Thorton Gap to Rock Spring Hut

[twilight]

Wondering if anyone can provide me an idea of what the trail/pathway is like between Thorton Gap and Rock Spring Hut? Is it an easy footway or is it loaded with rocks? I have a big mileage day through this section with about 12 hours of daylight, I hike slow. Any details would be helpful.


Twilight

[johnnybgood]

Heading sobo from Thornton Gap you will right out of gate have rocks for the first mile before reaching the ridgeline.
There are a few rocky areas afterward, nothing really as bad as that initial climb.

[Teacher & Snacktime]

It's part of a path that the NPS designates in their Ranger Explorer program for kids.....how bad can it be?

[Studlintsean]

You hit Mary's rock right out of the gate but it's a nice opener.

[Studlintsean]

Twilight- Any updated information to pass along for this section? Thanks in advance

[twilight]

I'll be heading for my next section hike on Sunday. Won't be to this area until Wed. or Thurs.

Twilight

[Studlintsean]

I hiked this section years ago but might be out there this weekend (pending severe Thunderstorms). If so, I'll report back on it. Any particular info you are looking for?

[twilight]

I was just looking for info on the footpath through this section, I have 15 mile day through there with 12 hours of daylight, but from the other replies to this post it doesn't sound like I have to much to be concerned with.

Twilight

[Studlintsean]

I might have already missed you but I just got back from this section this morning. Woke up to snow this morning so expect cold/wet. As far as the trail its pretty easy hiking but the trail after Skyland and about 2 miles from the shelter is very icy. The ice lasts for about .5 miles. Make sure you carry poles. The roof at Rocksprings is leaking.

[Jim Lynch]

The climb out of Thornton Gap to Mary's Rock is pretty steep, so just be ready for that. The rest of the trail to Rock Spring Hut is fine; minor ups and downs. A pretty section. Stop for lunch at Skyland is a treat. You can eat in the restaurant or in the bar (Mountain Room). A note: the water at Thornton Gap rest room facility has been signed as non-potable until recently. Whatever was the problem is now fixed according to a report from a park person. Plus I was there last Friday and confirmed that the signs are gone.

[twilight]

Thanks for the updates guys. I did find the ice on the way to the shelter, but it was nothing I couldn't get around. I got hit with the snow and high wind my first day out at Tom Floyd's Wayside. Had the park closed for 2 days.


Twilight

[Studlintsean]

Glad you had a nice trip man.