Explorer Loop Trail (#337)
Read MoreExplorer Loop/Pine Tree Connector Trail Junction -- 2,230'
The junction with the Pine Tree Connector Trail marks the eastern extremity of the Explorer Loop which circles the southwestern portion of the Bent Creek Forest. Though you can go either direction from here, the album will follow the loop clockwise and will return to this spot in about 3 miles...
Explorer Loop/Sleepy Gap Trail Junction -- 2,370'
Four-tenths of mile up from the Pine Tree Connector, the Explorer Loop passes its junction with the Sleepy Gap Trail, which arrives down the ridge from the left...
Explorer Loop/Explorer Loop Connector Trail Upper Junction -- 2,390'
Here the main loop passes its junction with the Explorer Loop Connector Trail (behind out of frame), which offers the opportunity to cut the Explorer Loop from three miles down to two. The Explorer Loop itself switches back (as seen here) to climb briefly...
Explorer Loop/Chestnut Cove Trail Junction -- 2,590'
The view if arriving at the junction with the Chestnut Cove Trail, in case you decide to travel the loop in a counter-clockwise direction...
Explorer Loop Trail/F.R. 479H Upper Junction -- 2,430'
Here the Explorer Loop reaches its southern junction with gated Forest Road 479H. The trail takes a right here, heading north, following the road for a short time...
Explorer Loop Trail/F.R. 479H Upper Junction -- 2,420'
Turning north onto Forest Road 479H...
Explorer Loop Trail/F.R. 479H -- 2,380'
For the next three-tenths of a mile the Explorer Loop coincides with Forest Road 479H, making a beeline to the north...