February 27, 2007
| This week, we hiked on the Appalachian Trail from Dick’s Creek Gap in Georgia southward to the Deep Gap Shelter. This is an out-and-back hike of 8 miles.
HIKERS – Melissa Anderson, Phil Brownrigg, Chuck Crisp, Jack Jacobi, Dick Metzgar, Wayne Miller, Bruce O’Connor, Jeanne O’Connor, Donna Presley, Tony Presley, Dan Ross, Jack Slaton, David Whitaker, Geri Whitaker, and Carole Wintle. TRAIL INFO. – This is a nice portion of the Appalachian Trail that offers great mountain views along the way. The terrain is naturally hilly with approximately 1,000 feet of elevation gain going from Dick’s Creek to Deep Gap. As with most of the Appalachian Trail in Georgia, the forest is mostly hardwood with lots of Oak, Hickory, Beech, and Black Locust, along with thickets of Rhododendron and Mountain Laurel with occasional stands of American Holly. Directions: Take Hwy. 76 W from Clayton, GA toward Hiawassee, GA. and drive approximately 15 to 18 miles and look for the Appalachian Trail crossing signs. The parking lot is on the right. Another great day for a hike – Sunny, with temperatures ranging from the mid 30’s to the upper 50’s. Hiking distance approx. 8 miles We met 5 northbound thru-hikers headed for Maine and one southbounder headed for Springer Mountain! BIRDS IDENTIFIED: Raven, Pileated Woodpecker, Titmouse, Carolina Wren, Turkey Vulture, Carolina Chickadee, Junco. |
 Our starting point at Dick’s Creek Gap. |
 Trail marker near the start. |
 Another great day for a hike! |
 Typical North GA mountain views! |
 Here, we can see a portion of Lake Burton. |
 Taking a break at the overlook. |
 Awesome views from the overlook. |
 Lunchtime at the Deep Gap Shelter. |
 Headed back to Dick’s Creek Gap. |
 The OFHC gang for today’s hike. (l-r seated) Tony Presley, Donna Presley, Carole Wintle, Melissa Anderson, Jeanne O’Connor and Bruce O’Connor. Dogs “Jet” and “Bo” (l-r standing) Wayne Miller, Dan Ross, Phil Brownrigg, Jack Slaton, Chuck Crisp, Dick Metzgar, Jack Jacobi, Geri Whitaker, and David Whitaker. |