Lake Winfield Scott Loop

County: Union
Distance: 6 mile loop
Elevation: 3920
Difficulty: Moderate
Markings: Okay - Blue & White

On November 17, 2008, the Hiking Chicks achieved a new level of daring! We were originally set to hike Slaughter Creek Trail (in and out), but a friend of SnowFlake's warned that it was "a bit challenging". At the last moment--and I mean truly the last moment--we decided to make the loop that was supposedly a bit easier, even though it was a little bit longer. And all in 30-40 degrees Farenheit! Yes, there was even a little snow on the ground at the split of the AT and the Slaughter Creek Trail. We decided to enjoy the moment and have lunch rather than concentrate too much on the temperature.

This loop starts with a gradual ascent on the Jarrard Gap Trail from Lake Winfield Scott, which intersects with the Appalachian Trail after a mile. 2.4 miles on the AT then a left on the Slaughter Creek Trail on the back side of Blood Mountain. Another 2.7 miles and you're back at Lake Winfield Scott.

When the thermostat read 31 degrees after a fulfilling breakfast at Just Off the Square Cafe in Dahlonega, we thought we might have chosen the wrong day, but we were wrong. As with most hikes, as long as you layer well, you can remain comfortable throughout the day. The leaves have, for the most part, already fallen, so even though it was twiggy, the views were spectacular. Within 1/2 mile, we were already surrounded by mountain ranges on both sides of our steady ascent to the foot of Blood Mountain. The pictures just don't do it justice.

Since we changed our plan at the last minute, we didn't make the ascent all the way to the top of Blood Mountain (that will be the plan for the next time), but after descending the Slaughter Creek Trail, we were thankful that we had ascended via Jarrad Gap.

The diversity of the scenery was our favorite thing about this hike. From Blood Mountain and Slaughter Mountain looming before us to mountain laurel covered passes, there was beauty with every step. There are parts of the AT and Slaughter Creek Trail that are narrow with a long drop to the side, but definitely passable. We were a bit dismayed at the sign of campfires, especially knowing the drought in our area, but we hope we were successful at leaving no trace.

A new hiking chick, christened TrailBlazer for her prowess at leading the pack, joined us on this trip and it was, in a unanonymous vote, our favorite hike to date. All she needs now is the shirt to make her official. We knew she was a shoe-in when we had just gotten started and she asked when our next hike would be. What a trooper. We missed two other new hiking chicks who planned to join us, but who will remain nameless until they've earned their Hiking Chick name badges!

We all give this hike a 10!

Pura Vida,
Bubbles