Wed, Feb 23 2011 - NC Mountains: Chunky Gal Trail to Tusquitee Bald (View Original Event Details) Trip Leader(s): Tony C Participants: Tony C, Warren, Sarang Tipre

This was a somewhat perplexing hike because it is not any farther of a drive than Siler Bald or Standing Indian, yet you never hear people talk about this one.  But it was just a superb trail in all respects...included walking along a beautiful creek with a few easy crossings, a challenging (but reasonable) climb, and just breathtaking panoramic views at the top.

We started out at about 3000' elevation at the trailhead and 3.3 miles later, reached 5240' and the summit of Tusquitee Bald.  We took the Fires Creek Rim Trail closer to Signal Bald and then bushwhacked the last tenth of a mile to the summit.  This is actually the highest point in the Tusquitee Mtn range (about 5280').  We also visited Weatherman Bald and Potrock Bald.

Thanks to Sarang and Warren for playing hooky with me today and getting up there and checking it out.   It is definitely now on my short list of dayhikes within driving distance of Atlanta...hope to offer this one again and convince some other trip leaders to do so as well.  - Tony C