Hi there
The Hiking Group has been quiet since the New Year. Except for one crazy couple keeping the groupme alive with some 20 mile days through some wicked cold weather. Keep it up you two!
I just got back from a 2 night backpacking trip through central Florida. Solo trip. For me the time away represents two things… A way to celebrate some exciting personal life news AND a preview of springtime! (75deg days and cool nights). Feeling thawed out and ready for some time outdoors with you good people.
Upcoming Events
20260222 - Red Top Mountain State Park Run
20260228 - Bob Stratton’s Bald
Red Top Mountain Trail Run | 20260222 @ 1500
🌳 Adventure Details
📍 Location & Meeting
Meet at the Iron Hill Trail Loop Parking (coordinates: 34.13949937, -84.700327175)
02:30 PM – Arrival and parking (daily fee: $5 or use the GA State Park pass)
03:00 PM – Begin the run
🚶♂️ Run – Iron Hill Loop Trail
Distance: ~3.9 miles moderate loop
Pace: ~12:00 / mi. A social pace.
This scenic trail is a loop that winds along the banks of the lake through a historic area that was once home to an active iron mining community in the mid 1800s.
🗺️ Helpful Resources
Check the official trail map here
Park info and trail descriptions available on the Georgia State Parks website
Bob Stratton’s Bald | 20260228 @ 0830
📍 Location & Meeting
Meet at the Bob Stratton Bald / Hangover trailhead area
Coordinates: 35.34833038537328, -84.03848986146974
Tentative Plan (TBD based on group + camping):
• Night Before - Optional camping (cost split between attendees)
• Morning - Arrive at 0830, hike at 0900
Distance from Atlanta: ~3 hr 20 min drive
🚶♂️ Hike – Bob Stratton Bald → Hangover Loop
Distance: 12.1 miles
Elevation Gain: 2,444 ft
Estimated Time: ~7 hours moving time
AllTrails: Bob Stratton’s Bald and Hangover
This is a strenuous hike with lots of elevation gain. I am training for a trip to the Grand Canyon, so THG is kicking it up a few gears. Please spend a moment in deep reflection. “Have I hiked a hike like this before? Am I confident I will be able to conquer that sort of climb and distance?” We expect to keep an uptempo pace between 2.5-3.0 mph.
This is a big scenic Cherohala / Joyce Kilmer area hike featuring ridge walking, bald views, and classic southern Appalachian backcountry terrain. Expect a full-day effort with strong payoff views.
⛺ Logistics Notes
• Gauging tentative YES interest right now
• Camping the night before is likely if enough people are in
• If camping, looking for willingness to split campsite cost
Reply to this email, text, or send a carrier pigeon to RSVP. invite a friend!