9/23/08 Appalachian Trail – Muskrat Creek, NC

HIKERS – Russell Burken, Chuck Crisp, Bill Hunt, Jack Jacobi, Wayne Miller, Bruce O’Connor, Jeanne O’Connor, Joe Raguckas, Donna Presley, Tony Presley, Vic Robson, Dan Ross, Doug Russell, Lynne Saporito, Dave Standard, Faye Sisson, Jack Slaton, and Carole Wintle.

TRAIL INFO. – A nice hike on the Appalachian Trail from Deep Gap near Standing Indian to Muskrat Creek, NC. This portion of the A.T. is only moderately hilly as it passes through this beautiful hardwood forest. Mountain views are limited due to foliage. The trail is well-shaded and portions of the trail are very rocky and require close attention to footing. There was one large tree down across the trail about a half-mile north of Muskrat Creek. 8 miles round trip

Directions: From Franklin, NC, go West on US64 13.6 miles (from overpass where US23 turns South toward Atlanta) to FS71 Deep Gap Rd. It is the first road to the left past the County Line sign (Clay County). Drive approximately 5 miles on this gravel road (FS 71) to the Deep Gap parking lot.

Another great day for a hike! Sunny, and cool with temperatures ranging from 60-68 degrees F. Hiking distance – 8 miles.

WILDFLOWERS IN BLOOM: Mountain Gentian, White Snakeroot, White Woods Aster, Heart-leafed Aster, Perfoliated Aster, Bushy Aster, White Whorled Aster,Goldenrod, Puttyroot, Heal All, Horse Balm, Spotted Jewelweed, Pale Jewelweed, Indian Plantain, Witch Hazel, Southern Harebells, Ragged Soldier and Ladyfinger.

BIRDS IDENTIFIED: Pileated Woodpecker, Red-shouldered Hawk, Chickadee, American Crow, Raven, Blue Jay, Junco.