March Meet Up Hike - Linville Gorge the Chimneys and Table Rock Hike

Linville Gorge the Chimneys and Table Rock Hike

Hike Leader:  Sulli

8 Miles

2500’ Elevation Gain

Hike Rating: Very Strenuous

Speed: Moderate at 2 mph

Linville Gorge is nicknamed the Grand Canyon of the East.  It is an amazing area with awesome views but is also includes rugged terrain and steep walls/cliffs.  Although this is only 8 miles there is a lot of elevation, some rock scrambling, and points of narrow cliff line trails.  Please make sure that you are comfortable with these conditions.

The hike will begin at Spencer Ridge off the Table Rock Road.  This a dirt and gravel road which can be slippery when wet.  Parking is limited.  It is best to get there early.   We will begin our adventure heading up the Spencer Ridge Trail to Little Table Rock Trail.  After ¾ of a mile we will begin the longest steepest section the hike which is 1000’ of elevation over 1 mile.  We will then hike on the MST away from Table Rock on a ridge line through the Chimneys to the Amphitheater.  Along the way you will have incredible views of the Linville Gorge, Shortoff and the Blue Ridge Mountains.  We will return back and summit Table Rock for more views of the Gorge and Hawksbill.  We will them make our way back to Little Table Rock for our last view of Linville Gorge.  Last but not least we will make our way back down our beginning 1000’ steep section to the cars.

Trekking Poles are highly recommended.  There are steep sections and high rock steps which can be difficult without poles.  Please bring at least 2 liters of water.  The weather is unpredictable.  Please bring layers and rain gear.  On a sunny day there is a lot of exposure.  Hats and sunscreen are encouraged.

Weather:  Table Rock Weather

Here is a little hiker advice.  This is a 2 hour and 15-minute drive to the trailhead.  Bring a second breakfast to get your nutrition in the parking lot before our first climb.  This is a practice I do for nearly all hikes greater that 1 hour away.