View Full Version : Parking at Rock Gap
Anyone know about the safety of leaving a car at Rock Gap (NC) for a few days? There looks to be parking near the shelter.
Ron Haven
03-19-2009, 16:51
Stump,that road is patroled regularly by gov personell.I have never heard of a car being vandalized there.If you would feel better I would let you park your car at one of my motels free in Franklin.That is for any other hiker short hiking in this ares.
We just left our car parked there for 3 days a couple weeks ago, along with another friend. All cars were fine!
Without knowing where you're going, the best advise is hard to nail. If you're doing 'the Standing Indian loop,' a better place to park is down the road past Rock Gap at the Backcountry Parking lot just outside Standing Indian Campground (where the pavement ends). The Long Branch trail is 2 miles up to the AT at Glassmine Gap.
If 'the loop' is your itinerary, search 'standing indian' on WB and you'll get a lot of answers to most of the questions you're likely to ask. I would highly recommend working Ron Haven's suggestion into your plans too, as he's one heck of a nice guy . . . call the chance to meet him a 'side trail.' :)
Thanks, everybody. Thanks, Ron, for the offer. I'll be in touch if we decide to take you up on your offer.
max patch
03-23-2009, 09:12
Without knowing where you're going, the best advise is hard to nail. If you're doing 'the Standing Indian loop,' a better place to park is down the road past Rock Gap at the Backcountry Parking lot just outside Standing Indian Campground (where the pavement ends). The Long Branch trail is 2 miles up to the AT at Glassmine Gap.
And a better place than that would be inside Standing Indian Campground (with permission).
The best option, RSC, doesn't exist anymore.
I parked there in 97 for 9 days, no problems.
Again in 2000 for 5 days, again no problem.
The parking lot holds about 8 cars & is 50 yards from the shelter (give or take a few)
That is a nice area, one of my favorites on the AT, have fun! My 2nd favorite trail (after the AT) is the Kimsey creek trail.
And a better place than that would be inside Standing Indian Campground (with permission).I disagree: their 'permission' comes with a parking fee. I have parked at the backcountry parking lot many times and never had any vandalism. No need to pay a fee to be inside the campground. In fact, kids playing could increase the vandalism risk inside.
And a better place than that would be inside Standing Indian Campground (with permission).
The best option, RSC, doesn't exist anymore.
You don't need permission for the backcountry camping parking area and there is no fee. You pay a fee if you go inside the campground area to park.