View Full Version : How is the climb up to Snowbird Mtn
Chaco Taco
06-17-2007, 23:42
I see the grade up to Snowbird out of Standing Bear, but I want to know, how tough is it really?
wilconow
06-18-2007, 01:01
long, but lots of switchbacks and flat spots
It's pretty similar to the other big upgrades in the area. If you're feeling strong, the day isn't too hot, and your pack isn't too heavy, it's not bad.
If you're tired, out of shape, it's really hot out, and/or your pack is really heavy, you'll stop once or twice and sit there on a log wondering why you thought this hiking thing was a good idea.
Marta/Five-Leaf
Chaco Taco
06-18-2007, 08:52
Sounds like when I did the first climb out of Fontana. I was not ready for that mess especially when it was 60 degrees and I had packed for cold temps. Thanks for the info.
Also, what are some of the highlights or "secrets" of the trail from Max Patch to Erwin?
wilconow
06-18-2007, 10:45
Also, what are some of the highlights or "secrets" of the trail from Max Patch to Erwin?
if the weather is good, you can take the exposed ridge trail (new AT) as opposed to the bad weather trail (old AT). i believe this is between the little laurel shelter and rich mountain fire tower.
speaking of, rich mountain fire tower has a 360 view. for me, with the noisy communication tower nearby and being on a man made structure isnt the same as say, max patch, but the views are really good just the same
the hemlock hollow hostel, little north of hot springs is .5+ walk each way, but has good backpacking resupply
view my gallery for photos.. i did spivey gap south to standing bear a few weeks ago
Lone Wolf
06-18-2007, 10:55
I see the grade up to Snowbird out of Standing Bear, but I want to know, how tough is it really?
not tough at all. unless you're 250 lbs. just off the couch. just a steady up with some switchbacks
white rabbit
06-18-2007, 12:39
It's long and steady. No big deal. The top of Snowbird has been recently clear cut. There is an FAA radar system on top.
Its not that bad, the bad part is in between Snowbird and Max Patch, especially the drop and climb out of Groundhog Creek Shelter.
Rain Man
06-18-2007, 15:41
speaking of, rich mountain fire tower has a 360 view. for me, with the noisy communication tower nearby and being on a man made structure isnt the same as say, max patch, but the views are really good just the same
As far as Snowbird, I'd need to know the time of year to answer your question. Wife and I did it over a Thanksgiving, and I spent a great deal of time beating snow off drooping rhododendron, which completely blocked the trail. Except for that, not a bad climb. But bitter cold on top in the wind, for us.
For what it's worth, on a later trip, wife and I camped under the Rich Mountain fire tower, just north of Hot Springs. But to my knowledge it has since been taken down, and if so, thus there goes your 360 degree view.
Rain:sunMan
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wilconow
06-18-2007, 15:48
As far as Snowbird, I'd need to know the time of year to answer your question. Wife and I did it over a Thanksgiving, and I spent a great deal of time beating snow off drooping rhododendron, which completely blocked the trail. Except for that, not a bad climb. But bitter cold on top in the wind, for us.
For what it's worth, on a later trip, wife and I camped under the Rich Mountain fire tower, just north of Hot Springs. But to my knowledge it has since been taken down, and if so, thus there goes your 360 degree view.
Rain:sunMan
.
i was up on rich mountain fire tower a few weeks ago. excellent 360 view.
there's a dirt road that goes up there, so some partiers may come by at night.
you could sleep up there, and there's also a good campsite with a stone picnic table near the base of the tower.
GBlaylock
06-18-2007, 17:23
I did Davenport Gap to Allen Gap about 10 days ago. The picnic table at the fire tower is gone; lots of trash around the site, must be a party spot for the locals.
Beautiful walk between Max Patch and Lemon Gap.
wilconow
06-18-2007, 17:37
I did Davenport Gap to Allen Gap about 10 days ago. The picnic table at the fire tower is gone; lots of trash around the site, must be a party spot for the locals.
Beautiful walk between Max Patch and Lemon Gap.
hmm... i guess since the weather is getting nicer more and more people are going up. we were there on wed. may 30th. there were a few rowdy folks who came by to the firetower at night, but they left us alone and didnt stay overnight. with the road, i guess that brings more of the locals in the summertime
there's a really nice campsite on the AT, before you turn off to rich mountain.. with a little spring. it's about a half mile walk to the firetower. if i had to do it over again, id probably camp at the spot right off the AT and then go up the firetower to watch the sun set. the locals made me a bit uneasy, plus they were just loud.