Jan 24 A Fine Day on Cammerer

It is the first day of the 3rd annual Winter Hike Week, sponsored by SEFTC. Today we carpooled from Pigeon Forge to Cosby campground for the start of our hike. The campground access road had been closed but is open today. There was a 1/2 mile long section which was one lane while some fallen trees were being removed.

Starting on the the Low Gap Trail, we walked along easy terrain for about 15 minutes before the gradient kicked up. And it didn't relent until we reached the gap. It is only a 2.5 mile long trail but it takes a bit of effort to make it to the gap. The trail took its usual toll on hikers as we spread out. There was probably a 20 minute spread between lead and sweep. We had many seasoned hikers, so I swept and told the others to blaze ahead all the way to the tower. 

Early arrivals at the tower stake out prime lunch spots. I noted new shingles on the structure. The floor and door are in need of repair but it appears someone is trying to maintain this beautiful structure. I estimate I have been on this hike about 10 times going back to 1993 before it had its most recent facelift.

The 360 degree view is spectacular. The Pigeon River gorge and I-40 dominate the view from Northeast to Northwest. Max Patch is there as well. To the east is Mount Sterling. The tower on Sterling is just a little bump. 

Most of our group lingers over lunch as we await the final two arrivals. I am relieved to see them show up. Sandy phones her husband to leave a message, wishing him a happy anniversary from atop Mt Cammerer and glad he is not there. I don't know what that last part was all about but I'm sure it made sense. 

There was a dusting of snow on the mountain. This portion of our hike is on the AT. One of our group, Kathy walked right past the Mt Cammerer spur trail on her AT hike. So, she was delighted to have the opportunity to visit it today.

Galax sunning itself

Everyone made the entire hike without major difficulty. However, no one seemed to want to join me the following day to Ramsay Cascade. all opting for shorter hikes.

Many of the photos above were taken by Wendy Fish. She was the one with the huge camera and lens.