid0ehmdXahnjL1pzqRMcP2r1r2XV8oOrPoIQ-RpZ3TMHkdmkpqbOTq3Q0fVaHAnVqo3Y5s3JTh_f5qGwDK0JadUgg_geCx7-AnrqGan-nJetzmDQdFHWoI9x4BZLWs/s1600/IMG_9635.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCyHLAi5cd8IGRtid0ehmdXahnjL1pzqRMcP2r1r2XV8oOrPoIQ-RpZ3TMHkdmkpqbOTq3Q0fVaHAnVqo3Y5s3JTh_f5qGwDK0JadUgg_geCx7-AnrqGan-nJetzmDQdFHWoI9x4BZLWs/s400/IMG_9635.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
The Mount Pisgah Trail begins at the “back” of the very large Mount Pisgah Parking Area just off the Blue Ridge Parkway. There are three trailheads at this parking lot--Mount Pisgah Trail, Mountains to the Sea Trail, and the Shut-In Trail.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVwPqDGrGi_I1g4nnjzGdby6PXpwPmKlb0VtBn9vLFw2FO36l1eZjuHyW7QeuqufMXfc7OvWUshWOQG4lkXp2gTIjl1rfwfyFlgkwZVuRaxgJbuleXLbk1_01FbeFl4wGuNpSEkgGZAKA/s1600/View+of+Pisgah+Inn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVwPqDGrGi_I1g4nnjzGdby6PXpwPmKlb0VtBn9vLFw2FO36l1eZjuHyW7QeuqufMXfc7OvWUshWOQG4lkXp2gTIjl1rfwfyFlgkwZVuRaxgJbuleXLbk1_01FbeFl4wGuNpSEkgGZAKA/s400/View+of+Pisgah+Inn.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View of Pisgah Inn from Mt Pisgah Trail</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The Mount Pisgah Trail starts out on a very gentle incline. The trail is wide and a little rocky, but not bad. There are several viewpoints along the way, even with the trees in full leaf. About halfway in our climb to the summit, the trail narrowed and became noticeably steeper and more rocky. Also, by this time, the clouds were really beginning to move in. We pressed on, however, knowing there’d be no views from the top.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic2ol7VTcikV3BcNFZ-3CFeZ2RBQvO7Rqn_GnsDnRoL3KKQKTvtxh9Zg0L-OqcUJ973A50j1Mb64DCffv7Po5TOZoLHzlrQyexWjpYoVDKXWj0PlcQouM7GerHgMZHZAcK7dbU5vBysxU/s1600/View+from+summit+of+Mt+Pisgah.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic2ol7VTcikV3BcNFZ-3CFeZ2RBQvO7Rqn_GnsDnRoL3KKQKTvtxh9Zg0L-OqcUJ973A50j1Mb64DCffv7Po5TOZoLHzlrQyexWjpYoVDKXWj0PlcQouM7GerHgMZHZAcK7dbU5vBysxU/s400/View+from+summit+of+Mt+Pisgah.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from the summit</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
They say you can see a whole lot of stuff from the summit on a clear day, including the Biltmore Estate. Today wasn’t the day. All we saw was fog. We lingered a while on the observation platform then headed back down the mountain to the parking lot.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb0Pfl5S0DPihk3-rAmUA0I3RgX_TaMoEITi85HdXAVvaMtWg1R4YKpro1d9kH3I68ZktJRqwghdjwyh3i2aogju_ly8jb-hOI0ZSEYQO_AMiuu25Npd8Fiay3szGFwWR6rWbpD_E24FU/s1600/View+from+Hunting+lodge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb0Pfl5S0DPihk3-rAmUA0I3RgX_TaMoEITi85HdXAVvaMtWg1R4YKpro1d9kH3I68ZktJRqwghdjwyh3i2aogju_ly8jb-hOI0ZSEYQO_AMiuu25Npd8Fiay3szGFwWR6rWbpD_E24FU/s400/View+from+Hunting+lodge.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from the site of the hunting lodge</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
But, that was only the first half of the hike. Danny then sent us westward on the Mountains to the Sea trail to the site of the Vanderbilts’ hunting lodge at Buck Springs Gap. The lodge is no longer there, but there is an information board with photos of what it once looked like. There are also benches from which to enjoy the view. The view wasn’t much better here than from the top. Since the site of the lodge was so close to the parking lot, we came back on another morning for a better view. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg0BSqeEv9keT-cIGtdNGeX_jVHEMVyhnGyXD1RHCl8l4bnDrvO2VcsF9OlITkhYCWOJlOSDMHiAmpJegE6hqxplancEieR7F3pzmwlx8FjJz16_FcJlmZd8s5FnAS51P2ON_o8U_zuvg/s1600/view+from+hunting+lodge+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg0BSqeEv9keT-cIGtdNGeX_jVHEMVyhnGyXD1RHCl8l4bnDrvO2VcsF9OlITkhYCWOJlOSDMHiAmpJegE6hqxplancEieR7F3pzmwlx8FjJz16_FcJlmZd8s5FnAS51P2ON_o8U_zuvg/s400/view+from+hunting+lodge+2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from the hunting lodge on a clearer day</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Down the hill from the site of the lodge is the springhouse. This is the only building which remains of the lodge complex. By the way, after George Vanderbilt died, Edith spent most of her remaining years at the hunting lodge.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_5rU40tbGfdQgEJ9Stb8uQi94jWD4uRPQdZbtYeYos0rKvUzMbdnkQuu0bKD3itEfhjq8HofZbcTt0yaqnLNKZOEHtEJcnfoc62qUNX_XPC6xTy-NVINncedtFPpYj-EBpHV1EbcLNpw/s1600/Stairs+to+springhouse.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_5rU40tbGfdQgEJ9Stb8uQi94jWD4uRPQdZbtYeYos0rKvUzMbdnkQuu0bKD3itEfhjq8HofZbcTt0yaqnLNKZOEHtEJcnfoc62qUNX_XPC6xTy-NVINncedtFPpYj-EBpHV1EbcLNpw/s400/Stairs+to+springhouse.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stairs leading to the springhouse</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz9aB46vWNdjHcXJ3LvjSatUaqNLtnEhbQys88xkCak3HPzmUF5VBCix0-Dn9kTdW4tXE-96TmK5tDKLdGdwspdD8Vh-zsSUD4LuAjowCU7SCiJC0J3szedh8jEVMIeDK_FJrfQJNgAoo/s1600/Springhouse.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz9aB46vWNdjHcXJ3LvjSatUaqNLtnEhbQys88xkCak3HPzmUF5VBCix0-Dn9kTdW4tXE-96TmK5tDKLdGdwspdD8Vh-zsSUD4LuAjowCU7SCiJC0J3szedh8jEVMIeDK_FJrfQJNgAoo/s400/Springhouse.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
After looking around there we continued westward on the Mountains to the Sea Trail to Pilot Rock Trail which led to the summit of Little Bald Mountain. This once bald knob is mostly filled in with small trees and shrubs.<br />
<br />
Thunder reminds us of pressing business so we hurry back to the car. We missed the rain only by minutes. We were back at the motor home for lunch and a quiet afternoon reading.<br />
<br />
That’s all for today. Thanks for tagging along.<br />Gene and Judihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18174560734474569999noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7250173008611568687.post-11106125414176278352012-08-10T07:53:00.003-05:002012-08-10T07:53:57.026-05:00Pisgah National Forest<br />
For a little change of scenery we loaded up the RV and are now parked at Mount Pisgah Campground on the Blue Ridge Parkway. The Blue Ridge Parkway has 9 campgrounds along its 469 mile length. Mount Pisgah Campground is located at mile 408 toward the southern terminus of the parkway and is across the street from Pisgah Inn. This is typical of a federal campground--no hook-ups at the sites. There is a central water spigot and a dump station. We were totally surprised to find showers in two of the restrooms. Those two restrooms look like they are new or recently renovated.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP7p__vE0_vTVUClf2pyO9MS-guHqzGBM5wjpFdBtARG_XD6FkVe-rZKJ3GuYcQbIiWUjSH6_3ayCXNwmWx7dcPm8_-ifx-zNAcE1Sv8kggW-JeSxsUlApCT-ShGIZ2ahBGmXstMMb1JY/s1600/View+from+BRP.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP7p__vE0_vTVUClf2pyO9MS-guHqzGBM5wjpFdBtARG_XD6FkVe-rZKJ3GuYcQbIiWUjSH6_3ayCXNwmWx7dcPm8_-ifx-zNAcE1Sv8kggW-JeSxsUlApCT-ShGIZ2ahBGmXstMMb1JY/s400/View+from+BRP.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
There are only a few sites large enough to accommodate our RV so we waited until after many schools in the area started and waited until the weekend was over. We arrived early in the afternoon and had no trouble getting a site.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6alXR-Q5aqENq68OSsEQAVg9HhK7D5dCzaEHBXca0LT4u3HU0yM-7E2QgDjEzECRkd-MwV5N1klYtF6b9399odzAVCagpkVfdnlj389ByamCGL-rlhYMjq1REm1RijpPS_KR26kagI9c/s1600/our+site+at+Pisgah+Campground.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6alXR-Q5aqENq68OSsEQAVg9HhK7D5dCzaEHBXca0LT4u3HU0yM-7E2QgDjEzECRkd-MwV5N1klYtF6b9399odzAVCagpkVfdnlj389ByamCGL-rlhYMjq1REm1RijpPS_KR26kagI9c/s400/our+site+at+Pisgah+Campground.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
The campground has four loops--two for tents, one for vans, small trailers, and pop-up campers, and 1 for larger RVs for a total of 128 sites. Because the campground was nowhere near full, we were told we could park anywhere except in the tent only loops. There are both back-in and half-moon pull-thru sites, all of which are paved. Many sites are on such a slope that it would be difficult to get level, especially in the RV loop. We had to move from the first site we chose just for that reason. Most sites are too short for our rig. There may be 10 or so sites that would be suitable for larger RVs.<br />
<br />
<br />
Mount Pisgah is located in the 500,000 acre Pisgah National Forest in western North Carolina near Asheville. There are about 400 miles of trail in Pisgah and these trails are commonly referred to as the “Pisgah 400”. Do you suppose there are folks out there trying to hike all 400 miles?<br />
<br />
We came here for the hiking, of course. There are trails which lead from the campground to Mt. Pisgah Picnic area on the Blue Ridge Parkway and from there on to Mt. Pisgah Trail. Can’t get much more convenient than that. The Mountains to the Sea Trail is also nearby.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhshwgPN-EtD8qJhvjotLdE6secpmwcy8kwmsu_Zhk6JZ0AliyVbwIEGNfIqoWujNXp8NkzCKc7pLZscyUA7ifzx7DJAjyyqbpAN1sHoe5MEwClNw8rP6SUft0UkkrdlAeUiSe1iWbz25o/s1600/Mount+Pisgah+Inn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhshwgPN-EtD8qJhvjotLdE6secpmwcy8kwmsu_Zhk6JZ0AliyVbwIEGNfIqoWujNXp8NkzCKc7pLZscyUA7ifzx7DJAjyyqbpAN1sHoe5MEwClNw8rP6SUft0UkkrdlAeUiSe1iWbz25o/s400/Mount+Pisgah+Inn.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
The campground is located across the street from <a href="http://www.pisgahinn.com/">Pisgah Inn</a> which also has a restaurant and gift shop. I’ve already bought something for our new home at the gift shop and started my Christmas shopping. I expect we’ll be dining at the restaurant one night while we’re here since I forgot to bring the meat for one of our evening meals I had planned for this week.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicKiyy0tUanELPN0Po-gFDo0GEz_hd-KGDHmAIyUc3taiX9ZcFH3NbSIsdjXcbXyBp2ZcRezKl0ucpXA2gRMAYHwnh6NlhHDDvcGMxRJ-BrxNBizXh3deQM9fFhI9EwOBcFHq3VAkdb4w/s1600/Rooms+with+a+view.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicKiyy0tUanELPN0Po-gFDo0GEz_hd-KGDHmAIyUc3taiX9ZcFH3NbSIsdjXcbXyBp2ZcRezKl0ucpXA2gRMAYHwnh6NlhHDDvcGMxRJ-BrxNBizXh3deQM9fFhI9EwOBcFHq3VAkdb4w/s400/Rooms+with+a+view.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rooms with a view</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf5Z1eEG3ceuV02Qs0ydPD9Z9d1EvPFEC3KwRpvZjUUgrT7nmX9lD6HoO7FvSjUUK6Q1y_gCnuoBhwx5XTmNkRNjMJFJ_B_0JBdKQCDU_dUAvZnaQashrlZcsIgz7UVhy-uD1xb5REEJk/s1600/View+from+Pisgah+Inn+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf5Z1eEG3ceuV02Qs0ydPD9Z9d1EvPFEC3KwRpvZjUUgrT7nmX9lD6HoO7FvSjUUK6Q1y_gCnuoBhwx5XTmNkRNjMJFJ_B_0JBdKQCDU_dUAvZnaQashrlZcsIgz7UVhy-uD1xb5REEJk/s400/View+from+Pisgah+Inn+1.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And what a view</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The elevation here is around 5,000 feet. We were hoping to escape the heat at the lower elevations and we’ve not been disappointed. The daytime temperatures have been between the mid 60s to low 70s. The nights are cool enough that we’re too chilly with the windows open. However, like is so common in the mountains, we have gotten rain every day so far. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4a9htI6wTQjVnnfkBKcsEqbtF_aK_fomqU17QVkUBamCVbvM0Qbl9ZqEJCremmmDM2oRhHIJzTbE8TmpZ0v6eQ49DptByFu9kD6sqlY4UgcFvjpVYw9qL8FC5U0jCLenIhDi9N_nVcPg/s1600/Rocking+view.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4a9htI6wTQjVnnfkBKcsEqbtF_aK_fomqU17QVkUBamCVbvM0Qbl9ZqEJCremmmDM2oRhHIJzTbE8TmpZ0v6eQ49DptByFu9kD6sqlY4UgcFvjpVYw9qL8FC5U0jCLenIhDi9N_nVcPg/s400/Rocking+view.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
It has been a nice change of scenery and the hiking has been good. We’re happy campers.<br />
<br />
That’s all for today. Thanks for tagging along.<br />Gene and Judihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18174560734474569999noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7250173008611568687.post-3713796177026192262012-08-07T13:40:00.002-05:002012-08-07T13:40:35.678-05:00Trail Shelters<br />
Whenever we wander by a shelter I usually make a picture then post it along with the story of that hike. One of our faithful followers, <a href="http://rickpaulettervjournal.blogspot.com/">Rick (Rick and Paulette’s RV Travels)</a> usually makes a comment about the shelter. The last shelter I mentioned in the blog was Mt Collins shelter in the Sugarland Mountain Trail post a few days ago. Rick commented that he thought the shelters were a nice thing for hikers.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwsN2Bx1xWpwJ3o-ZsnORrB6BlmnyxJh6Yfxh9Zq4IC7AjqgPHUGONK7rnkgqaVyBjhGec55Yo258Jga94toBTE9b_f43XHFURcZEqtzF9lvUq4v2EpyVP0o3XQA3o67348NuSJWK1J70/s1600/Thunder+Hill+Shelter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwsN2Bx1xWpwJ3o-ZsnORrB6BlmnyxJh6Yfxh9Zq4IC7AjqgPHUGONK7rnkgqaVyBjhGec55Yo258Jga94toBTE9b_f43XHFURcZEqtzF9lvUq4v2EpyVP0o3XQA3o67348NuSJWK1J70/s400/Thunder+Hill+Shelter.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thunder Hill Shelter in Virginia</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
You are absolutely right, Rick. Most hikers really appreciate the shelters. They’re certainly a welcome sight at the end of a long day, especially if it’s been raining. Since Gene and I usually just stop in a shelter for lunch or a short break, I usually don’t say much about the shelters in a post. So I thought I’d just share a few of my thoughts about trail shelters.<br />
<br />
Trail Shelters are not the same as the “huts” in the High Sierras, Colorado, or the White Mountains. Those huts are owned by Clubs or concessionaires and must be reserved and paid for to stay. Trail shelters I’m talking about are structures along trails for overnight stays by hikers and usually require not reservations and are usually free. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpJh67n7i5myUQkw1iMvj4yM1uHKgkq6CzW1tLAZzVnvQUX5-ARzpzIZvrZFXNmO_oQPQQ3R6h6LOHAH5_vJFtgVKg_Atve6VPsVpDocS9LweUjnDwsB6mKmSS5cSqTkflKIl_I-jeDAE/s1600/Blood+Mountain+Shelter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpJh67n7i5myUQkw1iMvj4yM1uHKgkq6CzW1tLAZzVnvQUX5-ARzpzIZvrZFXNmO_oQPQQ3R6h6LOHAH5_vJFtgVKg_Atve6VPsVpDocS9LweUjnDwsB6mKmSS5cSqTkflKIl_I-jeDAE/s400/Blood+Mountain+Shelter.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Blood Mountain Shelter in Georgia</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Trail shelters are not exclusive to the Smokies. Although they can be found across the country, they are more common in the east and particularly along the Appalachian Trail. Perhaps the model for the most common type of shelter was the “lean-to” found in the Adirondacks in New York. Although we’ve seen many sizes and shapes of shelters constructed of various materials, by far the most common are the 3-sided log structures with a wooden sleeping platform, usually large enough to sleep six. Often a second sleeping deck is added above making a “bunk bed” and doubling the sleeping capacity. If you’re lucky, there’ll be a ladder to the upper bunk.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo5Jwf4ggmMzeaQOkjaSfl9fBGYrtSs_We0jADi2xtO1mrMll3_vyuFqPvPdcLS0T7MEiQE9nv7SyLfdVESK-_s3sq0R3DPwTql5o6cEizAHkK4CP1Wjz64P15tesGQnaZ-Nl7mxW_Dfg/s1600/Deer+Lick+Shelters.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo5Jwf4ggmMzeaQOkjaSfl9fBGYrtSs_We0jADi2xtO1mrMll3_vyuFqPvPdcLS0T7MEiQE9nv7SyLfdVESK-_s3sq0R3DPwTql5o6cEizAHkK4CP1Wjz64P15tesGQnaZ-Nl7mxW_Dfg/s400/Deer+Lick+Shelters.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Deer Lick Twin Shelters in Pennsylvania, I think.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Gene and I don’t like to sleep in the shelters. However, when on a long distance hike on the AT, we usually pitch our tent near the shelters. The reason we don’t like to sleep in shelters, besides not wanting to sleep with 8 to 10 snoring strangers, is that shelters are rodent-ridden hovels. The mice are bad enough, but I draw the line with the snakes that come for the mice. Mice are definitely a problem; snakes not so much. I’ve seen a few snakes at shelters, therefore, in my mind, they’re always there just lurking in the shadows waiting for me to fall asleep.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinS54xX-OzdGIEjVXSMZbL3UXTOigH8lCx8XjIVoPA9usLIdPf1rJoPmMkKxImWQ-7s7bZnviPov3uRI2ILUoE0e8GNflxCx867NfEjQzCkpHDKVS1IwGnusaQslxyi6wGmtUSaZXNWjU/s1600/Tumbling+Run+Shelter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="206" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinS54xX-OzdGIEjVXSMZbL3UXTOigH8lCx8XjIVoPA9usLIdPf1rJoPmMkKxImWQ-7s7bZnviPov3uRI2ILUoE0e8GNflxCx867NfEjQzCkpHDKVS1IwGnusaQslxyi6wGmtUSaZXNWjU/s400/Tumbling+Run+Shelter.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tumbling Run twin shelters separate snorers and non snorers.<br />I especially like the clothesline in back.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The shelters offer some advantages when backpacking. The main one, of course, is water. Water is not just everywhere on the trail. The shelters are built near a water source. The water still needs to be treated before drinking, but at least it’s usually easy to get.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5E5A1xpkxWmqXpxwDRNjtFBiRV70wfjMX3qsW2GTJTmUhf96eKaA63viiwi1s7m4D_nYGHTXfsaouagoCKChecXPTX9PSYY0asSiwmEQom8q-MpZYgstLU6Rhhq96jRGqDfcParX0OgU/s1600/Quarry+Gap+Shelter+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5E5A1xpkxWmqXpxwDRNjtFBiRV70wfjMX3qsW2GTJTmUhf96eKaA63viiwi1s7m4D_nYGHTXfsaouagoCKChecXPTX9PSYY0asSiwmEQom8q-MpZYgstLU6Rhhq96jRGqDfcParX0OgU/s400/Quarry+Gap+Shelter+1.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Quarry Gap Shelter in Pennsylvania</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Another advantage is often a picnic table or sitting log which makes cooking easier. Many shelters along the AT now have cooking porches added which gives hikers a dry place to cook if it’s raining. Cooking and eating in the sleeping area is a big “NO-NO” as food odors attract wildlife (bears).<br />
<br />
Some may say the best advantage of being at the shelter is the camaraderie with other hikers. It is nice to have company in the evening to swap tales of the trail.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_pl5CKxhCH3TMABC6i4bN_9-Txz2CqztvOKAkS-2hJccUU5HLhKWKQJo00t-oxCydPSZX5MorQ2NU0RIzzv3mTA1Ww3XrAb2LGsicEkQzATRoSseaaDA3ap6rat9-wJafMbZy9gtRd3w/s1600/privy+100+mi+wild.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_pl5CKxhCH3TMABC6i4bN_9-Txz2CqztvOKAkS-2hJccUU5HLhKWKQJo00t-oxCydPSZX5MorQ2NU0RIzzv3mTA1Ww3XrAb2LGsicEkQzATRoSseaaDA3ap6rat9-wJafMbZy9gtRd3w/s400/privy+100+mi+wild.jpg" width="272" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Privy in 100 mile wilderness in Maine</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I also like camping near the shelter because most have privies. Personally, I hate digging a cat hole.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgntmv6veiPSdZ1z7b_NZyb-nxM-fOf_7xbAm-ikDjJqExKOPbE02dsEbgl0sTwRVAAUJHyg3MtrNKjT0AI-o2lRrCC03EVDopDs2O_ySaB05J5WHHuwSx09f1growtKmr4kWnj4_DhPXg/s1600/Icewater+Springs+Shelter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgntmv6veiPSdZ1z7b_NZyb-nxM-fOf_7xbAm-ikDjJqExKOPbE02dsEbgl0sTwRVAAUJHyg3MtrNKjT0AI-o2lRrCC03EVDopDs2O_ySaB05J5WHHuwSx09f1growtKmr4kWnj4_DhPXg/s400/Icewater+Springs+Shelter.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Icewater Springs Shelter in the Smokies</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The shelters along the AT are the ones we’re most familiar with. The AT Clubs have constructed shelters about 10-15 miles (one day’s walk) apart for the entire 2100 plus miles of the trail. Some of these shelters are getting pretty old now. <a href="http://www.smhclub.org/">Smoky Mountains Hiking Club</a> maintains the AT through the National Park and in recent years renovated the shelters we’ve been stopping in on our day hikes. They’ve added skylights, cooking porches, and replaced the roofs and sleeping platforms. These shelters are very nice now.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDVdfh63RfqKYwj-BH1k76cm5GZOjVK9olOAxTWdQgZ6hA7dRvAspoiJZRj0gXCxh-Jzyi6o4l80R3STduXYTMp5aMt1jkDgK7500gRTmWW1EJMRnFvZUpqnUt9d-pVJkn91U6Rv3ViLQ/s1600/Partnership+Shelter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDVdfh63RfqKYwj-BH1k76cm5GZOjVK9olOAxTWdQgZ6hA7dRvAspoiJZRj0gXCxh-Jzyi6o4l80R3STduXYTMp5aMt1jkDgK7500gRTmWW1EJMRnFvZUpqnUt9d-pVJkn91U6Rv3ViLQ/s400/Partnership+Shelter.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Partnership shelter in Mt Rogers Recreation Area. This one has a shower.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Along the AT it is permissible to pitch a tent in the vicinity of the shelter. In some places there are even wooden tent platforms or gravel pads for tents. There are some exceptions; however, and the Smokies is one of those exceptions. The only time tents are allowed at shelters is during thru-hiker season and the shelter is full. On our first section hike we were heading to Newfound Gap from Springer Mountain. That meant 2 or 3 nights in shelters in the Smokies. I worried from the time I got on the trail at Springer Mountain all the way to Fontana Lake at the edge of the Smokies about staying in a shelter with the mice and snakes. I finally came up with the idea to sleep inside the tent body. Gene used rope to attach the tent to the upper sleeping platform. The tent wasn’t pitched inside the shelter and I wasn’t taking up any more space than I would have with just my sleeping pad. The best thing--nothing could crawl on me.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXKwP0ufiJkNznu-tNS7MqtfFoKT_X5_Duau1a9I-0KYilgwm4_1zdIvCAOVDzzUm9L3RrZ4Kwouf-HORC37NsMNU-wjcydIGW60DlG3RNM6jw8Sr1v-hdDQg3n5N4iIGnfPSr2GKeN_M/s1600/My+nest+at+Derrick+Knob.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXKwP0ufiJkNznu-tNS7MqtfFoKT_X5_Duau1a9I-0KYilgwm4_1zdIvCAOVDzzUm9L3RrZ4Kwouf-HORC37NsMNU-wjcydIGW60DlG3RNM6jw8Sr1v-hdDQg3n5N4iIGnfPSr2GKeN_M/s320/My+nest+at+Derrick+Knob.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My nest safe from creepy crawlies</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Here are a few pictures of shelters we’ve been privileged to pass by. Some we’ve stayed near; some we’ve stayed in.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5KOnIaoQZxXcHzFz3_0p0rKF_-XngEUPIeYFsQghzDU7HmK2f1rHkFHYAeW30QKHHxyyLxlPsU3p-loI5FIlmtT6veIrpuyWNm3lPoKYJVFbxDNO9o878jqH6f_fVVvhGXdUGYaUk2gY/s1600/Ed+Garvey+Shelter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5KOnIaoQZxXcHzFz3_0p0rKF_-XngEUPIeYFsQghzDU7HmK2f1rHkFHYAeW30QKHHxyyLxlPsU3p-loI5FIlmtT6veIrpuyWNm3lPoKYJVFbxDNO9o878jqH6f_fVVvhGXdUGYaUk2gY/s400/Ed+Garvey+Shelter.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ed Garvey Shelter</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Privies are as varied as the shelters. They range from the open air style (great views) to the new ones which must be handicap accessible. We came across this new privy at the Matts Creek shelter in Virginia. The trail crew (all volunteers and all senior citizens) were just putting on the finishing touches. For privies built on federal land, handicap accessible regulations apply. It doesn’t matter that the nearest road is 5 miles away.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj7D3hb33ijVmdS8WN8-J7XtG93Ifdi5QpM2h1JnWzRWhJazaejDm3T4Eoyr6UpU7lL8LisH0sHZt45SAQwEW8nv0QeI0PItnjKDAx4tZDDgGVMpNnXo-vjSzMe3sCwKhY_9N8jRFuyfk/s1600/out+house+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj7D3hb33ijVmdS8WN8-J7XtG93Ifdi5QpM2h1JnWzRWhJazaejDm3T4Eoyr6UpU7lL8LisH0sHZt45SAQwEW8nv0QeI0PItnjKDAx4tZDDgGVMpNnXo-vjSzMe3sCwKhY_9N8jRFuyfk/s400/out+house+2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCIPg15qjxZjtH4BJ0b6Oo1ztApZWSu9xsmV93NmYweh_A1Tmm2hTXHzL33jWlLiy579AE2WhRwtAH0NY13VP6kZcj1wCfpag360e6-kH7TYX0PJkq4wYwW_8TXgcV-Of60r6ntZxTTy8/s1600/new+privy+at+Matts+Creek+Shelter+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCIPg15qjxZjtH4BJ0b6Oo1ztApZWSu9xsmV93NmYweh_A1Tmm2hTXHzL33jWlLiy579AE2WhRwtAH0NY13VP6kZcj1wCfpag360e6-kH7TYX0PJkq4wYwW_8TXgcV-Of60r6ntZxTTy8/s400/new+privy+at+Matts+Creek+Shelter+3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiY8Q4P2ahoFZ8lR9sBA8SQiQs5O3Inq5nuZhKPGeLF-i1IN8UA5aiFWVl_RDIbfL_BhS6ouUJ5x6ZtLw7Ps3Rwf1omWaqcokL9iKsxIurb4LqFtdM-9OOSS2ynpF9Ab0Lht78rgo8irc/s1600/new+privy+at+Matts+Creek+Shelter+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiY8Q4P2ahoFZ8lR9sBA8SQiQs5O3Inq5nuZhKPGeLF-i1IN8UA5aiFWVl_RDIbfL_BhS6ouUJ5x6ZtLw7Ps3Rwf1omWaqcokL9iKsxIurb4LqFtdM-9OOSS2ynpF9Ab0Lht78rgo8irc/s400/new+privy+at+Matts+Creek+Shelter+2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
That’s about all I know about shelters and it's probably way more than you ever wanted to know. Thanks for tagging along.<br />Gene and Judihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18174560734474569999noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7250173008611568687.post-76513111232298618802012-08-04T18:57:00.005-05:002012-08-04T18:57:44.946-05:00A Family Visit<br />
My parents are visiting with us this weekend. It was somewhat of a surprise. Of course, they’re welcome anytime, but I didn’t think they were coming until September. I did get one day notice and was frantic on Thursday trying to prepare for company. They have come to Maryville, Townsend, Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Great Smoky Mountain National Park many, many times over the years, so nothing we did was new to them. Still, it was fun to revisit all the familiar places again. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQgxoEnvh3rg-AhJA_cqXxpus_RhXZhp49cPux0RjIAEmMyhKjXVkzgjj_A-KG10lK81P7t6KkxmA6l9D0iNyXi02w_FSqVC9UKqpW2-_j1lAIK7d6NA6qevU8-EIgKg0g0Urk60LzQCo/s1600/IMG_9611.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQgxoEnvh3rg-AhJA_cqXxpus_RhXZhp49cPux0RjIAEmMyhKjXVkzgjj_A-KG10lK81P7t6KkxmA6l9D0iNyXi02w_FSqVC9UKqpW2-_j1lAIK7d6NA6qevU8-EIgKg0g0Urk60LzQCo/s400/IMG_9611.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
We spent the better part of one day driving around in the Park. We weren’t very lucky with the views because of heavy cloud cover and threatening rain. Everything around Clingmans Dome was in a shroud of cloud. There were no views at all. You never know what the weather will be like at the Dome, so if you’re in the Park, you take a chance and drive up hoping for a view. When we got there, despite the threatening weather conditions, the parking lot was packed. With no views to occupy our time, we did the next best thing--browse around the gift shop. My parents are past the age where they are able to do much walking, so hiking the half mile to the observation tower was not on our list of things to do.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrWk5kNIT5l_1cCXP1FATuENTKKq10V-s5xRGB-WLjom6bvclaoyYeEM9O_vUJsrZM-m4UTso02NxooT44GMiZiSEPX7vpCtMuagw5M3wkfgRWRx-0qaA9_ZM3R87jy7-bgalrz5_2sjo/s1600/IMG_9612.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrWk5kNIT5l_1cCXP1FATuENTKKq10V-s5xRGB-WLjom6bvclaoyYeEM9O_vUJsrZM-m4UTso02NxooT44GMiZiSEPX7vpCtMuagw5M3wkfgRWRx-0qaA9_ZM3R87jy7-bgalrz5_2sjo/s400/IMG_9612.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
On our way back down the mountain, we stopped at Newfound Gap. By the time we got there, the clouds had lifted some and we could actually see something besides fog. This parking lot was nearly full, as well. We’re looking forward to September when the vacation crowd thins out a bit.<br />
<br />
We had our picnic lunch, of course. My mother is the one who taught me to always take a picnic regardless of the weather. So, with storm clouds brewing, I packed the picnic basket. As we sat in the car at Chimneys Picnic area and ate our lunch and watched the rain, we discussed some of the more memorable picnics during my lifetime. My dad and I both agreed it was a toss up between the ice storm somewhere in Georgia one year when we were on our way to Florida and the wind storm in Ontario the year we were going to Niagara Falls. <br />
<br />
During the course of their visit, we also made a trip to Pigeon Forge. As a rule, I try to avoid both Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg. These gateway communities to the Smokies are geared to the tourist and are just too crowded for my taste. Besides, I’m not much of a shopper and I’d far rather have a picnic in the park than eat in a crowded, noisy restaurant. However, my mother is a shopper and was delighted to just “stop by Pigeon Forge for a few minutes”. We haven’t been to Pigeon Forge in a several years, and were surprised to find many of the outlet stores closed. Gene asked about so many shops being out of business and the clerk told him that business has been going downhill for several years now and that this summer has been the worst so far. Even though I don’t like to go there myself, that news was a little sad to hear.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKVb3ZgRnq5cZtKgm8KtNO5WFhoMmTjKkFBS7OUgA5GZp7CsrD6f1DEEliA6VOw2PGWLOhKLWVo4ePtynXSqdqrHLQG6zsxzfbj1bZltgTq81CjQKost1XI8wEv64LFxlf4oJX20i9004/s1600/IMG_9614.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKVb3ZgRnq5cZtKgm8KtNO5WFhoMmTjKkFBS7OUgA5GZp7CsrD6f1DEEliA6VOw2PGWLOhKLWVo4ePtynXSqdqrHLQG6zsxzfbj1bZltgTq81CjQKost1XI8wEv64LFxlf4oJX20i9004/s400/IMG_9614.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
We also went to Gatlinburg. I don’t like going there, but it’s because of the traffic. I sorta enjoy just walking around sampling fudge, watching the people, and browsing some of the higher end shops. Since the traffic is always so horrific, I usually try to avoid Gatlinburg at all costs. Mother, however, wanted to eat at Bubba Gumps. Gene and I have never eaten there so were anxious to check it out. In our opinion, the shrimp was good, but not outstanding. It was a fun place to eat, though, and we’ll probably take other guests there in the future. <br />
<br />
We’ve also done plenty of sitting at home, drinking coffee, eating, and talking. From the looks of my refrigerator we’ve got plenty of eating to do yet. Needless to say, this has been a very busy weekend.<br />
<br />
That’s my story for today. Thanks for tagging along.<br />Gene and Judihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18174560734474569999noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7250173008611568687.post-10385684627851853442012-08-02T15:37:00.001-05:002012-08-02T15:37:57.081-05:00Sugarland Mountain Trail<br />
I think I’ve said before that we love the high elevation spruce fir forest in the Smokies. Any of the trails accessible from Clingmans Dome Road are among our favorites. The Appalachian Trail runs along the crest, but the numerous other trails that junction with the AT or with the road are also nice hikes. Of course, all of these trails except for the AT are heading downhill which means (unless you’ve run a shuttle) the last half of your hike is an uphill climb. Some things are just worth it.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHFLKd4GCM8Yd8WtaEbTJ3EXnG4Tgyb6TYSFj8Ju5gpxoGi7ssQYxyJiYxWfYvo16NXhOiQ_pMK1KXaz9UGdKK1efHzg1XfuWuewu6Pg54dsZpXH0C6OPsUY474rK8n-5FKtwjMO65cTM/s1600/blackberries.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHFLKd4GCM8Yd8WtaEbTJ3EXnG4Tgyb6TYSFj8Ju5gpxoGi7ssQYxyJiYxWfYvo16NXhOiQ_pMK1KXaz9UGdKK1efHzg1XfuWuewu6Pg54dsZpXH0C6OPsUY474rK8n-5FKtwjMO65cTM/s400/blackberries.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bear breakfast</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Sugarland Mountain Trail runs for 12 miles from the Appalachian Trail near Mt. Collins Shelter down, down, down to the parking lot at Laurel Falls Trail on Little River Road. If your knees can stand that much downhill, hiking through from top to bottom would be a real Smokies experience. Starting at 6000 feet in the lush, wet rain forest zone and dropping down through every forest type to the bottom at 2300 feet would give the hiker a good sample of the entire park. Not to mention some great views, a backcountry shelter and a campsite. You’ve got it all in one hike.<br />
<br />
We didn’t do that, however. We started at the top and hiked down about three miles then turned around and hiked back up to the car.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7qAvO08jaNodkA_hnzyOpjx7-ibB6fRlDi4phjflj3ueBFGKeWyCk_V1IkHPL33v8wsnD5dTFeB1L1l-HMYXsKrixmlj0OXMDAIiPALQa6tKrkkWzWSK2OKpWjbPp4bQoPxAW17VOUBg/s1600/IMG_9589.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7qAvO08jaNodkA_hnzyOpjx7-ibB6fRlDi4phjflj3ueBFGKeWyCk_V1IkHPL33v8wsnD5dTFeB1L1l-HMYXsKrixmlj0OXMDAIiPALQa6tKrkkWzWSK2OKpWjbPp4bQoPxAW17VOUBg/s400/IMG_9589.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
The parking area on Clingmans Dome Road is at the Fork Ridge trailhead. The parking area is really a couple of small pull outs which will accommodate about 6 cars. There is a signpost almost directly across the street from the Fork Ridge Trail which directs you to the Appalachian Trail. This short access trail goes right up to the AT where we turned left, or Southbound. Sugarland Mountain Trail intersects the AT in two-tenths of a mile.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl4dVy4FtydwtvCpxo5OT92tCJ2WceHIkFGNIu3248fdcDwZqYCyynAIs7x-aYCo7-Ylob0dwkNW_I_YyY4MINwg7zLUJ2j70OrixWBLeaSJbV3cHmjVN9m-qMvFKbn40fBv6rlUXyNK8/s1600/IMG_9592.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl4dVy4FtydwtvCpxo5OT92tCJ2WceHIkFGNIu3248fdcDwZqYCyynAIs7x-aYCo7-Ylob0dwkNW_I_YyY4MINwg7zLUJ2j70OrixWBLeaSJbV3cHmjVN9m-qMvFKbn40fBv6rlUXyNK8/s400/IMG_9592.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
We had gotten an early start so were ready to start hiking by 8:30. We were surprised to feel the nip in the air when we got out of the car at 6000 ft. We could actually see our breath! What a relief from the oppressive heat down below. I love the early morning in the Smokies with the sun beams shining through the trees and the fog.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqCBVHqS6FqexSE20fEhJyfgEWGiOSo3Wb8Jh8LaUh_od90ohl5WbZfjB3uOp9FwcGiudvDfET9xe3daAczqdJfScMWOpSVLefFV67A6KbGyq3bZLPAFCC5CmQ8TinprHNtIG55PxKAA8/s1600/AT+near+Collins+Shelter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqCBVHqS6FqexSE20fEhJyfgEWGiOSo3Wb8Jh8LaUh_od90ohl5WbZfjB3uOp9FwcGiudvDfET9xe3daAczqdJfScMWOpSVLefFV67A6KbGyq3bZLPAFCC5CmQ8TinprHNtIG55PxKAA8/s400/AT+near+Collins+Shelter.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
It was a treat to see trail blazes along the short distance we hiked on the AT. The Appalachian Trail is the only trail inside the Park which is blazed. It was comforting seeing those white rectangles guiding our way.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE1oQWRAkkeOBQZ38sBevRP446FKekvKVo7q3YGD3QPOY2g2jAvkLxj9bDlEMq6Zxje44PB3QpbjnlXXLFXxlUATMmwuAYOAG_i76b3-qJS_HCy3FHQmGv_rIy669PNKh-DZgg2xM0tRw/s1600/British+soldiers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE1oQWRAkkeOBQZ38sBevRP446FKekvKVo7q3YGD3QPOY2g2jAvkLxj9bDlEMq6Zxje44PB3QpbjnlXXLFXxlUATMmwuAYOAG_i76b3-qJS_HCy3FHQmGv_rIy669PNKh-DZgg2xM0tRw/s400/British+soldiers.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">British Soldier moss. I think it's really a lichen, not a moss.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
A third of a mile down Sugarland Mountain Trail we passed a side trail to Mt. Collins Shelter. We wanted to stop in there because it has been renovated since the last time we were here, but we could hear voices indicating the shelter was occupied at least by two people. We decided to leave them in peace and save our visit for later.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBcgj0BPxoaYOIlh42ra_vZcic_nanMf949Z5BBRWfA1LJOtHYO7Y_XhciTNvcJ5eLy7li82_NZSNpsjnylFPtQAUURbXK7oMIFrQbe5tDHuIIXdr5tM3xglFjNdFR7Jri0iUlWqtvoGE/s1600/Collins+shelter+spring.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBcgj0BPxoaYOIlh42ra_vZcic_nanMf949Z5BBRWfA1LJOtHYO7Y_XhciTNvcJ5eLy7li82_NZSNpsjnylFPtQAUURbXK7oMIFrQbe5tDHuIIXdr5tM3xglFjNdFR7Jri0iUlWqtvoGE/s400/Collins+shelter+spring.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Another tenth of a mile down the trail brought us to another side trail to a piped spring. This is the water source for the shelter and it was flowing nicely after last night’s thunderstorms. A tenth of a mile doesn’t sound like far, but carrying a couple quarts of water uphill can make it seem like a long way.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic9F6Tx6irlYcykU3OtZ3swiZpt1nXW_pJXOei7gL1LRNUNTAncDfi3gG4RXT1M8GJcbt2A7-2PXN1RrptoR-8VM4rEi1ivZQ1T5loogjH_ToTk15MlpVHt9Ksy6ccoRZiwpnP6WRgtUg/s1600/IMG_9600.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic9F6Tx6irlYcykU3OtZ3swiZpt1nXW_pJXOei7gL1LRNUNTAncDfi3gG4RXT1M8GJcbt2A7-2PXN1RrptoR-8VM4rEi1ivZQ1T5loogjH_ToTk15MlpVHt9Ksy6ccoRZiwpnP6WRgtUg/s400/IMG_9600.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
We continued our journey downhill. Instead of hiking distance today we were hiking time. After our long hike on Monday, we wanted something much shorter today. We had determined that we would hike for two hours then turn around. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfLXXVHzXWhdVsa1_ZnL4FmNd9TdGbKVVoVWmI9qeomc9Xmi1bi4wPAPXzW5mafQOl18jtv5isv_q-RCt19amEAA2tyKlR68z-IQzHTgojteo_lv3-5klx10FWOtIFpzTuuFLk3QPLAdk/s1600/Mt+Collins+shelter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfLXXVHzXWhdVsa1_ZnL4FmNd9TdGbKVVoVWmI9qeomc9Xmi1bi4wPAPXzW5mafQOl18jtv5isv_q-RCt19amEAA2tyKlR68z-IQzHTgojteo_lv3-5klx10FWOtIFpzTuuFLk3QPLAdk/s400/Mt+Collins+shelter.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
On our way back, we took the short side trail to Mt Collins Shelter. This shelter, like the others in the Park, has been renovated. The overnight guests had vacated the place and we had it all to ourselves. We took a long lunch break here before hiking the last half mile to the car. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_6uCH_fnMmEDTbthr3VKV6cwzHwCys4dQT9Y-Rxs6UYiOF8Xn17fL_VPxc-hA9RZU-VGDOEryNGuxXJhLGRy46J5Zy6Yuvuxg15pFRdZTJdIQtp1kT7o_PpSZo3GFf-ErdAq99Ye1GKk/s1600/pink+turtlehead+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_6uCH_fnMmEDTbthr3VKV6cwzHwCys4dQT9Y-Rxs6UYiOF8Xn17fL_VPxc-hA9RZU-VGDOEryNGuxXJhLGRy46J5Zy6Yuvuxg15pFRdZTJdIQtp1kT7o_PpSZo3GFf-ErdAq99Ye1GKk/s400/pink+turtlehead+2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We found a large patch of these pink turtleheads</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
It was a short hike, especially compared to the drive to get to the trailhead, but oh so worth the effort. The temperatures were cool, the sun bright in a beautiful blue sky, and the trail, though a little wet from last night’s rain, was delightful. I could do this hike, or one like it, every day of the week.<br />
<br />
That’s all for today. Thanks for tagging along.<br />Gene and Judihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18174560734474569999noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7250173008611568687.post-91500159711645801572012-07-31T15:52:00.000-05:002012-07-31T15:52:02.041-05:00Gregory Ridge Trail<br />
The ladies hiking extravaganza is now officially over. With families and other commitments, the ladies came and went at various times during the month. Sue hung on to the very end and she and Garnet spent the end of last week on a backpack out of Deep Creek. We had invited them over for dinner Saturday night to celebrate a great month of hiking. Sue and Garnet hiked every hike that was planned and logged right at 100 miles for the month. They were both tired and hungry Saturday night, but spirits were high.<br />
<br />
Gene was searching through the guidebook for a hike to do on Monday. With the heat of summer it is hard to find something suitable that isn’t at high elevation. When he came upon what the guidebook suggests as one of the finest hikes in the Smokies, how could we pass that up?<br />
<br />
Gregory Ridge Trail is 5 miles in length and gains about 2500 feet. Gregory Ridge Trail junctions with Gregory Bald Trail at Rich Gap. At that point, it is only six-tenths of a mile from Gregory Bald via Gregory Bald Trail. That was another 500 feet in elevation gain, but we were so close, what the heck. We had to go up there. Then there was a little side trail Gene wanted to explore which added at least another half mile to his day. No wonder we were tired by the time we got back to the car.<br />
<br />
Our trailhead is at the end of Forge Creek Road, a gravel road which is off the Cades Cove Loop Road. The distance from our house is not all that great--only about 35 miles. However, traffic on Cades Cove Loop Road was SLOW going and it seemed to take forever to get to the trailhead.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHFckjRvMWrbvjRzEWcsxDivgwkfphrIBvBne7x6k2Ne5zJVTY-ImLkOWSDllzyCVlu0HoHcf76oJfnFZJeMAnyRAdLySiZIPzI_yUX9zH46QGRyhaawiWmD9u1OCzIe9MS5a5v5t4ozM/s1600/IMG_9562.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHFckjRvMWrbvjRzEWcsxDivgwkfphrIBvBne7x6k2Ne5zJVTY-ImLkOWSDllzyCVlu0HoHcf76oJfnFZJeMAnyRAdLySiZIPzI_yUX9zH46QGRyhaawiWmD9u1OCzIe9MS5a5v5t4ozM/s400/IMG_9562.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
The first mile of the trail is almost flat through a beautiful hardwood forest with the sound of Forge Creek tumbling close by. We crossed Forge Creek a total of three times. The first two crossings were on footbridges. At one time there had been a footbridge at the third crossing, but it has been washed away. Remnants of the bridge could be seen down stream.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisYIut4WbeVA-m4Vwgpo6F_5PRCpVVmbRNBZt2B71ocYMwlEzDUOAhTu1YpktOkmwsLIrkiY48ysIIERGFvXDHBCkDM8NgwBhHVME4Zf6nKJPOWsOjc7k-1kYY6mGOezGs5UWYVP572bU/s1600/Alcohol+stoves+campsite+12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisYIut4WbeVA-m4Vwgpo6F_5PRCpVVmbRNBZt2B71ocYMwlEzDUOAhTu1YpktOkmwsLIrkiY48ysIIERGFvXDHBCkDM8NgwBhHVME4Zf6nKJPOWsOjc7k-1kYY6mGOezGs5UWYVP572bU/s400/Alcohol+stoves+campsite+12.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Just past this last creek crossing, we came to backcountry campsite 12. If you were backpacking and forgot your stove, have no worries. There was a collection of old cans suitable for alcohol stoves left at the campsite marker. This campsite looked like it could accommodate 4-6 tents in its upper and lower sections. The upper section was much more appealing than the lower section.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinshAUlTGwDrFkb5SdW29apVV8hEFXTIbSkUF2g0RbOe28L6ipyQmz7AiyIVNQR6e9b0Qf-h2Qdkxsk-uJdfvXU5aYyuCGx1NTUZF2-wmQ4ikWhrY9wC1hiQTOmKpJOXWS3PP8ScEDar0/s1600/View+from+trail.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinshAUlTGwDrFkb5SdW29apVV8hEFXTIbSkUF2g0RbOe28L6ipyQmz7AiyIVNQR6e9b0Qf-h2Qdkxsk-uJdfvXU5aYyuCGx1NTUZF2-wmQ4ikWhrY9wC1hiQTOmKpJOXWS3PP8ScEDar0/s400/View+from+trail.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
After the third creek crossing the trail narrows and begins a more noticeable uphill grade. For the next three miles it was a steady climb, but not horribly steep. We plodded along, stopping for breaks occasionally and to take in what little views we could get through the trees.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL0N9cK31lNV5VkylHvvZVYE4rr48OTvfD7yOirGSCULEQ0Zt5DbfuyJR1rWcOon5CnAhyud-rHwH7jY6-o9EkyRxGVkMFs2WFgQPuJ7kniGd2js27AyfLE3uOEojguY0j72YSgOjrGpo/s1600/IMG_9577.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL0N9cK31lNV5VkylHvvZVYE4rr48OTvfD7yOirGSCULEQ0Zt5DbfuyJR1rWcOon5CnAhyud-rHwH7jY6-o9EkyRxGVkMFs2WFgQPuJ7kniGd2js27AyfLE3uOEojguY0j72YSgOjrGpo/s400/IMG_9577.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Somewhere about a mile from the top is where we found the buck. He was happy as a lark grazing in the middle of the trail. He noticed us right away, but apparently felt we weren’t a threat. He continued to nibble away at the grass along the edge of the trail until he slowing wandered off into the woods. It’s always thrilling to see wildlife up close doing their wildlife thing. This was the highlight of our day.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjB66pZpmiQ1zdycIkxAMRwEeY68LZMODawaWuOFNyOJNCq9I4h0nuBupM6N2hXSjdq9Q6MIiA6qB29gO9FFocKcc-BGbkgMshc2ntwaZUKz4JzqiLUlKPtzPuGtw7_VHGlxz_N2uinYI/s1600/Buck+Gregory+Ridge+Trail+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjB66pZpmiQ1zdycIkxAMRwEeY68LZMODawaWuOFNyOJNCq9I4h0nuBupM6N2hXSjdq9Q6MIiA6qB29gO9FFocKcc-BGbkgMshc2ntwaZUKz4JzqiLUlKPtzPuGtw7_VHGlxz_N2uinYI/s400/Buck+Gregory+Ridge+Trail+1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSLJd-rEMMWB6m9htso2-P7j2SAUIei8SDhPFr_buT1_7GH-tkm-nVUAMAMKXQzdJjzmoeiXw0C9bDGb_2nyYJO2qNd6QxGMZGqC8M3WWNfrR8uSDWoj-mAczAT8iYCD_EiB20LBpFQuM/s1600/Buck+Gregory+Ridge+Trail+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSLJd-rEMMWB6m9htso2-P7j2SAUIei8SDhPFr_buT1_7GH-tkm-nVUAMAMKXQzdJjzmoeiXw0C9bDGb_2nyYJO2qNd6QxGMZGqC8M3WWNfrR8uSDWoj-mAczAT8iYCD_EiB20LBpFQuM/s400/Buck+Gregory+Ridge+Trail+2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Gregory Ridge Trail ends at the junction with Gregory Bald Trail. At the junction, Gregory Bald Trail goes left for 2 miles and ends at the Appalachian Trail or it goes right for six-tenths of a mile to Gregory Bald. The Bald was our destination for lunch. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin8c1PAuPepzah4br_0GOdhGnnNIPw76rC77Kj3i_-VC-imbMJ6xQmT-r3tmtg22tFiXtFf6teCm6qiQ4C5Dz2FgdLeyCDBHQYInmzoeCWExCzuMYMhW92postBXNssA5VGBIZgYQ4mqM/s1600/Cades+Cove+from+Gregory+Bald.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin8c1PAuPepzah4br_0GOdhGnnNIPw76rC77Kj3i_-VC-imbMJ6xQmT-r3tmtg22tFiXtFf6teCm6qiQ4C5Dz2FgdLeyCDBHQYInmzoeCWExCzuMYMhW92postBXNssA5VGBIZgYQ4mqM/s400/Cades+Cove+from+Gregory+Bald.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
The views were not outstanding off the Bald because of the haze, but we could see Cades Cove and we found a place to sit with that view for lunch. The big draw for hikers to the Bald are the flame azalea in June. Of course, that all gone now, but the blueberries were just coming on. In another couple weeks we could probably fight the bears for a share. At 5000 feet, the temperature was not uncomfortable on the Bald, but the sun was beaming down so we didn’t linger very long. After about 20 minutes we were ready to find some shade.<br />
<br />
If we had continued on Gregory Bald Trail and gone on over the Bald, we would have shortly come to the junction with Wolf Ridge Trail. It is possible to make a loop hike using Gregory Bald, Wolf Ridge, Twentymile Loop and Long Hungry Ridge Trails and this was one of the backpacking trips the ladies had planned. However, there has been severe storm damage along Wolf Ridge and Twentymile Loop Trails making them almost impassable. Will save that for another time.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKbHKtK11DtmahORtbMA2yCApG7TYzZPAxgiiYOWdLOMGexRuCPCEj3vFJ6jC98pm75N_aqQV8hbGbZcdHivSToGZ70K8gH0-YbJt5WO8QB2n6SoJf6jnZ9cKEgYf3HeXyYZrTdVCvlhQ/s1600/Gregory+Bald+July+2012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKbHKtK11DtmahORtbMA2yCApG7TYzZPAxgiiYOWdLOMGexRuCPCEj3vFJ6jC98pm75N_aqQV8hbGbZcdHivSToGZ70K8gH0-YbJt5WO8QB2n6SoJf6jnZ9cKEgYf3HeXyYZrTdVCvlhQ/s400/Gregory+Bald+July+2012.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Gene is an old hiker and has been hiking the Smokies for many years. In times past, there were more shelters in the backcountry than there are now. He remembered there being a shelter somewhere between Gregory Bald and the trail junction at Rich Gap. He wanted to find the site of that old shelter. Luckily, there was a sign prohibiting horse travel on a very faint trail about halfway between the Bald and the trail junction. He took a chance and followed that little used trail. I stayed behind on the main trail. It seemed a lot less snaky. He found the site of the old shelter. All evidence of the shelter was gone, but the piped spring was still there and flowing with water.<br />
<br />
With lunch and the exploring done, we were ready to head back down the mountain. The trip down was uneventful, but seemed like it was about twice as long as the uphill climb. We stopped at campsite 12 for a break and were grateful for the more gentle grade of the last two miles. The car was a welcome site, not only for it seat, but also for its air conditioning. <br />
<br />
I’m not ready to declare this the finest hike in the Smokies, but it sure ranks up there close to the top. We already have this hike on our list for winter. It was obvious there are some incredible views from the trail if you didn’t have to look around the leaves.<br />
<br />
That’s it for today. Thanks for tagging along.<br />Gene and Judihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18174560734474569999noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7250173008611568687.post-82850082029040750442012-07-29T15:33:00.001-05:002012-07-29T15:33:16.445-05:00Home Base<br />
I think we’re pretty well settled into our little condo in Maryville, TN. We have all our furniture bought, at least for the time being. As we continue our travels, I’m sure I’ll be picking up what Gene calls “dust magnets” to sit atop the furniture or hang from the walls for a more homey feel. <br />
<br />
We’ve been asked by family and friends if we’re going to sell the RV. Our answer is a resounding “NO”. We have no plans to give up RVing. We’ve only scratched the surface of the fabulous places to visit. We fully intend to spend at least 4 months each summer traveling. Besides that, we hope to take a short trip each month or 6-weeks during the remainder of the year.<br />
<br />
Unfortunately, we can’t park our RV in our driveway. It is in storage at a campground near Maryville. We have easy access for any regular monthly maintenance that needs to be done and it’s close at hand for a quick get-away anytime the travel bug bits. <br />
<br />
It’s true--we’re no longer full-time RVers, but, just as so many folks who have been on the road for a number of years have said, change happens. We were ready for what we think of as a “home base” and are glad we made the move.<br />
<br />
We were talking with friends Tony and Diana the other day and Tony reminded me that I had not updated the blog to reflect our new lifestyle. Thanks, Tony, for the reminder. I’ve done that now and for more detail on some of the reasons for a “home base” and why we chose Maryville, Tennessee check out the Home Base tab under the header photo.<br />
<br />
We already think of this place as “home”--both the condo and the community. We feel like we have the best of both worlds now. We’re looking forward to making friends and becoming involved with the Maryville community. And, we excited about exploring America on extended trips during the summer and finding new hiking trails around East Tennessee, Western North Carolina, and North Georgia.<br />
<br />
Life is good no matter where or what you call “home”.<br />Gene and Judihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18174560734474569999noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7250173008611568687.post-22109147471139029192012-07-27T15:55:00.000-05:002012-07-27T15:55:18.718-05:00Forney Ridge Trail<br />
With the heat of summer, we keep looking for high elevation trails for our hiking adventures. It seems we are always drawn to the trails off Clingmans Dome Road in the Smokies. It was a toss-up between Forney Ridge and Forney Creek. I voted for Forney Ridge because it was a little less steep and because it went over Andrews Bald. We didn’t want to do the entire length of the trail down and back up again, so our plan was to hike down for as long as we wanted then turn around and CLIMB back up to the car.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzhvLNzw1wjMPGu24ML-S2nfUN_IW-G4-sfwSR2nLBYRtq6RnXSzsUiCjjfGjJ9pmshCLxRgO3KNkrmn9Cojkg19v5Jm2327OARazhb7pNBEHYIVYRYqqVxRLZd2Vn3i4-fsCT785MIxc/s1600/Pink+turtlehead.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzhvLNzw1wjMPGu24ML-S2nfUN_IW-G4-sfwSR2nLBYRtq6RnXSzsUiCjjfGjJ9pmshCLxRgO3KNkrmn9Cojkg19v5Jm2327OARazhb7pNBEHYIVYRYqqVxRLZd2Vn3i4-fsCT785MIxc/s400/Pink+turtlehead.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Found this pink turtlehead at the beginning of our hike</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Forney Ridge trailhead is at the end of Clingmans Dome Road. There is a huge parking lot, but during summer months it fills up fast, particularly on a clear day. We arrived about 9 AM and there were still plenty of spaces to park.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRcZ0IiDrHbGaGd7D5Xr4dmVSahiuDJiYqiM8LUtCrePPiDXqABTfMBcma7pMWZQa2I_TRysEBmcYJHXhmvt_J_L2CPuNTXgsqqmVJ5gZpLGH57a4XYqmzN_BSaY7-uHB57mrRbCdb52Y/s1600/IMG_9524.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRcZ0IiDrHbGaGd7D5Xr4dmVSahiuDJiYqiM8LUtCrePPiDXqABTfMBcma7pMWZQa2I_TRysEBmcYJHXhmvt_J_L2CPuNTXgsqqmVJ5gZpLGH57a4XYqmzN_BSaY7-uHB57mrRbCdb52Y/s400/IMG_9524.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Forney Ridge is a popular trail as far as Andrews Bald. Beyond the Bald, the trail is often deserted as are most of the trails in the Smokies even during the peak summer season. It’s always amazing to me that we can spend a whole day on a hike and never see anyone. Smoky Mountains is the most visited of all the National Parks, but most of those visitors never get off the pavement. There are a few who venture down a trail to a waterfall or other feature, but rarely hike more than 3 miles from the road. Even though the Smokies has millions of visitors each year, if you’re looking for solitude, this is the place to find it.<br />
<br />
The 1.8 miles to Andrews Bald has been refurbished recently and is now a very fine trail. We hiked this section earlier in the summer and I posted a couple photos of the trail in that <a href="http://blueroadstohikingtrails.blogspot.com/2012/05/andrews-bald.html">blog entry</a>. The major draw for Andrews Bald are the azaleas which bloom in late June or early July. That’s past now, so we saw very few people on this section of trail. It offered for us just what we wanted--a cool place to hike.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXjJm905JQIa4aFqaZFEVoGdqAwJr9NSI5tOQaKFyZDS3jeGhpob8OxWRsqVQgbZJVUO6sVJ5wib_oI-EIXcOcU3rChyR33JqRpHYScOoD4K0CTW8XkskG-uLUljwM2e8Jk8k41H6ayZk/s1600/Turk's+Cap+lily.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXjJm905JQIa4aFqaZFEVoGdqAwJr9NSI5tOQaKFyZDS3jeGhpob8OxWRsqVQgbZJVUO6sVJ5wib_oI-EIXcOcU3rChyR33JqRpHYScOoD4K0CTW8XkskG-uLUljwM2e8Jk8k41H6ayZk/s400/Turk's+Cap+lily.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
We didn’t have azaleas to ooh and aah about, but there were a few flowers. Most notably were the Turk’s Cap lilies. I love to see these on the trail.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmwzsSqQYki9IfYxSyus-OLDsvEtxolSG1AIXHOU4HhcyZPAT4B4p7xRnKtL3tnE2uwrTXhztQHJXNShmtYGu1qTycItMz3nj4-lo36EnHW_qbt6amS9MvaoaJVespMOFw3_U8EviIWUU/s1600/Blue+bead+lily.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmwzsSqQYki9IfYxSyus-OLDsvEtxolSG1AIXHOU4HhcyZPAT4B4p7xRnKtL3tnE2uwrTXhztQHJXNShmtYGu1qTycItMz3nj4-lo36EnHW_qbt6amS9MvaoaJVespMOFw3_U8EviIWUU/s400/Blue+bead+lily.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
We also saw blue bead lily. In the spring this has a yellow-green bell-shaped flower which is pretty, but I think I like the bright blue bead just as well. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyT-IjF4bYmBpGFyaZj4_6NnfNP1GuhH_W_hmqLX3hm4YgTWRI-DWcH1VThqnEu2y8tUAQYGP4ena-m4pTY__xx0z1VtFG_vl4CwiC0iawxVItRi3w35isvedNGH0ei40-D0IbOIEHeZk/s1600/Filmy+Angelica%252C+parsnip+family.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyT-IjF4bYmBpGFyaZj4_6NnfNP1GuhH_W_hmqLX3hm4YgTWRI-DWcH1VThqnEu2y8tUAQYGP4ena-m4pTY__xx0z1VtFG_vl4CwiC0iawxVItRi3w35isvedNGH0ei40-D0IbOIEHeZk/s400/Filmy+Angelica%252C+parsnip+family.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
There was also plenty Filmy Angelica. It’s in the parsnip family and the bees seem to love it. I kept my distance.<br />
<br />
Since the bad storm a few weeks ago, we’ve noticed several blowdowns along the trails we’ve been hiking. If we see something that needs attention, we don’t mind taking care of it so long as it’s not a major job. Gene often carries a bow saw for this sort of light trail maintenance. He didn’t have his saw on this hike, so got out the Swiss Army knife to cut back this dead branch that was hanging over the trail right at eye level.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWWZFWJ09v3qVLW6n1hLJUvz3H58Ao5VaPyGLb5LD0qc4x004LJAq6MnZpk19YxktUfqr6t_UEZ9HLEimuwhNt2hyphenhyphenl3WesrKHLnvs0bbcwVIF9DBBWmb2rHaYiGkkocKhLDwAHISkHIYk/s1600/trail+maintenance.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWWZFWJ09v3qVLW6n1hLJUvz3H58Ao5VaPyGLb5LD0qc4x004LJAq6MnZpk19YxktUfqr6t_UEZ9HLEimuwhNt2hyphenhyphenl3WesrKHLnvs0bbcwVIF9DBBWmb2rHaYiGkkocKhLDwAHISkHIYk/s400/trail+maintenance.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
The trail is a steady downhill from Clingmans Dome Road with just a slight uphill to Andrews Bald. After crossing the Bald the trail drops steadily and continues to the junction with Springhouse Branch Trail. We went down a little way, but not too far. I think we were both thinking about that climb to get back to the car. Also, it had rained recently and the trail was pretty wet. A steep, wet trail required more work than what we were willing to give. We went back to the Bald, spread out a poncho to sit on and just chilled out for a while. Not a bad way to spend the day.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie5s1Q2vXYJpGGOxtdgKs07lSkgvX6HU1lwL9vhGTFJ52_VUvCOqLor5JCfDKr6OuIRRS4auySa3AuDIku7-1d43JuPEenx62EhVq3Oygf8mpR13GV8A2Eoy4581Uz155rDi_PXNt43gE/s1600/IMG_9543.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie5s1Q2vXYJpGGOxtdgKs07lSkgvX6HU1lwL9vhGTFJ52_VUvCOqLor5JCfDKr6OuIRRS4auySa3AuDIku7-1d43JuPEenx62EhVq3Oygf8mpR13GV8A2Eoy4581Uz155rDi_PXNt43gE/s400/IMG_9543.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Forney Ridge Trail runs a total distance of 5.5 miles between Clingmans Dome Road and Springhouse Branch Trail. It’s possible to make a loop hike combining Forney Ridge, Springhouse Branch, and Forney Creek Trails. That’s about a 20 mile hike and not something I want to do in a day. Luckily, there are several backcountry campsites along Forney Creek Trail making this a nice backpacking loop.<br />
<br />
That’s it for today. Thanks for tagging along.Gene and Judihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18174560734474569999noreply@blogger.com2