Three Ridges - Mau Har Circuit

Dave and Michael at Three Ridges Wilderness border

Six hikers came out for the mid-week hike on July 16.  The outing had to be postponed from the day before due to a funeral attended by hike leader, Marit Gay.  Unfortunately this reschedule left out Emily Whitworth and Mike Smith, but the other hikers were able to make the second date, including Dave Borszich, Michael Seth, Anne Colgate, Kelly O'Rourke, and Mark Perschel.

We met at Reed's Gap and walked the AT south to Maupin Field Shelter intersection, snacked, then proceeded to the Three Ridges Trail. Climbing toward the summit the view from Hanging Rock  was spectacular on an ideal day of cool, breezy weather.  Everyone indulged in their healthy lunches followed by homemade chubby chews at Hanging Rock.

The hike continued down towards Chimney Rock with many consultations with Michael and Anne about wildflowers and other plants.  Columbine, Turk's Cap lily, and  jewel weed were just a few of the many species we saw.

Kelly, Marit, and Anne rest at Chimney Rock

Campanula, otherwise known as bellflower

Eventually we reached Harpers Creek Shelter and finally the Mau Har Trail as we climbed back north and upward Campbell's Creek.  The water was quite low making the stream crossings easy, and the stinging nettles were not as troublesome as we had anticipated.  When we made it by the Maupin Field Shelter we met a German AT thru hiker and a section hiker preparing their dinner.  It was a long, but wonderful day - 13 miles - as we returned back to Reed's Gap.