Well, after completing a nearly 15 miler with my wife and daughter from Carvers to 19E, the Kid and I are now going to try Carvers Gap to Erwin. The plan is to attend the ATC Biennial and shuttle up to Carvers on July 3 and start walking south. The walk is approximately 30 miles - give or take.

Its been 5 years since I walked this section in April '00, and I'm certain it will look totally different in it's summer splendor. This will be our final backpack in preperation for our 60-miler on the Colorado Trail at the end of July.

I like the progression of our break-in hikes. 15 miles, 30 miles, and then finally - 60 miles. Hopefully it'll work well.

I'm thinking that if we get an early start on July 3, that we can make Beauty Spot for the 4th of July. Hopefully we'll be able to see from fireworks from the bald. Anybody ever do that from Beauty Spot? Any fond memories of Beauty Spot? I have some from 2000, but that's one snapshot in time.

Other than Unaka Mountain and the firetower (name??) just north or Erwin, what are your highlights of this stretch?

Other than Unaka Mountain and the firetower (name??) just north or Erwin, what are your highlights of this stretch?

I don't recall a firetower north of Erwin. You sure you don't mean Hot Springs?

I remember the final leg up Roan being an *itch.

I also remember the Cherry Gap Shelter and the low overhang. Watched a guy walk right into it and almost knock himself out! :eek:

I don't recall a firetower north of Erwin. You sure you don't mean Hot Springs?



THanks Sly, you're right! It was Hot Springs.

One thing I just recalled. I remember that the climb out of Erwin NOBO was not nearly as bad as I expected. A nice gentle grade as I recall. Nothing like the climb out heading SOBO.