Date: 05/19/2026
Name: Wolfpen Gap to the Byron Reece Trailhead via Blood Mountain
Distance: 5.9
Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
Total Climbing Elevation: 1,526
Type: One-Way
Notes: With sunny skies, light winds and temperatures between 65 and 75 degrees, it was a good day for a hike. The trails were mixed with some overgrowth on the Duncan Ridge Trail, but the AT climbing up Blood Mountain on its east side was not difficult. However, the decent on the AT and Byron Reece Access Trail was very rocky and eroded in places requiring careful footing. The conditions on this latter section made this portion of the hike more difficult than the initial steep climb. Amazingly, there was a wide variety of wildflowers blooming including some earlier spring varieties such as Trillium and native Azalea. We also noticed the overhead trees above 4,300 feet had not fully developed their leaves. Of further note, "The Byron Herbert Reece Trail from the trailhead parking lot to the Appalachian Trail was rerouted to prevent erosion and improve sustainability. The new path extends the trail to 1.25 miles while offering a more scenic and gradual climb compared to the original 0.75-mile route." It sems that May 19, 2026 was the last day the original access trail was to be open. This does not effect the AT above that access trail which is quite technical and challenging, either climbing or descending. This route from Hogpen Gap, while moderately difficult to difficult, is still a rewarding trail. Today's hikers: Linda Solomon, Jeff Solomon, Gregg Nuessly, Jack Treadman, Matt Henderson & Toby, Mike Bell
AllTrails Link: Wolfpen Gap to the Byron Reece Trailhead via Blood Mountain near Vogel State Park
Additional Search Terms: May