Goldfield Mountain Loop to Blue Ridge and Tower Lookout
Details
Hello, Happy Hikers! If you're looking to explore some of the fabled Goldfield Mountain region, come join us for this moderate hike of some 4.5 to 5.5 miles. Everything always depends on group speed and ability, but we'd estimate this should take 3-3.5 hours. There are many ups and downs along the route where we'll have accumulated gain of maybe 550-650 feet.
Please understand, these areas are not well documented, and we, ourselves, use no instrumentation on our hikes. Everything here is our best estimates based on years of hiking these mountains.
DIFFICULTY: Moderate hike with some short, strong climbs and descents along various trails that have become jeep roads and jeep roads that have become trails. Total solitude on weekdays. Some OHV activity on weekends. Sticks/poles are useful in spots, but not required. There are some slippery, rocky sections, so make sure your shoes have good treads. If you are unsure of your ability, and have taken the time to put in your profile some of the places you have hiked, or if you've hiked with us before, we can help you determine if this hike is right for you. Just ask!
WHAT TO BRING: Water, sunscreen, hat, camera, snacks/lunch, and sturdy footwear. We will break for lunch/snacks/photos and exploring at the top of Blue Ridge and at the towers.
This is a small parking lot along a short, dirt road to the trailhead. Route is passable by car and fully paved but for the last 100 yards.
SPECIAL NOTE: We have been hiking these Goldfield Mountains for more than 17 years now. Recently, they have started to name and mark a few trails in this region, but there remains several unmarked trail junctions along the way. So, let's try to stick together, or, at least, not get too far ahead of the pack. We will stop at each junction to assure we have everybody, but if you are ahead of the hike leaders, you are on your own.
Note: There are no facilities at this trailhead. Plan accordingly and bring plenty of water (we would suggest at least 3 liters).
Please understand, hiking has its dangers. By signing up and attending this, and any 3H events, you are responsible for your own safety, and organizers and their assistants cannot be held responsible for any injuries or other mishaps that may occur.