Owleyes
Trail Ready!
Oh Spring.. you got me again
Posts: 9 
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Post by Owleyes on Apr 26, 2016 5:32:38 GMT -8
Hello everyone!
I am looking for help finding a last minute trial in this area (We are coming from MI). There is a group of 5 of us that had a wonderful 40 mile mountain hike planned for next week in NC, however it looks like thunderstorms all week may ruin those carefully laid plans. We are looking for a possible alternative and could use some help!
It looks like there are some great options in PA and WV based on some posts.
Ideal length would be 30-40 miles, 4-5 days.
I would love to get some elevation (again the plan was the Nantahala Mountains in NC)
Please help! Thank you
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Post by Coolkat on Apr 26, 2016 6:05:02 GMT -8
If PA is a possibility there are tons of possibilities but being a michigander myself I would recommend that you choose a 40 mile section of the North Country Trail that goes through the Allegheny National Forest. It's the closest best option in my opinion. This section of the NCT is 100 miles but I've only done about 40/50 miles that surrounds Minister Creek. Not sure if it'll meet your elevation requirement. There are some definite elevation gains but losses go with them. northcountrytrail.org/trail/states/pennsylvania/explore-by-section/allegheny-national-forest-chapter/I'm sure others will pipe in with their suggestions because there are plenty of options in PA and WV. |
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Post by rwtb123 on Apr 26, 2016 6:09:46 GMT -8
I can give you two options on the A.T. in Va. that are scenic with significant elevation change.US60 to Reeds Gap in central Va or Damascus to Va603 in SW Va.The first includes Cold Mtn,Spy Rock,The Priest,and Three Ridges while the second takes you up and over Grayson Highlands(though may not be far enough from N.C. depending on the weather forecast). The actual distances weren't able to be pasted in and linked but inputing those locations in this distance calculator will give you an idea of where they are.Both are right around 40 miles. www.atdist.com/And,here is a recent trip report on a section of the first option by one of the forum members. bpbasecamp.freeforums.net/thread/1556/new-years-virginia-appalachian-trail |
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Post by jmitch on Apr 26, 2016 8:16:38 GMT -8
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Post by Coolkat on Apr 26, 2016 9:04:24 GMT -8
Black Forest Trail in PA is a rugged 42 mile loop You said the perfect word when it comes to going solo. You used the word "loop" and it appears to be a nice long loop at that. Was wondering if you could give nearest "burrough" or village or whatever they are called in PA so I guesstimate drive time? |
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Owleyes
Trail Ready!
Oh Spring.. you got me again
Posts: 9
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Post by Owleyes on Apr 26, 2016 9:13:30 GMT -8
The site looks like it is near the town Slate Run... great suggestion but looks like rain all next week too  |
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talus
Trail Wise!
Posts: 560 
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Post by talus on Apr 26, 2016 10:34:34 GMT -8
If you choose the Allegheny National Forest, I can be of some help with planning and possibly arranging a shuttle.
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Owleyes
Trail Ready!
Oh Spring.. you got me again
Posts: 9
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Post by Owleyes on Apr 26, 2016 10:40:09 GMT -8
Is there a trail that you recommend? I am not at all familiar with the area..What is the closest town/city to the park? it looks like near the Black Forest Trail is going to be rainy and stormy next week so that is less then ideal, hope this park is a bit sunnier.
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Owleyes
Trail Ready!
Oh Spring.. you got me again
Posts: 9
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Post by Owleyes on Apr 26, 2016 10:43:40 GMT -8
Looks like rain there actually too... Sunday through Wednesday ... The time we have set aside is Saturday through Friday. |
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talus
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Post by talus on Apr 26, 2016 11:02:05 GMT -8
Warren, PA would be the closest city to the ANF. Personally, I'd go with my original plan weather be dammed. The long range forecast could change, it has been pretty dry here.
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Owleyes
Trail Ready!
Oh Spring.. you got me again
Posts: 9
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Post by Owleyes on Apr 26, 2016 11:05:10 GMT -8
Yeah, looks like I should have pushed to go this week instead of next. There are storms coming from the North and West right now and looks like most areas KY, PA, NC and WV will all be stormy and wet next week .... guess that is how it goes. I am bringing a newbie along and was hoping to find better weather so she would be more likely to join again in the future.
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talus
Trail Wise!
Posts: 560
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Post by talus on Apr 26, 2016 12:32:40 GMT -8
T-storms are hit and miss. I'd rather have that forecast (as long as you won't be above treeline) than all day rains. Like I said, if you do decide on the Allegheny Forest, I'm a trail coordinator there and I can help you plan...
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talus
Trail Wise!
Posts: 560
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Post by talus on Apr 26, 2016 12:54:02 GMT -8
By the way, my vote would be for Dolly Sods in WV. Best bang for the buck with a beginner in my opinion. one option |
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Post by rwtb123 on Apr 27, 2016 3:13:09 GMT -8
I was giving you some of the more challenging options in the Mid-Atlantic, that could rival the steep ,challenging trails/terrain the Nantahala region is known for.Unfortunately,that forecast is all too common in the Appalachians this time of year, when clouds/mist/rain can sock in the mountains,reducing visibility and making the hiking even more challenging.Then, it will cool down enough at night to make hypothermia a risk, if not careful.
As you seem to realize,I don't think that will be an ideal trip for a first-timer.Perhaps,you could stay closer to home this time with one of the long trails in Mi/Ws or Isle Royale(if permit issues allow).
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crawford
Trail Wise!
Opportunity is missed by most people because it is dressed in overalls and looks like work.--Edison
Posts: 1,775
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Post by crawford on Apr 27, 2016 7:45:39 GMT -8
The AT from Swatara Gap in South Central PA to Port Clinton Gap is a rough stretch of trail but some very nice overlooks.
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