This trail was the most difficult to date of all my day hikes. Due to scheduling and location, I hiked this one out-and-back. The total 10.4 miles with a lot of ascending and descending had me dragging when I made it back to the truck. However, the view at Lane Pinnacle and the solitude made this a rewarding trek.
Tanbark tunnel is located at MP 374.4 on the Blue Ridge Parkway. It is one of the access points to the trails leading up to the remains of Rattlesnake Lodge.
On the west side of the parkway there are actually two spur trails leading up to intersections with the MST. The one on the left leads up the center of Rattlesnake lodge, while the one on the right leads further east (about 0.2miles) to an intersection with the MST at the remains of an old fireplace. Both spur trails are clearly marked with blue blazes.
The tough part for me was the quick elevation of this hike. From the parking area, the trail ascends about 1600 feet in the first 2 miles. At this point, even though the trail follows a ridge, it ascends and descends 3 different peaks before reaching Lane Pinnacle at mile 3.9.
The rock face here offers spectacular views to the east and is a great place to sit and enjoy a break from a challenging hike. There are a couple of other spots for views as well in this area starting around mile 3.7.
Even though it was a beautiful day with mild early-fall temps, I did not see any other hikers on my climb, so I pretty much had the views to myself. After leaving Lane Pinnacle, the trail ascends one more time, before a sharp descent of about 600 feet in the next 1.2 miles to the parking area beside the BRP (Potato Field Gap). This is located at MP 368.2.
Most people who are looking for a short day hike to Lane Pinnacle would probably choose to hike up from the Potato Gap parking area.
The trail is clearly marked, but there are sections that I would consider strenuous. There are some steep rock climbs as well as some wooden ladders to ascend and descend.
Even though the hike up was challenging, my favorite portion is the area of the trail as it ascends above Rattlesnake Lodge. The trail is a steady climb through a low tunnel of Rhododendron and Mountain Laurel. One of the other features of this hike that I really enjoyed was the solitude. As the trail circles above Rattlesnake Lodge it begins to turn back east and eventually goes around the north west side of the ridge. At this point, the MST is away from any roads, so all you have is the sound of the woods, which I find calming and peaceful.
As I said, this one put me to the test. While I am thankful for the challenge, I will probably not do this hike again as an out and back.
Wow, this sounds really tough. So glad you are up and conditioned for such a fulfilling hike.
The photos are so beautiful. Your sharing is the only way we would ever see these beautiful mountain sights.
I look forward to your next trek.
Jack Petty
To be alone, and only hear the sounds of nature has to be a great time for meditating, to hear the voice of the one who created us. May God bless you and give you renewed strength as you continue to experience nature from mountains to the sea. Thank you for sharing. JoAnne
It is a joy to be in His creation – it never ceases to amaze!
Your shared experiences of your “walk in the woods” is always inspiring…. keep going, taking those beautiful pictures, and sharing!
Kimberly
Thank you! It is encouraging to hear.
Tom, Although difficult, it looks like this hike rewarded you with an amazing view and sense of gratitude. Thank you for sharing.
Looking forward to your next blog.
Beverly
Thank you Beverly. It’s always great to hike, no matter how challenging.