On this classic off-trail exploration we will venture up old manways, rock hop wild creeks, and climb rugged knife edge ridges, much in the same manner as did Jim Thompson when he was scouring the backcountry and taking iconic photographs of the Smokies. Not only was Thompson a nationally renowned photographer but was also a charter member of the SMHC as well as one of the Club's early presidents. In addition, Thompson was instrumental in marking the AT through the eastern end of the Smokies. Starting in Greenbrier we will hike up the Porters Creek Trail, then follow the lower section of the Dry Sluice Manway, before rock hopping up Lester Prong as a prelude to a strenuous scramble up the wildly steep side of Rocky Crag. Once atop "the Pyramid", if the clouds cooperate, we will soak in the wonderful (hopefully colorful) views of the surrounding mountains. Alternating between rock scrambling and bush crawling we will negotiate our way along the narrow knife-edge ridge, eventually reaching the AT. After a short stroll along the AT, we will plunge down the exceedingly steep Dry Sluice Manway to make our way back to our cars. Hike is about 11.5 miles, rated very difficult. Previous off-trail experience required.

Leaders: Kindel Page and Todd Long

To register, contact the leaders directly. You can find contact information in the October 2024 newsletter writeup for this hike.