The weather this weekend looked promising (by which I mean warm, as opposed to those Roan Mountain folks looking for Higher & Colder).
Both Bonepile & Firebird were able to join me on an overnight trip to Doughton Park. Great company made it all the more enjoyable.
February is a great time for this area, as there is very little traffic on the Blue Ridge.
In fact, most of the time the road closes just north of this area due to a waterfall that deposits ice on the road. The warmer weather did result in the Blue Ridge being open, but it was still quiet.
Day 1 - We parked at Alligator Back overlook on the Blue Ridge, and started with a brisk climb up Bluff Mountain. We then hit the balds, soaking in the sun & views until we hit Brinegar cabin.
From there we proceeded down (approx 2000') the Cedar Ridge Trail, and back up to Basin Cove camping.
The camping area is ok - they now have 8 spots, all next to each other. We would have preferred more solitude, but it is the only game in town (permits are required). Bedtime for all started around 7 pm
Day 2 - After a 32 degree night with stars and the moon shining, we got up around 7 am - putting us in the 12 hour club. Not sure how you folks in the north handle even longer nights. We headed up the Grassy Gap Road/Trail, and were surprised by having creeks near us most of the way. We saw a number of chimneys from old homesteads. After gaining the ridge and more great views, we headed back to our cars.
GPS data
Alligator Back Overlook parking
36.420998,-81.189802
Longbottom Road
36.3752,-81.144746
Link to the video
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