Chimney Top-Cabins, WV (Rating: B)
Details
You must read the following NVHC Sign-in Sheet Statement/Liability Disclaimer, [https://nvhc.com/signin.pdf ](https://nvhc.com/signin.pdf)and then answer the question that you will see when you RSVP with "I accept" to be permitted on the hike.
This is a 6-to-7 mile out-and-back hike with nearly 1600 ft. of elevation. While rated as a B hike, most all of the elevation occurs in the steep climb in the first 1.3 miles! So take that into consideration. Hopefully, the Mountain Laurel will still be in bloom! While the length of this hike is not long, and the drive may not seem worth it, the time spent on the hike will include many stops for the scenic views and photo taking opportunities. Since the parking is limited, the number of attendees will be limited, and carpooling is strongly encouraged.
From the Landis Trail trailhead parking lot, we will take the Landis Trail to the peak, then turn right on the ridge onto the North Fork Mountain Trail and follow that to Chimney Top. We will take our time stopping to take in the stunning views at the several overlooks and Chimney Top before returning the same route back. Chimney Top has wide panoramic views similar to Big Schloss, with a view of the Dolly Sods plateau across the valley. Click on the links below for photos of the views.
We hike at a 2.5-3.0 mph pace when moving.
While this hike technically doesn't quite rate as a B level for distance and elevation, I'm rating it as a B due the steep climb of near 1500 feet in the first 1.3 miles.
Alltrails map for hike: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/west-virginia/chimney-top-via-landis-and-north-fork-mountain-trails
It can be buggy and overgrown in places on this hike, so bug spray and long pants are recommended.
The travel time from Centreville Park and Ride is about 2 hrs. and 15 minutes and about 122 miles. The leader will not be at the carpool location. Those wishing to carpool can use the comment section to arrange carpools with others. Neither the Club nor the hike leaders are responsible for coordinating transportation to/from the trailhead. Hikers are not guaranteed to get a ride to the trailhead from the carpool location. Carpooling is organized by the participants and they participate at their own risk.
Meet at the carpool location no later than 8:00and leave by 8:10.
Suggested carpool fee: $14.
Meet at the trailhead before 10:30 am. Please arrive early so we can get hiking by 10:30 am.
Trailhead GPS Coordinates:
38.9594, -79.2413
Park Entry Fee: $0.00
Dogs are permitted on this hike in accordance with the NVHC Dog Policy. https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy
Hike Leader: John H 703-424-0787
I don't know if there is cell reception at the trailhead. If anyone has to bail after the RSVP cutoff time, please mention it in the comment section.
Check out some photos of the area: