August 12, 2020
AT - Hogpen Gap to Sheep Rock Top
This was an enjoyable hike on a section of the AT that this group does not usually hike. While not a lot of scenic views, the trail had lots of color from numerous wildflowers. The trail is in fair condition with a mix of footing with and without the usual rocks and roots. While there is one long section of incline on the return path, the overall difficulty is moderate. There is a fair amount of poison ivy along the path to avoid. We had clear skies with temperatures ranged from 68℉ to near 80℉ and humid. However, the high overcover helped keep us reasonably cool.
The route
7.9 mi · 1,558 ft climbing · 4h 59m out, 4h 34m walking · 1.7 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%
Photos (31)
Trailhead at Hogpen Gap Evening Primrose (Oenothera biennis) Mark Trail Wilderness Sign at trail start Pale Jewelweed throughout trail (saratogawoodswaters.blogspot.com) Woodland Phlox Hairy Angelica (Angelica venenosa) Black-eyed Susan Sunflower ? Flowering Spurge (Euphorbia corrllata) Carolina lily (Lilium michauxii) Starry Campion (Silene stellata) Beggar's Lice - a.k.a. Tick-trefoil Tall Bellflower (Campanula americana) Heal-all (Prunella vulgaris) Tall Bellflower (Campanula americana) Carolina lily (Lilium michauxii) White Baneberry/Doll's Eyes (Actaea pachypoda) St. John's Wort ? Tall Thimbleweed (Anemone virginiana) Group Photo at Sheep Rock Top Spiderwort (Tradescantia subaspera) Typical Trail Conditions - AT: Hogpen Gap to Unicoi Gap St. Johnswort