January 25, 2005
| HIKERS – Phil Brownrigg, Jack Jacobi, Bob Presley, Donna Presley, Tony Presley, Dan Ross, Doug Russell, and Bob Thompson.
TRAIL INFO. – Today’s hike was on the Bartram Trail starting at Hale Ridge Road at the Bartram Trail crossing and hiking up to Rabun Bald (Georgia’s 2nd highest mountain peak – 4696 ft). As usual, the Bartram Trail was very well maintained and the hike was a very nice with only a moderate degree of difficulty. There is quite a bit of elevation change especially the last mile up to the top. The visibility was great from the tower with a fantastic 360 degree panoramic view of the NC and GA mountains. Total round trip distance – 8.4 mi according to sign (7.9 according to GPS) Directions: Take Hwy. 441 N from Clayton, GA through Dillard, GA and turn right onto GA 246 / NC 106 toward Highlands, NC. Drive about 7 miles and turn right at the Scaly Mtn. Ski Slope. Go a couple of miles and turn left onto Hale Ridge road. Drive a mile or so and you will see the trail crossing sign on your right. Another great day for a hike! Fair and cool. Temperatures ranging from 30 F to the low 50’s F. FAUNA: Eastern Mole (Deceased; in trail. Dropped by startled Barred Owl??). BIRDS IDENTIFIED: Barred Owl, Ruffed Grouse, Raven, American Crow, Pileated Woodpecker, Blue Jay, Towhee, White-breasted Nuthatch, Black-capped Chickadee, Dark-eyed Junco. |
 Shortly into the hike we pass this icy waterfalls. |
 As we walk along the trail, we see our destination . |
 We surprised a Barred Owl and he flew up and perched in this tree. |
 Here, we are working our way up the mountain. |
 Several places along the trail were covered with ice! |
 You will not find a better place for lunch! (on the observation tower at Rabun Bald) elevation 4696 ft plus the hight of the tower 20 ft or so). |
 View one from the tower. |
 View two! |
 view three! |
 View four! |
 The old rock observation tower! |
 The OFHC gang for today’s hike! (l-r) Jack Jacobi, Phil Brownrigg, Dan Ross, Donna Presley, Bob Thompson, Bob Presley,Doug Russell, and Tony Presley. |