A Short, Slow Walk on the Mountains-to-Sea Trail

This Slow Walk will begin at Osborne Mountain Overlook located on the Blue Ridge Parkway at MP 277.9. The out-and-back hike is 2.7 miles with 415 ft of elevation gain, mainly on the return leg. This hike will be on a section of the Mountains-to-Sea Trail between Osborne Mountain Overlook and Deep Gap.

The trail section begins on the opposite side of the Parkway at the MST bollard. It is a white dot blazed trail. Heading north after stepping out into a open field with distant views of Snake Mountain and Elk Knob hikers will enter a pine forest and follow a level graded trail descending toward the US 421 Bridge at Deep Gap. Trail traverses at a steady grade through mixed hardwood forest, deep coves, and expansive views to the east to Pilot Mountain near the mid point.

A “slow walk” is meant to allow the hiker time to enjoy being in nature, experience the forest, and saunter at a comfortable easy pace. A slow walk is less about the destination and more about the journey. Allow 1 hour for completion in one direction. This is “easy” rated on the north and downhill stretch. The return climb gains 415 feet in a steady 6% grade and a gentle climb and would be classified as a moderate hike. This hike could be considered appropriate for “Senior” hikers who are competent hiking on forest trails. No rock hopping or high stepping required. Trekking poles might be helpful especially if there is still snow on the ground or muddy conditions.

The outing leader is a MST trail keeper and will share history and insights about the trail which opened in 2010.

This outing is a Sierra Club outing and you must register online with Sierra Club to participate. Please use the link on the Sierra Club's Blue Ridge Group's calendar at our Home Page or go directly to the registration.

Appropriate clothing including sturdy shoes, rain gear, cold weather gear should be worn. Bring water and snack if desired. Participants not making the round trip should arrange for car pooling partners to leave a vehicle at Deep Gap. Sierra Club does not provide shuttles. Slow walking dogs on a short lease are permitted as this is a narrow foot trail with little scamper room for passage.

There is no charge for this hike and it is open to Sierra Club members and to non-members. We do require participants to sign a standard liability waiver when you register. If you'd like to read the waiver prior to the hike please email us at blueridgesierraclub@gmail.com and we will email you a copy.