August 23, 2022
Siler Bald Loop
near Franklin, NC
A really nice day for a hike with pleasant weather and great views atop Siler Bald. The trail was in fair condition but showed its constant use on the first mile of the AT with lots of exposed roots. We tried this loop as an alternate hike to avoid doubling back on the AT from Siler Bald and avoiding the terribly rocky connector trail between Siler Bald and the Siler Bald shelter. We were surprised by the large variety of wildflowers today and saw a couple of new wildflowers too. This hike could easily be lengthened by going further southward on the AT.
TODAY'S HIKERS: Angela Evans, John Cape, Vic Robson, Lynn Steele, Ray Lovett, Gerald Richardson, Jenny Bell, Jack Tredman, Beth McDonald, Mike Jones & Mike Bell.
The route
5.0 mi · 1,280 ft climbing · 3h 47m out, 3h 7m walking · 1.6 mph moving
Elevation
Hover over the profile to see the elevation and steepness. Your position will be shown on the map.
- Steepness
- Gentle under 5%
- Moderate 5–10%
- Steep 10–15%
- Very steep over 15%
28 photos are shown on the map where they were taken — click one to see it full size.
Photos (29)
A view to the North from Siler Bald. Today's hikers (L-R)-Back: Angela, John, Lynn, Ray, Jack & Mike Jones. Front: Vic, Gerald, Jenny, Beth & Mike. Trailhead for Siler Bald too! Headed out with the first 2 miles being mostly up. A small bridge across a drainage swale. Typical rooty section of the AT on the first mile. Headed up Siler Bald. Great views to the north! And great views to the south! Yep! We're here! Headed down Siler Bald. Another beautiful view! Lots of fungi today. Spotted and Pale Jewelweed Colorful bloom stalk of the Umbrella Leaf. Wood Aster. A young example of Dodder. Wildflower fruit (top clockwise) Baneberry (Doll's Eyes), Indian Cucumber & False Soloman's Seal. Heal-all Downy Phlox Trail signs along the way. Looks like, but most likely not, an Indian pointing tree. . . Right Heather? Turtlehead Bee balm Surprised to see this Fire Pink today! Easter Featherbells ??? Here's a new one for us, Gallant Soldier (Galinsoga parviflora) Tall Tickseed Coreopsis Common yarrow. Headed back . . almost there.