The rock outcrops on Shooting Creek Bald and High Cove Ridge are the most difficult sections of the ridge to walk and arguably are among the most remote peaks in Georgia. The ridge running generally west from Georgia's fourth highest mountain, Hightower Bald which reaches 4,568 ft., to Eagle Mt. which is 4,259 ft., has several 4,000 ft.-plus peaks in between. From the Forest Service boundary on Shoal Branch we'll climb almost 2,000 ft. before lunch then scramble through the blackberries, rhododendrons, and ninebark along the ridge top to Lemons Gap. We'll walk below the cliffs on the return route.
Leader:
Ben Cash
Meeting Time, Place, and Directions:
10:00 am in Ingles parking lot on US 76 in Hiawassee, GA. From there we'll carpool for the drive to the trailhead.
Outing Location:
Towns County, mostly within the Southern Nantahala Wilderness
USGA Quadrangles:
Macedonia GA-NC
Distance and Difficulty:
Hike is approximately
5 miles. Strenuous. Bushwacking with stream crossings, briars, steep slopes, and rock outcrops. Leisurely pace.
Bring:
Lunch, water, rain gear, and appropriate clothing and footwear, walking sticks, etc. (Allergic to bees/wasps? Remember your meds/epi-pen.)
Cancellation: Hikers will be notified if hike is canceled due to forecast of severe weather, etc.
Pet & Alcohol Policy: Thank you for not bringing your pet friends or any adult beverages on Georgia ForestWatch outings. And, no smoking, please.
Sign up now!Reservations required. Our outings are free of charge, and open to everyone "first come, first served" up to the limit. Reserve with the following information: - Name of each person attending
- Your e-mail address
- Your phone # (preferably cell if you'll have it on outing day)
To sign up Click Here or contact Jennifer Lopez by replying to this e-mail or calling 706-635-8733.Questions on the day of the hike: (706) 778 5155 or (706) 968 3841 for cell which may not be available in the vicinity of hike.
