A group of six PATC members hiked from the Long Mountain Wayside on U.S. 60 north on the Appalachian Trail over Bald Knob to the summit of Cole Mountain. Although five of the hikers had experienced the Cole Mountain summit before, one hiker, newcomer Aileen had never before experienced the incredible views. The group's veteran hikers included Karen and John Ballen, Nancy Hanley, Margaret Helber, Gracie the Canine Hiking Machine (over 3200 lifetime trail miles), and hike leader Jeff Monroe.
The group hiked uphill with a troop from Richmond, training for Philmont, along with a couple of speedy thru-hikers. Although the summit of Cole Mountain provided for a breezy and somewhat chilly lunch spot, the rest of the hike featured perfect weather.
After summiting Cole Mountain, the group retraced their steps on the Appalachian Trail to Cow Camp Gap, where they headed west on a blue blazed trail not found on many maps. They took this trail to an intersection with an old woods road, which they followed south to Forest Road 520, which took the group back to the Long Mountain Wayside.
Total distance: 10.5 miles
Total Ascent: 3069 feet
Total hike time: 6:07 (moving time: 4:44)
A great time was had by all! Photos below courtesy of Margaret.
