8/31/2010 Rabun Bald – Bartram Trail – GA

HIKERS: John Bellamy, June Bellamy, Phil Brownrigg, Pam Euliss, Bill Hunt, Jack Jacobi, Dick Metzgar, Jeanne O’Connor, Don Preece, Donna Presley, Tony Presley, Vic Robson and Dan Ross.

TRAIL INFO. – This popular portion of the Bartram Trail is very well maintained and beautiful. The views at Rabun Bald are spectacular with a true 360 degree view of the GA/NC mountains.

Total hiking distance today – 8.4 mi. with lots elevation gain to the summit of Rabun Bald.

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 old Scaly Mtn. Ski Slope at Hale Ridge Rd. Go a couple of miles and turn left onto a continuation of 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! Sunny and cool with temperatures ranging from 57 to 78 degrees F.

FLOWERS IN BLOOM: Woodland Sunflower,Southern Harebells,Joe Pye Weed, False Foxglove, Spiked Lobelia, Goldenglow Sunflower, White Woods Aster, Blue Aster, White Snakeroot, Flowering Spurge, Featherbells, Tall Goldenrod, Wreath Goldenrod, Silverrod, Begger’s Lice, Indian Tobacco, Indian Plantain, Yelllow Star Grass, Flowering Spurge, Horse Balm, Alumroot, Angelica and Dodder.

BIRDS IDENTIFIED: Broad-winged Hawk, Pileated Woodpecker, Chipping Sparrow, Chickadee, Tufted Titmouse and Rough-winged Swallow.