Sat, Nov 21 2020 - Albert Mountain/ Standing Indian Loop - no carpool (View Original Event Details) Trip Leader(s): Steve H Participants: Steve H, Pam M, Ann, Ralph Howard, Ray Stewart, Charles

Six strong hikers completed this absolutely perfect loop hike on the trail in North Carolina. Starting at the blue blazed Long Branch Trail from the Standing Indian Campground. Once we ascended 1.5 miles to the AT, took a right turn at Glasmine Gap and then 5 miles later reached our first 5k ft peak and the fire tower at Albert Mountain (5249 ft). This is the 100 mile point from the southern terminus of the AT at Springer Mountain. The day was so clear, we had amazing views of three states. After hiking another 5 miles we stopped for lunch at another overlook with great view to the east toward Rabun Bald and Sky Valley. Our final stop of the day was at mile 18, a short side trail reached the second 5k peak of the day was Standing Indian (5499 ft). With southwesterly exposure and sun sinking lower on the horizon, we could clearly see Lake Chatugue and Hiawassee strattling the Georgia and North Carolina border. After chatting with some friendly scouts and their leaders, snapping a few pictures, we left the AT and took the lower ridge trail another 4 miles back down to the campground. Truly maximized daylight on this hike with early start at 8am and finished just before dark back to our cars at 5:30pm as the sun was setting. Couldn't ask for a better day!