To begin this totally off-trail hike, we clamber around the hiker/horse bridge at the end of the Tremont road to the east side of Lynn Camp Prong, to and through the site of the old Tremont Hotel, and then climb steeply through the woods. After gaining 400 ft of elevation, we reach the long abandoned CCC trail that will take us ~3 miles around the ridges and hollows of Meigs Mountain to Upper Buckhorn Gap. This abandoned trail segment used to connect with the Meigs Mountain Trail at Upper Buckhorn Gap, but we are avoiding all official trails today. The fun really starts as we climb 800 vertical feet straight up the side of Meigs Mountain. With most of the leaves off in early November, there should be nice views at the top of the ridge. After pausing at the top, we plunge down the south slope through greenbriar and then rhododendron. Just when it seems the rhodo is going to be unbearable, we realize we have reached the 100-year-old Marks Cove RR grade of the Little River Lumber Company. This RR grade provides a good path back down Marks Creek to Lynn Camp Prong. However, depending on timing, we'll explore in Marks Cove a little before heading back. For those who are not interested in the steep up and down across the top of Meigs mountain but would like to do the old CCC trail, you can arrange with the leaders to meet you at the West Prong trailhead parking near the Tremont Institute so that you can use the official Meigs Mountain and Lumber Ridge trails to get back to your car. About 8 miles with ~2200 ft ascent and descent, rated difficult.

Leaders: Mike Harrington and Steve Dickinson

To register, contact the leader directly via email, text or phone. You can find contact information in the November 2022 newsletter writeup for this hike.