8/21/07 Wayah Bald, Appalachian Tr. NC

HIKERS – John Bellamy, June Bellamy, Phil Brownrigg, Jack Jacobi, Joe Metzger, Wanda Miller, Wayne Miller, Joe Raguckas, Vic Robson, Doug Russell, Pom Sinnock, Dave Standard, Bob Thompson, David Whitaker, Geri Whitaker.

TRAIL INFO. – This portion of the Appalachian Trail involves more than 1,000 feet of elevation gain out to Wayah Bald but the change is mostly gradual. The trail merges with the Bartram Trail about half-way out. Despite the very dry summer, the wildflowers were prolific. The views from the old rock observation tower are some of the best in the southeast on a clear day.

Directions: From Franklin, travel west on US 64 for 3 miles to Old Murphy Road where there is a Wayah Bald sign. Turn right and drive .2 mile to Wayah Road (SR 1310). Turn left and continue for 9 miles to Wayah Gap and FR 69. (Wayah Crest Picnic Area is on the left.)

Another great day for a hike! Partly cloudy and mild with temperatures ranging from 70-78 degrees F.

Hiking distance – approx. 8.5 miles

WILDFLOWERS IN BLOOM: Horse Balm, Indian Physic, Heal-All, Angelica, Tall Bluet, Doll’s Eyes (fruit), Yellow Mandarin (fruit), Pale Jewel Weed, Yarrow, Coreopsis, Canada Violet, Alum Root, Clover, Wood Sorrel, White Snake Root, Golden Rod, Black Eyed Susan, Mountain Mint, Sun Flower, Joe Pye Weed, Harebell, Skull Cap, Rattlesnake Plantain, White Wood Aster, Monk’s Hood, Blue Wood Aster, Black Cohosh, Indian Pink, Beech Drops, Spotted Jewelweed, Flowering spurge, and Daisy Fleabane

BIRDS IDENTIFIED: White Breasted Nuthatch, Turkey, Crow, Hairy Woodpecker, Summer Tananger, Grouse, Chimney Swift, Hooded Warbler

Other Fauna: Garter Snake