October 10, 2023
AT to Cowrock, Wolf Laurel Top and Wildcat Mtn.
Another "great day for a hike" with cool, fall temperatures and mostly sunny skies. This section of the AT is well-maintained, but the first mile of the hike up Cowrock Mtn. is a bit strenuous with a steep and rocky climb. The rest of the hike to Wolf Laurel Top is not difficult at all. After our return to Tesnatee Gap, two hikers continued up the yet steeper Wildcat Mountain and along the Whitney Gap Shelter Trail to two additional overlooks . There were still a few late season wildflowers dominated by Blue and White Asters. While fall was not in full display, there were hints of fall colors at the higher elevations.
Today's hikers: Ken Kellerman & Cutie Pie, Jack Treadman, Edwin Pruitt, Rich Brown, Matt Henderson, Jim Driggers, Jane Brown & Squirt, Gerald Richardson, Gita Patel, Lynn Steele, Shelia Getman, Heather Wall & Toby, Jenny Bell and Mike Bell.
The route
7.3 mi · 2,047 ft climbing · 4h 56m out, 3h 52m walking · 1.9 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%
27 photos are shown on the map where they were taken — click one to see it full size.
Photos (29)
A view of Cow Rock Mtn. from Wildcat Mtn. at an overlook on the Whitney Gap Trail. Today's hikers (L-R) Back: Ken & Cutie Pie, Jack, Edwin, Rich, Matt, Jim, Jane, Gerald, Gita & Lynn. Front: Shelia, Heather & Toby, Squirt & Jenny and Mike. Gathering at Tesnatee Gap Squirt and Cutie Pie are anxious to get started. Up those first set of steps! More wildflowers than we expected, but looking a bit tired. A first view of the valley east of Cowrock Mtn. Filmy Angelica (top) and Snakeroot (bottom) are eye catchers. The sun creates a serene view coming through the tops of the trees. Still climbing! Lots or rocks on this section of the trail. A beautiful view from the trail above Cowrock. Surprised to see the fruit of Solomon's Seal still hanging on. Another view of Cowrock Mtn. as we head over to Wolf Laurel Top. A short break at Wolf Laurel Top. A view to the south from Wolf Laurel Top. Toby is having a good time on Wolf Laurel Top. Some fall colors of Oaks and Maples showing up on Cowrock Mtn. Lunch on the Cowrock Overlook. A view to the south from Cowrock Overlook. Headed back. A curious sight with a stack of mushrooms in the hollow of this tree. Appalachian or Showy Gentian seen periodically along the trail. Signage at Tesnatee Gap as we start our climb up Wildcat Mtn. A striking rock formation on our way up Wildcat Mtn. used extensively as a campsite by AT hikers. Heather and I taking a selfie along Wildcat Mtn. with Cowrock Mtn. in the background Heather leading me along the Whatley Gap Shelter Trail to more great views. What brilliant red color of this Pinesap! This beautiful view from the Whatley Gap Shelter Trail. It was worth the extra two miles of this hike. You never know who you will meet on the trail!