October 12, 2021
AT-Gooch Gap to Beyond Justus Creek
Although we started with some fog and continued with cloudy skies throughout the hike, the temperatures were mild, around 60 degrees, and the trail was in very good condition. This is an easy hike with mostly very gradual hills. There are two, rock-to-rock, water crossings. Not a lot of views with the leaves still on the trees and not many wildflowers being mid-October. One exception to the wildflowers were a fair amount of Showy Gentian in bud, but not fully open due to the limited sunlight of the day. However, extensive rains brought out lots of beautiful fungus. One item to remember for this hike, the AT has been relocated a bit up the Blue Ridge Road (FS-42) rather than where shown on AllTrails.
The route
7.0 mi · 1,227 ft climbing · 4h 28m out, 3h 49m walking · 1.8 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 (16)
The widest water crossing at Justus Creek. Today's Hikers (L-R): Ray, Jim, Jenny, Ken, Lynn, Greta, Gary, Doris, Angela, Christine, Grnee, Linda, Gerald, Vic & Mike Getting organized at Gooch Gap. Trail sign at the start of the hike. A bit foggy at the start of our hike. First water crossing at Blackwell Creek. Headed down to the second water crossing across Justus Creek.. Ken helping folks across Justus Creek. A few patches of Ground Cedar along the way. A few bits of Blue Wood Aster still remaining along the trail. A good amount of Showy Gentian along the trail. Too bad, it wasn't sunnier to see the open blooms. Lots of beautiful fungus. A surprise showing of the fruit of Jack-in-the-Pulpit! Headed back . . . Viv, did you find that painted rock from last year? Some very large and gnarly trees towering above us on the last part of the return leg. Anybody home?