Shining Rock, Haywood County (10-1-13)
Read MoreIvestor Gap Trail -- 5,700'
It was my original intent to revisit the summit of Grassy Cove Top on this hike by following the Art Loeb Trail but the clouds were really starting to thicken up and I really wanted some decent shots from Shining Rock so I decided to bypass it via the Ivestor Gap Trail which would be a flatter and thus quicker route to take...
Shining Rock Gap -- 5,800'
Shining Rock Gap, quite possibly the most confusing trail junction on the ridge. As this is a wilderness area there is no signage so if you arrive here without a map you're gonna have troubles. Even with a map, you may find yourself scratching your head. Here, the Ivestor Gap Trail, which I had been following arrives from the left while the Art Loeb Trail arrives from behind me here, doglegs left along the IGT breifly and continues north. The Old Butt Knob Trail heads straight ahead, that's where I was heading...
Ivestor Gap Trail -- 5,700'
As I've said already, the Mountain Ash is one of my favorite autumn trees due to its showy clumps of red fruit. Though not the tastiest fruit it is edible so, in a pinch, you could have some with no worries. The fruit persists well into winter and thus serves as an important source of food for birds during the lean months...
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on October 10, 2013Absolutely rates as one of my favorite albums! Thanks!!! Being from up north, seeing even a taste of the beautiful maples does this heart good! :)