Johns Rock Hike

After a relaxing morning at camp we decided to clean up and take a hike in the Pisgah National Forest.  Chip had the map out and started plotting a hike that wouldn't cross too many contour lines. I felt like the view at the top would be better at requested a hike to the top of John's Rock, a hike that Chip agreed to.  

The trail to the top started at the Cat Gap Loop trail.  There were several creek crossings along the Cat Gap trail, but no sign of any cats (or Beagles).  

We cut off of the Cat Gap Trail where it intersected with the trail to the top of John's Rock.  There are a lot less switch backs on this trail compared to the Looking Glass trail.  We felt pushed for time and moved straight up the hill without many breaks.  We were well rewarded at the top with great views into the mountains.

We also had a great look back at Looking Glass Rock where we had stood the day before.

Just beyond the overlook, I posed for a photo at the summit of John's Rock and then started our way back down.

On the way down we had the option of the 2nd half of the Cat Gap Loop trail or the Cat Gap By-Pass.  After pushing hard to reach the top in record time we both opted for the By-Pass route.

Before we hit the parking lot we spotted a few unique things.  My favorite was this guy in an orange hunting outfit.  He was sitting in a tree stand with a rifle in his lap.  Look to the left of the tree trunk, the one that says "NO HUNTING", and you will see his orange jacket.

Maybe he wasn't hunting.  Or maybe the he felt like the tree itself was the safety zone.   Another sign was posted behind a fence that appeared near the end of the trail.  It says "Research Area Stay on Trail".

 Shortly after the hunter and research areas we found ourselves back in the parking lot.  Just in time to drive back to camp and start some campfire meat loaf.  It was a well earned dinner after crossing over all those contour lines on the map.