December 5, 2023
AT - Dick's Creek Gap to Deep Gap Shelter
near Hiawassee, GA.
It was a cool, 37-47 degrees, but mostly sunny day with moderate winds on the north slopes and gaps meaning we kept our coats and gloves on for most of the hike. While the first 2.3 miles was all uphill, it seemed like the return 0.7 mile incline out of the Deep Gap Shelter was more challenging. The trail was in very good condition, but still required careful footing with the usual rocks and roots expected of the AT. There were almost continual distant vistas through the leafless trees along most of our route. Another "great day for a hike!"
Today's hikers: Ken Kellerman & Cutie Pie, Renée Corbett, Don Pratt, Terre Pratt, Gerald Richardson, Lynn Steele, Edwin Pruitt, Jenny Bell, Pam Hembree & Mike Bell.
The route
8.4 mi · 2,139 ft climbing · 5h 15m out, 4h 15m walking · 2.0 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%
15 photos are shown on the map where they were taken — click one to see it full size.
Photos (15)
That's where we're headed today. Today's hikers (L-R): Ken, Cutie Pie, Renee, Don, Terre, Gerald, Lynn, Edwin, Jenny, Pam & Mike Our starting point. Nice trail for the most part although uphill for the first 2.3 miles Cutie Pie, "Trail Dog of the Day!" He would give the Eveready Bunny a run for the money! These seed pods were the closest thing to flowering wildflowers but still pretty in their own way. Yes, I'm always fascinated by unusual tree forms. A beautiful view from the vista at 2.8 miles At the turnoff to Deep Gap Shelter. Lunch at the shelter. The sun began to come out and warm us up. Nice! More climbing than we remembered on our way back. One of the many passing views easily missed when you keep looking at the trail most of the time. It was a bit of an enchanted forest in places. Hey you! This is a "toll trail." One hickory nut per hiker! And as a bonus at the end of the hike, we're throwing in a brief stop at this lovely cascade . . . look closely, there is water flowing over that rock.