AppVoices-column-AcrossAppalachia

Hiking the Highlands

Journey to delightful trails, inspiring overlooks and refreshing swimming holes in the Appalachian range

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Climbing the Highlands

Appalachia offers climbers challenging routes in beautiful settings, and the region’s geology invites adventurers of all styles and abilities. And in return, the sport of climbing provides an opportunity for economic development for areas around these rock formations.

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The Hidden Gem of Rocky Fork

This moderately strenuous hike through the mountains of eastern Tennessee follows an old logging trail to the 100-foot Big Falls on Lower Higgens Creek. Several creek crossings and caves mark the remainder of the path to Birchfield Camp Lake.

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Trek to the Top of Mt. Cammerer

Enjoy a strenuous 11-mile hike to the top of Mt. Cammerer, located in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The hike culminates with a view of the Pigeon River Gorge 3,000 feet below and the opportunity to stroll around the catwalk of the historic fire tower at Mt. Cammerer’s peak.

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Rails To Trails

Former railways have been converted into beautiful biking and hiking trails across Appalachia.

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A resident of Big Island, Va., wades into the swimming hole on the Devil’s Fork Trail, which hikers encounter before reaching the Devil’s Bathtub. Photo by Joe Tennis

Cooling off in the Devil’s Bathtub

Hikers flock to the cool swimming spots along the Devil’s Bathtub Trail in southwest Virginia, though the trail can be challenging.

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