This one is an old favorite of the club and can be done in different ways that are all nice--except for the multiple creek crossings that require hiking with wet feet. Much of the route follows the old Little River Lumber Company railroad grade and/or fisherman’s paths along Sams Creek and, after a steep climb ends up on the AT at Starkey Gap. From there one can do an all-trail return or follow the AT 0.7 miles to Sugartree Gap to descend back down to Sams Creek for an off-trail return. Regardless, in good weather this is an enchanting hike and will be largely carpeted with wildflowers in April. It is a moderately difficult off-trail hike, but count on getting wet feet in the several crossings of Sams Creek--we won't have time to stop and change shoes on each one. Distance approx. 9 miles mostly off-trail.