SUNSET HIKE - Bluffs Restaurant to Alligator Back Overlook & Return

Description & Difficulty: Join ASTA for an evening sunset hike! 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 Bluffs Rocks which offer long range views to the west. We will sit at the top of Alligator Back to watch the sunset then return on the same route to the Bluffs Restaurant & Visitor Center parking area. Sunset is at 8:13pm, the nearly-full Flower moon will rise at 9:36pm.

The hike distance is a total of about 3 miles round trip. The hike is rated easy to moderate. There is approximately 200 feet of elevation gain.

Bring a cushion to sit on, if you'd like, and a flashlight or head-lamp for the hike back would be practical.

**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.
Google Map - Bluffs Restaurant & Visitor Center

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. Well-behaved dogs on leashes are welcome. For those wishing a shorter hike, you can watch the sunset from the picnic area, about a mile hike in.

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.