Trip suggestions???

“Hi, I am trying to plan a two-week trip from Toronto Canada through the Appalachians down to Savannah. I have been through this area as a kid, but now I'm looking for some backcountry jems in PA, NC, SC, WV, or Virginia.

My net search is not very fruitful as of yet, but I'd really like to find some really interesting spots like high peaks or good waterfalls. Does anyone have any experience or suggestions?

Thanks”

“Sounds like your driving down to Savannah? What exactly are you looking for? Backpacking spots for weekends and such?

Once your down to VA and NC you can drive the Blue Ridge Parkway and theres tons of stuff along it.

NC: Mt. Mitchell State Park, the Great Smoky Mtn National Park, Joyce Kilmer Wilderness Area (a little more off the beaten path, but worth the extra drive)

tons of others too. All those spots have great backcountry opportunity, trail networks and you should be able to find some info on the net for all of them. Hope that helps a little.”

“Roam Around, thanks for replying. Yes, I am driving to Savannah, and I am looking for some interesting spots along the way for a few nights. I wouldn't mind doing a few smaller trips, or one bigger one.

I read a bit about the Blue Ridge Parkway and am wondering whether there are many places to hike into. Are there any 5000-ft peaks along the way that I could ascend?

The Joyce Kilmer Wilderness Area sounds like an interesting spot. I am looking for something remote and not too populated. When you have two weeks off per year, you really want to get away! Any other suggestions?

Aleksandra”

“check out the Black Mountain Ballbuster thread, you might find it easier on the trips page, theres a thread there that talks about the 6,000 + peaks.

Also, theres a trip in Sept called the Plott Balsam Sixers with a thread that might lead you to some info on those tall ones.

Both of these are in NC. Mt. Mitchell is in the Pisgah National Forest but the Plott Balsams are in the Nantahala NF.

Another good spot with some high mts is the Shining Rock Wilderness. Its not quite as remote as Joyce Kilmer, but its pretty darn nice.”