Beech Gap to Bob Bald and Stratton Bald
Details
Beech Gap to Bob Bald and Stratton Bald
7.8 miles out-and-back (3.9 miles each way)
1364 ft ascent - moderate
Cherohala Skyway at the TN/NC border
Trailhead Coordinates: 35.3483, -84.0382
Map/Profile/GPS tracks - https://komoot.com/tour/2766810766
AllTrails (not exact, ends at Bob Bald)
For those who wish to carpool to the trailhead, let's plan the LEAVE Cherohala Skyway Visitor Center at 8:45. This should allow enough time to make two quick stops to check out the views:.
1. Turkey Creek Overlook (vault toilets available)
2. Brushy Creek Overlook
Bob Stratton Bald is named for Robert "Bob" Stratton (1825-1864), whose family lived on the bald. The bald is subdivided into two smaller balds: Bob Bald (elevation 5,280 feet) and Stratton Bald (elevation 5,360 feet). Together, they make up Bob Stratton Bald. It is a typical Appalachian bald, with thick grass and few trees.
What to bring:
- Hiking shoes
- Layered clothing (mile-high location, cooler temps)
- Poles (optional)
- Plenty of water
- Lunch
- Snacks
- A sense of adventure
To those who I previously mentioned my reservation for Swan Cabin, that reservation is cancelled. "Due to health and safety concerns, occupancy within Swan Cabin will no longer be permitted." Since there's no overnight stay, I'm making Falls Branch Falls the official second hike and leaving Joyce Kilmer as an UN-HOSTED option.
Standard Notice, Disclaimer:
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