I’m looking for a loop trail in NC for a two night hike. I usually hike 10 miles a day and want to see some views. I’m concerned that the recent storms have closed some trails in the mountains.
I plan on leaving the Charlotte, NC area around 2:30 on Friday, 10/1. The first campsite/shelter can’t be too many miles from the trailhead since I’m sure it will take me 3 to 3 1/2 hours to get to the mountains from here.
Any suggestions?
Bruce
well, maybe by your departure time the trees will be cleared. but i have been looking everyday for trails that aren’t currently in shambles.
aside from the storm, your best bet is to go to a map/bookstore and get a pisgah national forest map. there are fantastic trails you can do all kinds of stuff with. if you can get to it, go to shining rock wilderness. (sad, but remember no campfires and no blazes in wilderness area so be PREPARED) the art loeb trail is beautiful and has some good challenges and EXCELLENT VIEWS. you can create a loop for yourself and the map has the trails and mileage marked.
shining rock might actually be a good bet because there aren’t as many trees–
the main clump of pisgah trails have parking and easy loops w/ camping usually wherever you find a spot.
you might want to call and find out if the trails are cleared by then, i’ve been attempting to bushwack through already existing trails (in pisgah and on the MTS) everyday and the trees are just too monstrous to get through. it’s sad. but then again, it’s only been a few days. also, i heard the blue ridge parkway will be down for a long time. i took a walk up there on one of the closed sections… an entire rock wall fell w/ trees and the top of the mountain into the road. intense.
good luck and have fun!
greenie