Today, I headed out to complete Segment 2 of the Mountains of Sea Trail. Segment 2 extends 63.6 miles from Waterrock Knob to Pisgah Inn. This is one of the more rugged sections of the MST as it meanders back and forth near the Blue Ridge Parkway. Much of Segment 2 traverses above 5000’ in elevation, with rocky paths and spectacular vistas.
Continue reading “MST: Old Bald Access to Bear Pen Gap Overlook (MST Seg 2)”
This past weekend I set out on an attempt to complete my remaining miles of Segment 2 of the Mountains to Sea Trail. However, just like the past few months, things do not always go as planned. This was my first hike in over two months, having been saddled with unexpected diversions from work and health. The leaves were beginning to turn and the cool air was inviting me back out, and I could not wait to hit the trail. My plan was to break up my remaining 33 miles from Fork Ridge Overlook to Bear Pen Gap into 3 day hikes, increasing in complexity and mileage.
Continue reading “MST: Fork Ridge Overlook to Old Bald Access (Segment 2)”
Today’s forecast was for a slight ease in the temperatures, so I took the opportunity this morning to continue my MST hikes in Segment 2. My plan was to hike westbound from the Rough Butt Bald Overlook to Bear Pen Gap. My initial idea was to do an out-and-back for about 10 miles. However, one thing that I am stubbornly learning is that hiking requires flexibility and being willing to yield to your body’s limitations.
Continue reading “MST: Rough Butt Bald Overlook to Bear Pen Gap”
Having the flexibility and willingness to take a small diversion can sometimes turn a good hike into a great hike. I was headed out to complete a small section of the Mountains to Sea Trail in Segment 2 but was fortunate to have the opportunity to explore Fork Ridge Meadows. My initial plan was to begin hiking westward at the MST trailhead off NC 215 and do an out and back to Buckeye Gap (near the Blue Ridge Parkway and Rough Butt Bald Overlook – MP 427).
Continue reading “MST: Middle Prong Wilderness and Fork Ridge Meadows”
Today I continued my day hiking of Segment 3 of the Mountains to Sea Trail. This was a short hike, out-and-back from Glassmine Falls Overlook to Walker Knob. This is an easily accessible hike from the Blue Ridge Parkway (MP 361.2).
Continue reading “MST: Glassmine Falls Overlook to Walker Knob”