Trail Map: The Hike: We are working our way through the AT—one state at a a time. This loop hike has almost 4 AT miles, passes by the traditional half-way point on the AT, has a half-mile rock scramble, and finishes with some history and ice cream at the state park. The trailhead in Pine […]
Sunset Rocks & Appalachian Trail Read More »
Trail Map: This is a nice walk in the woods on the AT with some decent mountain and lake views. The AT crosses over the Watauga Dam which spans the Watauga River Gorge. The AT enters the Shook Branch Recreation Area near the beach. Follow the AT northbound through a hardwood forest with several nice
Watauga Lake & Dam Read More »
Trail Map: The Hike: Last year we hiked to Big Bald on the AT and it was one of our favorite hikes of 2023. This hike on the AT approaches Big Bald from the north. We didn’t have time for the 13 mile out-and-back to Big Bald, so we squeezed in a shorter hike to
Trail Map: The Hike: Crabtree Falls (not to be confused with a falls of the same name in Virginia) is just off the Blue Ridge parkway. This majestic 70’ falls is considered on of the most photogenic in western North Carolina. The trail is well marked and well maintained. This is a popular hike so
Trail Map: The Hike: This hike in Cumberland Gap National Historical Park has lots of history and a decent view at the top. Several signs and placards tell the story of the people and events in this area. The trail is well marked and well maintained. From the parking area, followed the paved path to
Trail Map: The Hike: Dolly Sods is well known for its unique ecosystem and for muddy trails. On our early May hike, we were lucky as the famous mud didn’t materialize due to a few weeks of dry weather. This hike combines three trails: trail 522 Bear Rocks, trail 521 Raven Ridge, and trail 524
Rocky Knob in Dolly Sods Read More »
Trail Map: The Hike: This technical hike has a little bit over everything, waterfalls, stream crossings, rock scrambles, wildflowers, views, and caves. It has been described on AllTrails as “the hikes hike” and we agree. Navigating this hike can be challenging. The trail is well marked; however, it winds over, under, and around rocks and
Trail Map: The Hike: Northeastern Tennessee has some amazing sandstone rock formations. This hike in Pickett CCC Memorial State Park gives hikers a close-up view of some incredible geology—sandstone bluffs, caverns, and a small stone arch. From the parking area, follow the green blazes. In .5 miles, reach the junction of the loop, we opted
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 is a great hike if you’re looking for solitude along with some great views. We hiked on a rainy Saturday and only encounter three other hikers. The Golden Winged Warbler has experienced a dramatic decrease in population in the past 50 years. Its namesake trail passes through ideal habitat for
AT & Golden Winged Warbler Loop Read More »
