Mt. Sterling via Baxter Creek (VVSS)
Details
This hike is prior to our annual Fall Campout in the Smokies, but is open to anyone interested in attending. You don't have to camp with us Friday and Saturday, but if you're interested in joining, details about the campout can be found here.
We will be hiking up to Mt Sterling via the Baxter Creek Trail. Approximately 12 miles and 4100’ elevation gain and is a full day of strenuous hiking. This is one of the most strenuous hikes the club offers so it is for seasoned hikers.
If you're not someone who does 10 mile 2000+ feet elevation gain hikes a couple times a month, this hike is probably not for you. If we have not hiked together before, contact me at my email address. Let me know the mileage and elevation gain of recent hikes you have done that gives you confidence that this hike isn't beyond your capabilities.
This hike features beautiful views of ferns, rock formations covered in elegant moss, fall leaf colors and a 360 degree incredible view at the top. The Mt. Sterling fire tower is the highest above sea level elevation fire tower that remains in the eastern United States.
Approximately 12 miles and 4100’ elevation gain
Meet at the Baxter Creek trailhead at 9:00
A GSMNP parking pass is required there. They can be purchased on site.
Hike Leader will be camping at Big Creek and will meet the group at the trailhead.
If there are others interested in camping there may be other sites still available there, or we can possibly get the group site if there are enough people. Let me know if you're interested in camping.
Some hikers may want to form carpools. Please note the drive from Greenville to the trailhead is approximately two hours.
Hike Leader: Joseph H.
Contact [newwavejoe@yahoo.com](mailto:newwavejoe@yahoo.com)
M: 12
EG 4100 feet
· **NOTE** A parking pass is required to park in the National Park. For pass information, go to: https://www.nps.gov/grsm/planyourvisit/fees.htm#11/35.5956/-83.4988