South of Erwin

[skoolbyrd]

I understand there are some great views just South of Johnny's. Wondering if the mileage south of Erwin, say 19W to Erwin, is good for a two-nighter? Also considering Max Patch to Hot Springs. Any comments would be much appreciated!
skoolbyrd

[bigcranky]

19W to Erwin is pretty short, maybe a nice overnighter. If you start at Sam's Gap that makes a nice 2-night 25 miles hike.

Great views along the trail between Sam's Gap and Big Bald, really great views from Big Bald and along the next ridge, very nice views of the river and the railroad tracks as you descend into Erwin.

[10-K]

19W to Erwin is pretty short, maybe a nice overnighter. If you start at Sam's Gap that makes a nice 2-night 25 miles hike.

Great views along the trail between Sam's Gap and Big Bald, really great views from Big Bald and along the next ridge, very nice views of the river and the railroad tracks as you descend into Erwin.

+1 This is an excellent suggestion.

[brian039]

Both of your plans are awesome! Flip a coin.

[10-K]

19W to Erwin is pretty short, maybe a nice overnighter. If you start at Sam's Gap that makes a nice 2-night 25 miles hike.

... oops.. 19W, not 19E...

(I was going to say that it was 50 miles from 19E to Erwin but yeah, 19W to Erwin is just 10 miles.)

[bigcranky]

Yes, and 19-E to Erwin is also a very nice hike, though I think it's better as a 4 or 5 day section.

[skoolbyrd]

Thanks for your input folks. Last fall, we did the Roan Mtn Highlands and I think we came out at 19E near a Hostel. Not sure where exactly where the Hostel shuttle dropped us off though - it was a scenic overlook / parking area. Was thinking about going South this time in the other direction. Looking to keep it under 25 miles since a few of us are Lowcountry flatlanders.

[bigcranky]

Well, Sam's Gap to Erwin would be a great 25 mile hike, then. You can go either way -- you'll be climbing in both directions (of course.) There is parking at Sam's Gap and at Uncle Johnny's in Erwin.

[10-K]

Well, Sam's Gap to Erwin would be a great 25 mile hike, then. You can go either way -- you'll be climbing in both directions (of course.) There is parking at Sam's Gap and at Uncle Johnny's in Erwin.

I would really recommend Sam's Gap to Erwin rather than Erwin to Sam's Gap....

It'd be an easier hike and I think it'd be more fun to finish at UJ's for a soda and snickers bar than to pop out at Sam's Gap looking at I-26.

[Bare Bear]

One thing to consider is how you are getting in and out of the trailheads. You could go to Johnnys and get a shuttle back to Sams Gap and hike to Jonnys then have your vehicle, for example.

[skoolbyrd]

Yep, Sam's Gap to Uncle Johnny's is looking like a good option. Still considering Max PAtch to Hot Springs. I think finishing up at a cool place will be appreciated by the cohorts. Travel time is a secondary issue too.

Much obliged for all y'all's opinions.

[chelko]

I would go Sam's gap to Uncle Johnny's. Easy in easy out great hike.