Favorite Hikes of 2018

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Everyone has a favorite hike. Some are popular because of the view or waterfall or because they're easy to get to. Sometimes a hike is just perfect and you can't explain why. It just is. It won't be next time, but this time, it's perfect. If you're interested in what my favorite hikes of this year were, here's a list of the one's I enjoyed the most at the time of hiking them.

Pinnacle Knob via Warwoman Dell

8.6 mi

12.6

This was a surprise for me. A relatively easy longer trail with two great waterfalls on the way, especially Martin Creek Falls. And the views at the top are amazing. Standing on the rocky overlook with the wind blowing in my face I really "felt" the view.

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Rabun Bald via Beegum Gap

3.1 mi

6.1

This was the perfect short day hike. I got to the observation deck just as a group was leaving. I had the summit all to myself for a good 20 minutes before heading back down. High winds cooled me while the sun warmed me up. It was perfect.

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Siler Bald via Winding Stair Gap

8.7 mi

12.3

Initially disappointed that this was easier than I anticipated, this section of the Appalachian Trail to Siler Bald was an enjoyable hike on a cool early autumn day. And the 360-degree views at the top can't be beat.

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The Pinnacle and Blackrock Mountain

10 mi

27.8

Two amazing views await you on this difficult hike. I can't say I miss the rocky path, but any and all complaints are quickly forgotten once you're looking out over some of the best views in the southeast.

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Blood Mountain via Bear Hair Gap Trail

9.2 mi

16.1

My new favorite way up Blood Mountain, this lollipop loop avoids the crowds of other trails. I enjoyed most of this hike in solitude, which was even nicer when the summit had at least 50 people coming and going.

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Turtletown Creek Falls Loop

3.8 mi

5.6

Not enough people know about this excellent loop with two amazing waterfalls. The upper Turtletown Creek Falls is one of the most scenic in the southeast.

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Cowrock Mountain via Hogpen Gap

4.1 mi

13.1

The slightly longer route to Cowrock Mountain, this trail adds a strenuous short climb at the very end on the way back when you're legs are already jelly from coming down. Good times.

A short hike to an amazing view. Sometimes the simple hikes are best.

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Scaly Mountain via Osage Overlook

3.6 mi

8.1

There is a shorter route to Scaly Mountain, but the Bartram Trail provides a tough climb making the view at the top all the more worthwhile.

If you're looking for a great view, there are better than this. But if you want to test out your trail legs, then the 1000 feet of elevation gain in the first 1.3 miles should do the trick.

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Disclaimer: Hiking can be dangerous. The information on this site is meant as a guide and represents trail conditions at a given time. Always let someone know where you are going. A basic knowledge of first aid, backcountry navigation, and some common sense are highly encouraged. The difficulty and duration ratings are subjective and will not be representative of everyone's experience.

Disclaimer Disclaimer: Falling off a cliff, drowning in a river, or being eaten by a bear is still a better way to go than dying of a heart attack while sitting in traffic on the way to the office.