Hiking and Clearing the Way on the Scott Ridge Light Loop

Type of Outing: Hike, Other
When: THU 11/5/2026 9:00 AM
Signup Deadline: 11/4/2026 5:00 pm
Leader: Vance Barron
Distance: 7 miles
Difficulty: R-18, Easy
Intended Pace: Medium
Elevation Gain: 1106 ft.
Description: This loop hike, sometimes called Scott Ridge Light, begins and ends at the Blue Ridge Parkway and Mahogany Rock Road ("Deep Gap Gate Parking Area" on Google Maps). The primary purpose of the hike, in addition to enjoying a beautiful fall day in the mountains, is to prune overgrowth on the unmarked connector trail between the MST and Devil's Garden on Scott Ridge. The connector is 0.7 mile and is suffering from neglect because it is no longer maintained as an official trail. Mountain laurel branches are encroaching on the trail, which is also blocked by some small downed trees that can be easily sawn and removed. Hikers should bring a pruning lopper or saw or both. The long-range forecast is for good weather. Many PHOC hikers love this trail. We will leave it better than we found it!
Required Gear: Pruning lopper and/or pruning saw, work gloves, lunch, and water