Rhododendron Hike, Appalachian Trail

Type of Outing: Hike
When: SAT 6/8/2024
Signup Deadline: 5:00 pm
Leader: Clare Strayhorn
Distance: 11 miles
Difficulty: R-28, Strenuous
Elevation Gain: 1,600 ft.
Description:  Want to see ponies, views, pink Catawba rhododendrons (hopefully blooming at this time), mountain laurels while enjoying a moderately strenuous hike on some rocky terrain, then this hike at the “very scenic” Grayson Highlands is for you. From Massie Gap, we’ll proceed to the pony meadow and join the Appalachian Trail and head south to Rhododendron Gap, past the Thomas Knob shelter, the Mt. Rogers Spur Trail, finally arriving at the Cabin Ridge overlook area where we will have lunch. On the outward journey, there will be a snack break at Rhododendron Gap where 360 views of the surrounding area can be enjoyed from the large rocky outcrop next to the trail. After lunch we will head back on the AT to the Gap, and then pick up the Rhododendron Trail which will take us back to the parking area. Carpooling will be available from Carolina Diner, Greensboro, at 7 am, and from McDonalds, Jonestown (Winston-Salem) at 7:30 am. For those going directly to the trailhead, please plan to meet at Massie Gap parking area at 9:30 am. There is a charge to get into the park ($10 per car). This out and back hike is about 11 miles, and about 1800 feet elev. [R-33]