by Julie Dodd
Challenge was the key theme for the May Classic Hike of the Smokies to Hyatt Ridge.
The hike was 9.5 miles, starting with a steep climb, gaining 1,500 feet in less than two miles. Due to the elevation, the hikers saw wildflowers, including trillium and umbrella plants, that finished blooming in March at lower evaluations.
Lunch was at Campsite #44, with the return hike on Beech Gap Trail.
Danny Bernstein led the guided hike. You can read more about the hike on her blog.
Even getting to the trailhead is a challenge. Here are some tips if you are interested in doing this hike.
Plan for more drive time than you might think you need. This trailhead is remote. Be sure you have plenty of gas in your car.
Take Big Cove Road in Cherokee and then turn right on Straight Fork Road. If you cross the metal span bridge on Straight Fork Road, you’ve missed the trailhead. Also, after the bridge Straight Fork becomes a one-way road. Don’t cross the bridge if you don’t have to in your car, as you will have to drive the entire Straight Fork Road to get out of the Park.
If you do the hike of Hyatt Ridge to Beech Gap Trail, you will end on Straight Fork Road and will walk back to your car, crossing the metal span bridge.
Thanks to Linda Spangler for sharing photos of the hike.
The next Classic Hike is June 14 to Charlies Bunion/Kephart Prong. Please sign up in advance for the hike at hike.friendsofthesmokies.org