Bluffs Restaurant to Bluffs Rock (Alligator Back)

Description: Let's get back on the Doughton Park Trails! We will depart from the Doughton Park NPS Visitor Center/Bluffs Restaurant and follow the Bluffs Trail/Mountains to Sea Trail passing by the Bluffs Lodge and across open fields with panoramic vistas. The trail passes the Lone Tree and proceeds through the picnic area to the Bluffs Rocks (Top of Alligator Back) which offer long range views to the west. We will then return on the same route to the Bluffs Restaurant & Visitor Center parking area.

The Bluffs Restaurant will be accommodating ASTA for a casual lunch outside, for those who wish to spend some extra time and patronize the restaurant. They will not be officially open yet.,

Difficulty: The hike distance is a total of just under 4 miles. The hike is rated moderate to moderately challenging. There is approximately 400 feet of elevation gain on the way to the Bluff Rocks overlook and back to the Bluffs Restaurant. For those who wish an even shorter hike, you can turn around at any time, just let us know your Intentions.

Emergency Contact Info: Please complete the attached Member and Emergency Contact Information Form so we have your emergency information; we can also send you information about how to put this info on your phone.
ASTA Member and Emergency Contact Information

How to find us and trail map: Park at the Bluffs Visitor Center & Restaurant on the Blue Ridge Parkway. A google map link to the lot is below. Links to the Blue Ridge Parkway and Doughton Park Trails are also attached.
Google Map - Bluffs Restaurant & Visitor Center

[Maps - Blue Ridge Parkway (U.S. National Park Service) (nps.gov)](https://www.nps.gov/blri/planyourvisit/maps.htm)

[Doughton Park Hiking Trails - Blue Ridge Parkway (U.S. National Park Service) (nps.gov)](https://www.nps.gov/blri/planyourvisit/doughton-park-trails.htm)

IMPORTANT NOTE REGARDING ACCESS: *The NPS will soon be opening the Route 21 access and closing the Route 18 access. At this point, plan on accessing from Route 21 and NOT Route 18. If things change we will note it in MeetUp, so check back before the hike.*

Weather: This hike is weather dependent. If the weather forecast turns inclement, we will possibly reschedule the event for a different day and time. If it is questionable, please check back here to the home page before the event to see if conditions have changed, we will try to update event status as timely as practical.

Other Info: You should expect roots, rocks and poor footing in some locations on the trails. To reduce the chance of a fall and for balance, a hiking pole or poles is recommended. Also, please wear shoes with good ankle support and traction. You should bring water, comfortable clothing appropriate for the weather and season (example: warm gear in cold weather and rain gear for seasonal hikes is always a good idea), a snack if desired (please pack out any trash), and during bug season a good repellant for mosquitos and ticks may be desired. Please abide by our dog policy.

Terms of Participation: Participation in this event constitutes acceptance of the terms of participation as listed for this group on its homepage. On behalf of yourself and any guest you invite, participation in our events is entirely at your own risk.