This was supposed to be a 4.5 mile “easy” loop hike on the Sugarloaf, Appalachian, and Piney Branch trails. I started off from the parking lot at the old ranger station, where I saw a deer.
After walking down the Piney Ridge Trail for a while (downhill), I reached the Piney River.
It was hot, I was tired, and by my look at the map, I’d gone about 1/4 of the loop. I decided (wisely) to turn around and not do the rest. I hate turning around on loops, and giving up, but it was definitely the right call.
Piney Branch to Piney River
10/2/21
3.19 mi
512 ft elevation gain
4/5 stars