another standing indian loop question

[misterfloyd]

Hello to all,

I will be doing a work related seminar the first week of March in Cullowee, NC. Since I'm in this neck of the woods I was going to go to outdoor 76 and wanted to know more info about the Standing Indian Loop.

What trails do they encompass? I have a bunch of Pisgah NF maps but none for Natahala.

I have hiked the AT in this area before and this area is gorgeous.

Any information regarding milage, trails, maps would be appreciated.

BTW since I'm thinking beginning of March, does this line me up smak in the middle of the thru-bubble?

Thank you
Floyd

[saltysack]

Great 24 mile loop..done several times..
Park at back country kiosk just past campground. Directly across road from kiosk is long branch trail ....hike lil over 2 miles up it intersects AT at glassmine gap... Go rt(south) aprox 16-18 miles to deep gap...take Kimsey creek on rt down to campground....great 2,3 day trip...I usually hike 12 miles to carter gap shelter then finish next day but if have plenty of time there is great tent spot atop standing mtn....


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[misterfloyd]

Salty,

Thanks for the info.

I really love that area and that fire tower on Albert is my favorite at this point.

I'm gonna try to make time for this... I need it!!!

Thanks again,

Floyd

[daddytwosticks]

Salty had the best suggestion. Going that way will have you walking down the wetter Kimsey Creek Trail right at the end of your hike. I bet you will see quite a few thru hikers, especially hiking southbound! Enjoy your hike. :)

[saltysack]

If u want to cut 2-3 miles off u can take lower ridge trail before deep gap back to campground.


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[misterfloyd]

Thanks guys for the info.

If I can't do it the first week, I will do it in March that is certain...

Best,
Floyd

[mississippi_dan]

Here is a scan from the Standing Indian Mtn area. The AT makes a large horseshoe bend around the upper Nantahala River. Several loop hike can be made from the Standing Indian campground. On this scan some of the AT trail is missing near Albert Mtn on the east side.
Dan

29969

[misterfloyd]

Dan,

Thanks for the map!!

I hiked the area from springer to fontana, I simply missed the fact that the AT doubles back. I guess you miss a lot when you are following the blazes. I really remember this as being one of my favorite places.

Many thanks for the JPG!!!