Coosa Bald (via Wildcat Gap) - April 20, 2013 - Member Trip Report
| Hike Name: | Coosa Bald (via Wildcat Gap) |
|---|---|
| Country: | United States |
| State: | Georgia |
| Trip Rating: |  |
| Trip Date: | April 20, 2013 |
| Duration: | 2 days |
| Trail Conditions: | Excellent |
| Trail Traffic: | Light |
| Trip Weather: | Sunny, Partly Sunny, Partly Cloudy |
| Trip Winds: | Light to Moderate |
| Trip Precipitation: | None |
| Trip Temperature: | High: 61-70, Low: 41-50 degrees Fahrenheit |
| Trip Report: | Saturday (4/20/13) – (Atlanta/Coosa Bald) – Sunny and unseasonably cool. Temps to 60’s H, 30’s L. Phillip called around 10am and was stuck in a traffic jam on GA 400. So he opted to drive separately. Ironically, he beat us to Neel’s Gap by 30-40 minutes while The Weasel and son met at the house and rode with us to the Kroger in Dawsonville where we met Ken M. and son. Drove through a nearby Wendy’s for lunch, then headed North to meet Phillip. Neel’s Gap was busy (as usual) and we stopped to let the dogs out and to snap a few photos of hiking boots hanging in the trees above the hostel. The plan was to start our hike to Coosa Bald from Calf Stomp Gap, but we followed Duncan Ridge Road and ended up at Wildcat Gap – less than a mile from the summit. This was unintentional, but it made for a shorter and less steep ascent to Coosa Bald – a bonus since we were carrying water. (For the record – a two-wheel drive vehicle or one with limited clearance would be a disaster on Duncan Ridge Road). From Wildcat Gap, we started the climb around noon. Phillip led the way and it was a slow and steady 500’ ascent to the summit. There are fewer campsites than I remember on Coosa Bald and we spent 30 minutes weighing our options. The Weasel’s discovery on the north side of the ridge turned out to be the most roomy campsite - with the least (albeit mostly obstructed) views. So we pitched here after exploring some sites further down the mountain. For some reason, buckeye nuts were plentiful in the area and the kids had a big time collecting them. In contrast, the adults collected wood (which is plentiful on Coosa Bald) and it’s clear that these campsites are rarely used. After setting up camp, Ken M. opted for a beer run (with our encouragement) and may have earned a trail name in the process. It takes about 20 minutes to descend from Wildcat Gap to Coosa Bald, but the return trip is much harder – especially with a six pack. In addition to the spirits, Ken also gets kudos for saving my dinner this evening. Somehow I snagged my skillet handle on my pants and managed to flip a perfectly cooked meal of chicken, vegetables, and potatoes on the ground after I passed Will his portion. Fortunately, the Weasel came through with additional potatoes, Phillip delivered with Coos Coos, and Ken M. offered up some left over kielbasa. I had pasta and potatoes in reserve, but the Boyz had my back tonight. It took some time, but we stoked up a nice fire tonight and caught winter views from Coosa Bald on multiple occasions. Atlanta has full leaves on the trees right now – but at 4200’ there are only a few tiny buds which permit outstanding views to the South and West. Too bad we are missing a meteor shower by one day, because it’s supposed to run all night on Sunday. Late night, the kids played cards in the tent with my iPhone and Kevin opted to hang with the big boys. Made it until about 11:30pm, then sacked out for the night. Sunday (4/21/13) – (Coosa Bald/Atlanta) Sunny, warmer, temps to upper 60’s H, 40’s L. Ken M. had a fire going when I rolled out of the tent this morning. It was chilly and a welcome site – although I was the last to rise around 8am. Decided to skip breakfast and head for town to get breakfast. It took about an hour to pack up, and another 30 minutes to hike out. Phillip suggested a stop at the Sidewinder Café near the Helen, GA junction. It was a great call – slow, but solid. Our group was the only one to be in the café/quickie mart this morning for breakfast. Made it home by 1pm and had plenty of time to make a 3:30pm soccer game. All said – a great weekend, even if the blazes on the Coosa Backcountry Trail are now lime green and not yellow. |
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