Cole Mountain, Virginia-There is actually a nice Mountain Bald about 1 mile up the mountain from here. But this is where I connected with the mountain, at the base in the glades of dusk light painting the trees and forest floor.
The views from Grayson Highlands State Park, on and along the AT are like no other place I have encountered on the AT. In the distance, you can see Mt. Rogers, the highest peak in Virginia.
Franconia Ridge, NH is a humbling experience along the AT. Making its way through the legendary White Mountains, the AT here is a challenge worth hiking but with the utmost respect for weather and nature. Be prepared, be strong, be smart in the Whites.
Bears Den VA-Moon over Clarke County VA
Sunrise at McAfee Knob VA-The most photographed spot on the AT
Black Rock Summit-Shenandoah National Park
Home of the worlds worst weather-Mt. Washington NH. Another famous spot in the White Mountains the AT will deliver you to. The weather here is hard to predict. It can change on a dime and you must be prepared. Kissing a jet stream, Mt Washington at 6,288 ft in elevation can treat you to clouds, hurricane force winds, ice and snow and below freezing temps which is why there is a famous weather observatory here.
The AT will take you through "The Rooftop of Virginia" Grayson County where you will see epic views and, if you're lucky, wild ponies and longhorns. If you are sweaty and salty or have any food in your bag, you will have new friends along this section of the trail.
