Black Rock Mountain

Let's get some mileage on President's Day!

Most of you know my practices for hikes, but I'll repeat them here. This is NOT a guided hike and you are responsible for your own well-being and ability to complete the hike within the listed time. These are big mileage hikes at a brisk pace and if you don't hike regularly, I would strongly recommend against your participation.

We will be departing the trailhead at the posted time. Do not expect the group to wait for you if you are running late, though you are welcome to try and catch up with the group.

I will be monitoring the weather closely as the day of the hike approaches and will likely cancel in the case of inclement weather. This decision will generally be made the night before the hike and I will post accordingly. You should check this posting prior to leaving for the trailhead.

We will hike approximately 12.2-miles along the Tennessee Rock Trail, the James E. Edmond Trail, and the Ada-Hi Falls Trail gaining and loosing 2,700+ of elevation as we complete the two loops and a short trek to the waterfall. This is NOT a trail for beginners, as we will be hiking approximately 2.5 mph with elevation. We'll find some place appropriate for a short lunch break.

To reach the trail head (34.907180, -83.412080):
-Head north on US 23 to Mountain City
-Turn Left onto Black Rock Mountain Parkway
-At the fork, head right to continue on Black Rock Mountain Road
-Continue as the road twists and turns until you reach the Cowee Overlook
-The trailhead is on the right side of the road approximately 1/5 of a mile beyond the overlook

As this is a Georgia State Park, you will either need to pay the entrance fee of $5 or have a valid State Parks Pass. Parking at the trail head appears to be pretty limited and so you may want to arrive a little early.
I'll be driving a white and black Jeep Wrangler.

As this is a fair drive from the Atlanta area, please allow plenty of time for the trip. We will depart promptly at 11:00 AM. I have no idea if there will be cell coverage at the trail head and so, I won't be watching for last minute messages. If you need to contact me with questions, please do it before the day of the hike.

Please ensure you bring proper gear (water, poles, layers, snacks, etc.). I've hiked these trails in winter before and they can have ice patches. I strongly recommend poles and possibly, even traction-enhancing devices like yak-tracks.

Looking forward to hiking with you,
Mike