When we shared our first experience on Three Top Mountain in July of this year, it was an unfortunately stormy day and we were chased off the summit by wind and lightening far too soon. But in spite of the storm’s best efforts, we realized that it was a place worth returning to, especially in the fall when the autumn leaves begin their annual transformation that is so irresistibly beautiful.
As we have already shared our previous (and rather rainy) adventure on Three Top with you, the purpose of this post is not to swap trail-tales, but to instead share the autumnal views from the top. Even though the lens of a camera can never capture what it’s truly like to experience fall in Appalachia, it can perhaps inspire you to lace up your boots and to go hunting for that perfect autumn trail.
(For information on hiking Three Top, please refer to our original post below.)
View toward Creston, NC; Mountain Ash in foreground
Eastern view from summit
Eastern view; Mountain Ash in foreground
At the top, you can follow this rock outcropping toward an "unofficial" (and dangerous) trail that leads to the outermost edges of the peak. I don't advise doing it, but know some that have!
Southern view from summit
View toward Elk Knob & Snake Mtn.
Soapwort (or Appalachian) Gentian found along trail during autumn months
Hike it: For additional information on hiking Three Top, please visit our original blog post: Three Top
Entry by Lori Beth
Hiking the High Country 