Trail Map: The Hike: We were originally planning to do this hike in mid-October for peak foliage views. However, we had too many schedules to coordinate so we hiked on a beautiful day in early November after all the leaves were down. Pete’s sister Nan, our niece Hannah, and nephew Jack joined us on this […]
Mount Marshall via the AT Read More »
Trail Map: The Hike: This fantastic hike has a little bit of everything: sweeping vistas, wild ponies, free range cattle, rhododendrons, rock scrambles, stream crossings, and dense forests. It’s one of our all-time favorites. The trails are well marked and well maintained. Several trails are combined to form this loop so download the AllTrails map
AT, Wilburn Ridge & Crest Loop Read More »
Trail Map: The Hike: AllTrails lists this hike as part of a 10-mile hike which loops around the summit of Rocky Mount and returns on the Gap Run Trail. We decided to shorten the hike to an out and back on the Rocky Mount Trail. It has all the great views and while still a
Trail Map: The Hike: This challenging hike is a steep cardio workout. However, the views and rock formations are well worth the effort. The North Fork Mountain Trail (NFMT) spans nearly 25 miles from US 33 north to WV route 28. This hike begins at the northern terminus of NFMT. The trail is well marked
Trail Map: The Hike: The rocky summit of Seneca Rocks dominates the landscape. This has been a popular destination for generations. Seneca Rocks National Recreation Area (NRA) contains the highest peak in West Virginia with some of the best rock climbing in the east. This is a very popular destination and the steep trail to
Trail Map: The Hike: This section hike on the Appalachian Trail straddles the North Carolina/Tennessee state line. The open ridge provides spectacular views of both states. The road to the trailhead is paved for a few miles and then turns to gravel/dirt. We had no problems with our AWD Subaru and it should be passable
Big Firescald Knob Read More »
Trail Map: The Hike: This hike is said to have some of the best views in Great Smoky Mountains NP. We certainly understand why it is so popular. This eight-mile round trip hike on the Appalachian Trail has an option one mile extension on the Jump Off Trail with even more amazing views. Dogs are
Trail Map: The Hike: This easy hike has some fantastic views. Located in the Shawvers Run Wildness in Jefferson National Forest, this hike is a hidden gem. It’s popular with locals but not well known to most hikers. Part of the reason could be the 3-mile drive on the forest road leading to the trailhead.
Hanging Rock Overlook Read More »
Trail Map: The Hike: This easy hike on the Appalachian Trail has some nice views. The only drawback is it shares a parking area with McAfee Knob, one of the most popular hikes on the AT. The parking area holds 40-50 vehicles so either arrive early in the morning or plan to take the McAfee
The Hike: Mount Monadnock is famous for a variety of reasons. It’s the second-most climbed mountain in the world (after Mount Fuji in Japan) and it’s listed as a National Natural Landmark by the National Park Service. It’s been a favorite for generations of New Englanders including Ralph Waldo Emerson and Henry David Thoreau. It’s
