A fantastic, classic summit hike starts in the shadows of a deep valley and culminates atop one of Western North Carolina’s preeminent 5000-footers. The hike features widely varied scenery in an area managed as wilderness, yet the trails are well marked, blazed, an maintained. Follows a historical railroad along one particularly enjoyable segment. Features streamside forest scenes, a small waterfall, and panoramic views from the high points. This hike has a loop option for those looking to add a bit more adventure to the trip.