Backpack to Stratton Bald in Joyce Kilmer-Slickrock Wilderness

The United States Congress designated the Joyce Kilmer-Slickrock Wilderness in 1975 and it now has a total of 17,394 acres. North Carolina contains approximately 13,562 acres. Tennessee contains approximately 3,832 acres. It is managed by the Forest Service. The Joyce Kilmer-Slickrock Wilderness is bordered by the Citico Creek Wilderness to the west.

Stratton Bald is one of the highest points in the Wilderness at 5240 ft.  Its a large bald with acres of open area, a reliable water source, and plenty of available campsites, with of course great views all around.

From Beech Gap trailhead on the Cherohala Skyway, we will hike a total of 3.5 miles, with an elevation gain of about 1000', to Bob Stratton Bald. The first couple miles follows an old road, and is fairly easy with great views here and there. The next mile gives us almost all of our elevation gain, but if you take your time it's worth the climb, because the views at the bald are beautiful.

After we eat lunch, set up camp, and collect some firewood, I will be leading whoever wants to join on a day hike to Hangover for some breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. It's a 6 mile round trip walk along the ridgeline, first going down to Naked Ground, then beyond to Hangover, sometimes on a gorgeous and narrow ridgeline. I'm hoping this time of year, we'll get the added bonus of the fall turnover. The promo picture I used for this trip was one I took from the top of Hangover in mid-Oct in 2010.

Late Sunday morning, at approximately 11am, unless it's bad weather, we'll start our hike back down to Beech Gap. If the weather is bad, we can decide that morning to leave earlier. I enjoy early mornings on top of this ridge, so you're free to sleep in a little late, or just enjoy the morning to do whatever you want, as long as you're ready to start the hike down with the group at the predetermined time.

My plan is to stop in Tellico Plains to eat on the way home. It's become somewhat of a tradition to enjoy the food and drink and comaraderie after a good hike in the woods at the Crab Trap. If this is not an option for you, you can discuss this at the carpool prior to departure.

NOTE: We will allow a maximum of two well behaved dogs on this trip. See additional notes below.

Directions TO the event:  http://goo.gl/maps/NX3wi

There is a limit of two dogs on this trip. They must be well trained and get along with both people and other dogs. Please contact Michael J. if you plan to bring a dog.