Highlights: Appalachian Trail, bald summit, great views, wildflowers, wildlife Distance: 6.1 mile loop Elevation change: 1,200 feet Difficulty level: Strenuous Trailhead Parking: Wiggins Springs Road (route 755) becomes Hog Camp Gap Road (Fire Road 48), parking at the AT crossing at Hog Camp Gap. For additional parking, continue past Hog Camp Gap for .25 miles […]
Cole Mountain Loop Read More »
Highlights: grassy summit, views, fall foliage, Appalachian Trail, Nantahala National Forest Distance: 3.6 mile out and back Elevation change: 1,000 feet Difficulty level: Moderate Trailhead Parking: Wayah Gap picnic area on Wayah Road, about 14 miles west of Franklin NC Website: AllTrails Beer Pairings: Lazy Hiker Brewing: Springer Fever pilsner and 20 Mile IPA The
Siler Bald via the AT Read More »
Highlights: bald summit, wildflowers, wildlife, great views, hike-in lodge Distance: 6.6 mile out and back Elevation change: 1,850 feet Difficulty level: Difficult Trailhead Parking: 19001 NC-209 Hot Springs, NC Website: Cabins at Sandy Mush Bald Beer Pairings: Asheville Brewing Company Perfect Day IPA and 828 pale ale The Hike: Sandy Mush Bald was one of the
Highlights: mountain views, bald summit, Appalachian Trail Distance: 1.5 mile loop Elevation change: 288 feet Difficulty level: Easy Trailhead Parking: NC State Route 1182 near Hot Springs NC. See link below for directions. The parking area is small with room for about 15 vehicles. Website: US Forest Service Beer Pairings: Wicked Weed Brewing Pernicious IPA
