We revisited the Appalachian Ranger district to camp and hike the first weekend in April in an area where there were no trail closures. It was quite cold, and the presence of early April wildflowers was highly dependent on the orientation of slopes and elevation. Some south-facing crags displayed a Read more…
The last weekend of March found us searching for spring wildflowers and a place to hike and camp where we could safely social distance. We focused in on two locations, hiking about 8 miles in the Pisgah National Forest with proximity to the Appalachian Trail. The next day, we visited Read more…
As COVID-19 has spread across the US, we continue to seek refuge in the wilderness. Even in normal times, trails that are less traveled are always our preference. The first weekend in March, we went to Rocky Fork, which defies the typical concept of a state park. Rocky Fork is Read more…
The Big Butt trail runs between Rt. 197 from the Cane River Gap to the Balsam Gap on Blue Ridge Parkway. This is one of my favorite places to hike year-round. Regardless of where you start, you will hike through different plant communities along the way, including spruce-fir forest, high Read more…
Both of these hikes on the Appalachian Trail began at the Nolichucky River, heading north (NOBO) on the AT one week, and two weeks later, south (SOBO). I am always amazed by the difference in plant communities that are found on trails in close proximity to each other. The first Read more…
The final two weekends in January were marked by good weather and even better hikes. Last weekend, we wanted a hike with long range views and a good climb. One obvious choice is the grassy bald, Beauty Spot, that is accessible via Indian Grave Gap that crosses the Appalachian Trail. Read more…
In mid-January, we had a stretch of wet, windy and warm weather. In the past week, the temperatures have ranged from highs in the sixties to lows in the teens. Yes, the weather can change rapidly here, but it has been a bit more extreme than usual. Our destination was Read more…
The first weekend of January brought cold temperatures, along with rain or snow, depending on the elevation. Our destination was towards the Spring Mountain Shelter, starting at Allen Gap on the Appalachian Trail. Due to my foot injury, I was alternately frustrated and positive about my ability- and limitations- to Read more…
There is no doubt that the plant kingdom has fine-tuned the intricacy of seasonal change that belies the stark landscape of winter. Hiking in winter feels hushed and peaceful, as though everything around you is in deep slumber. Even before the winter solstice arrived, we had already hiked twice in Read more…
Earlier in August, my hiking buddy Joan and I opted for higher elevations, and hopefully cooler weather in the Roan Mountain area. Our trek began near the Overmountain Victory trail at Yellow Mountain Gap, and joining the Appalachian trail towards Grassy Ridge. We covered 12 miles, and experienced a drop Read more…
