Zone 9
Appalachians (Pennsylvania, Maryland, West Virginia, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia)
Pennsylvania
Ringing Rocks Loop
0.9 mile loop; 130ft. elevation gain; Moderately Strenuous
It may seem strange, but the rocks along the Ringing Rocks Loop actually do ring. Don’t believe me? Bring a small hammer and try out the different tones in the boulder field. A waterfall completes the experience.
Maryland
Sugarloaf Loop
7.6 mile loop; 1,187ft. elevation gain; Moderately Strenuous
Views and woodlands feature on the Sugarloaf Loop. The most difficult section comes first, as the trail climbs up to the summit for some great views, and then it continues through the woods to loop more gently back to the parking area.
West Virginia
Spruce Knob/Seneca Creek
16.5 mile lollipop loop; 2,310ft. elevation gain; Strenuous
The Spruce Knob/Seneca Creek route has some of the best views you’ll find along a trail in Virginia. It also has fantastic streams, so you’ll rarely be at a loss for some interest along the trail. You probably won’t have this route to yourself, but it’s not super-popular, so go during the week and it should be a clear, empty trail.
Virginia
Hawksbill Mountain/Franklin Cliffs
9.2 miles out & back; 1,980ft. elevation gain; Moderate
Be in the mood for some great views when you hike Hawksbill Mountain and Franklin Cliffs. The route utilizes the AT as well as other trails to give you views that will leave a smile on your face all day.
North Carolina
Maple Camp Bald and the Central Black Mountains
8.0 mile loop; 1,675ft. elevation gain; Strenuous
Start the hike to Maple Camp Bald early to miss the crowds at the trailhead. Once you’re on the trail, the noise and chaos of the parking area will be left behind as you explore a rarely-used trail. Of course, the hike ends on Mt. Mitchell, the tallest peak in the Eastern US and therefore quite crowded, but you’ll have enjoyed a day (and plenty of views!) with fewer people around.
South Carolina
Carrick Creek Loop
1.9 mile lollipop loop; 396ft. elevation gain; Moderate
The Carrick Creek Loop isn’t terribly long, but it is fun. Besides several small creek crossings, there is also a waterfall.
Georgia
Appalachian Trail: Woody Gap to Gooch Gap Mountain Shelter
10.3 miles out & back; 1,490ft. elevation gain; Moderately Strenuous
Enjoy spectacular views along the Woody Gap to Gooch Gap Mountain Shelter section of the AT. The route can be popular, but the fall colors make it well worth the effort.
Zone 10
New England & Atlantic Coast (Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New Jersey, Delaware)
Maine
Helon Taylor, Knife Edge, Saddle, and Chimney Pond Trail
9.8 mile loop; 3,917ft. elevation gain; Strenuous
There’s nothing easy about the Helon Taylor, Knife Edge, Saddle, and Chimney Pond Trail. From near-technical climbs to boulder scrambles, the hike is sure to be a challenge – and have great views along the way.
New Hampshire
Mt. Adams via Lowe’s Path and King Ravine
8.7 mile lollipop loop; 4,101ft. elevation gain; Moderate
For great views and a fun hike, check out the trail up Mount Adams. With waterfalls, boulders, and caves (besides just the views), this is sure to be a favorite hike!
Vermont
Sunset Ridge & Long Trail Loop
5.9 mile lollipop loop with spur; 2,687ft. elevation gain; Strenuous
Catch the highest point in Vermont on your way around the Sunset Ridge and Long Trail Loop. Views of the Champlain Valley and the Adirondacks are excellent.
Massachusetts
Bare Mountain
1.1 miles out & back; 488ft. elevation gain; Moderate
A quick hike with a nice little view, the trail up Bare Mountain is still steep and somewhat adventurous. Go on a misty day to watch the fog roll over the nearby peaks and valleys or on a clear day to enjoy the view.
Connecticut
Will Warren’s Den and Lookout
2.5 miles out & back; 422ft. elevation gain; Moderately Strenuous
The path to Will Warren’s Den and Lookout traverses Trap Rock Ridge and Rattlesnake Mountain, showcasin a number of caves along with the viewpoint. The area was named for a hermit of questionable character who hid from the law on the mountain.
New Jersey
Torne Mountain & Osio Rock
2.7 miles out & back; 565ft. elevation gain; Moderate
There are a few very interesting things about the Torne Mountain & Osio Rock Trail that make it well worth the hike. First, there are views galore, including the New York City Skyline. Second, a stone living room is a unique little side-trek.
Delaware
Killens Pond Loop
2.6 mile loop; 82ft. elevation gain; Easy
Hike, run, or stroll around Killen Pond on this short loop. Various trails connect to the loop, so you can extend your hike into the nearby forest if you want.
