The Priest and Three Ridges

These two major obstacles are often discussed on the trail. The Priest must be climbed up and over first. This is just to wear you out for the next one. It is a long steady climb to the summit but nothing to be concerned about. Between the Priest and Three Ridges is a deep valley and the crossing of the Tye River on a large suspension bridge.

I delayed my break until I was completely down The Priest, wanting to take a lunch at the Tye River crossing. Unfortunately, there was a large family down on the river so I found a rock well away from the noise. The family dog decided I was some kind of threat and came a long way to come find me and nearly attack me. I grabbed my stuff together and started up the Three Ridges until I felt safe enough to be away from the dog, then continued my break.

After my lunch, I started up Three Ridges. Somehow I missed the memo because I had no idea that Three Ridges would be such terrible tread, poorly designed and built trail. I would say that I was the most tired and angry on the Three Ridges than anywhere else on the AT. Luckily, it was only for the duration of the climb up. I have pretty good memories of the way down and had a good consultation about the trail with some day hikers on Hanging Rock Overlook. They explained the reputation this section has, and possible reasons it sucks so bad. This made me feel better because I was unaware and a bit concerned maybe I was just getting tired. The trail eventually hit the Blue Ridge Parkway, following nearby it for miles.