"The Mysterious One" and I accessed this trail from the pull-off parking beside Laurel Creek Rd as you drive towards Cades Cove. There are several pull-offs that are parallel to the road near the intersection of Finley Cane, Turkeypen Ridge, Crib Gap, and Lead Cove trails.
Find the trails' intersection on your map.
This 1.8 mile jaunt which makes up the Lead Cove trail, takes you
up to the Bote Mtn. Trail where you can go right and continue 2.9 mls to the AT, and the Spence Field Shelter, or left and down to several trail intersections and eventually campsite #18. Another two miles along the West Prong trail an you'll reach the Institute at Tremont.
Lead Cove and other trails which connect with Bote Mtn. trail can be used as portions of great day hikes if you have a shuttle or two vehicles. Some longer day hikes/loops can also be mapped out.
About a 1/4 ml. in we surprised a sleeping bear. Needless to say it surprised us as well!
This 1.8 mls is a moderately difficult hike primarily because of the consistent incline throughout the 1.8 mls. The terrain and foliage was beautiful with a few late summer vistas along the way.
Nice! You sent me on a loop out that way last July. Bote Mountain - Finley Cane - Turkeypen Ridge - Schoolhouse Gap. Hope I get to explore that area some more soon.
ReplyDeletePatrick,
ReplyDeleteWho the hell approved that land rape atop rich mtn loop with the road? I knew nothing of this until passing you there the other day. That is total derelection of duty by the county commission. You have any info?
John Quillen