March 20, 2007
| This week, we hiked on the Bartram Trail from Jones Gap in NC to Tessentee Creek Campground. This is an out-and-back hike of approx. 6 miles.
HIKERS – John Bellamy, June Bellamy, Ray Cowan, Chuck Crisp, Bill Hunt, Jack Jacobi, Dick Metzgar, Wayne Miller, Bruce O’Connor, Jeanne O’Connor, Dan Ross, Doug Russell, Pom Sinnock, Bob Thompson, David Whitaker, and Geri Whitker. TRAIL INFO. – This is a beautiful portion of the Bartram Trail in the N. C. mountains. This hike is not long but the hills make it a very good workout. The trail takes you over Keith Day Knob, as you head toward Tessentee Creek. Along the trail, you get nice views of Curtiss Knob and Scaly and Fork Mountains. Also, Peggy Knob, Whiterock Mountain, Rector Knob, and beautiful views of the Tessentee Valley. Directions: From the corner of 4th and Main in Highlands, take US64/28 (toward Franklin) for 4.2 miles to Turtle Pond Rd. (SR1620). Turn left and drive 1.1 miles to SR1678. Turn right and drive 1.4 miles to the top of a hill. Turn left on Jones Gap Rd. (FR4522). Take this road 2 miles to the parking area. The trail leaves the parking area on the right Another great day for a hike – Mostly sunny, with temperatures ranging from the mid 50’s to the mid 60’s. Hiking distance approx. 6 miles WILDFLOWERS IN BLOOM: none BIRDS IDENTIFIED: Crow, Pileated Woodpecker, Carolina Chickadee, Junco, Towhee, Red Eyed Vireo |
 The Information board at Jones Gap. |
 The trail head at Jones Gap. |
 Taking in a view. |
 The view! |
 Another great day for a hike! |
 One of many nice views! |
 The Tessentee Valley |
 The N.C. Mountains! |
 Sadly, the Hemlock Woolly Adelgid threatens the mighty Eastern Hemlocks! |
 Lunchtime at Tessentee Creek Campground. |
 Rock Cap Fern. |
 The OFHC gang for today’s hike. (LR front) Ray Cowan, Dan Ross, Dick Metzgar, and Chuck Crisp. (l-r back) David Whitaker, Geri Whitaker, Bill Hunt, Bruce O’Connor, Jeanne O’Connor, Bob Thompson, Pom Sinnock, Wayne Miller, John Bellamy, June Bellamy, Jack Jacobi, and Doug Russell. |