Summit Sunset Series #4 - Stone Mountain (+Moonrise)

This fourth in the Summit Sunset Series where we will enjoy sunsets from some of the finest scenic viewpoints in GA...all on or near mountain peaks.  If you've never had this experience, you don't know what you're missing, so time to find out...

For this one, we are going to pick an obvious choice but one that is often overlooked somehow.  Stone Mountain is an excellent location from which to view the sunset...it should set not far on the horizon from the downtown Atlanta skyline so should provide a nice backdrop for that as well.

Sunset is at 6:33PM, but more importantly an added bonus is that Moonrise is at 6:55PM.   So while it may not be completely dark by then, it should be very cool to watch the moon rise in the east....St Mtn pretty much has 360 degree panoramic views, so we should be able to see both in just about a half hour.  Bring your cameras and tripods, etc and maybe we can get some good photos.

Total distance is about 3 miles and elevation gain is about 650 feet.  It is a short little hike, but of course you are welcome to get there early and do some extra hiking on the Cherokee Trail or wherever if you'd like.

We will maintain an easy pace allowing the group to stay together. We will meet near the start of the walk-up trail behind the large parking lot beside Confederate Hall. There is an $8 parking fee to enter the park; however, free public parking is available in Stone Mountain Village. See directions below...

If you would like to try the free public parking in Stone Mountain Village, from Hwy 78 take exit 5 and merge onto GA 10. Proceed 0.5 miles to the first exit. At the end of the ramp turn left. Drive a mile or so, past a gas station and a funeral parlor (both on your right). When you see City Hall turn left. There is a Marta park and ride on fourth street. From there it is a short walk on East Mountain Street. Enter the park through the gate and you'll be at the parking lot where we'll be meeting.

Additional directions and maps can be found at:
http://stonemountainpark.com/default.aspx

To the main entrance- From I-285 take U.S. Hwy 78 East (Snellville/Athens) exit. Travel about 7 miles and take Exit 8, the Stone Mountain Park Main Entrance. After entering the main entrance, proceed straight ahead. The road will fork at about 1 mile - stay to the right. Continue to follow the road for another mile. Confederate Hall will be on your left. The parking lot will be immediately after. We'll meet behind Confederate Hall near the walk up trail.