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Wednesday–February 17, 2021
Trail Day–005
Trail Mile–6.8/28.2
Location–Terrapin Hill Trailhead, then to US-231/CR-56
Today’s not shaping well for hiking. Cloudy and cold, 18 degrees this morning at seven. But by noon the local mush has cleared out, temps have climbed into the 40s and the sky’s turned all around blue. So the decision–time for another day hike; Terrapin Hill here I come!
A few text messages to a few hiking friends, and by one I’ve a hiking partner for the day–Emily Campbell.
Plans all worked out, Emily comes, picks me up, and we’re soon at the Terrapin Hill trailhead. Arrangements have been made for Joe Jones to come for us at the completion of our hike today. So, a little past two, and after signing the mailbox trail register, we’re off and hiking this beautiful Pinhoti Trail section–Terrapin Hill.
The well-groomed trail begins by leading up beside a little joyful brook to finally break away to meander the lower ridges before beginning the ascent of Terrapin Hill. The climb is not difficult but it’s certainly steady, as the trail negotiates the many smaller ridges leading to the mountain summit. Terrapin Hill is actually taller than Flagg Mountain (farther north than Flagg though) so the ascent takes awhile.
Once on top, many fine views across nearby ridges are offered us, all the way back to the summit of Flagg Mountain.
Beginning our descent from Terrapin, Emily takes a call from Joe. He’ll be waiting for us when we finish.
As evening comes on, comes a bit of chill, but the rain holds off until we reach the highway. At 6:30 and at the northern Terrapin Hill trailhead, Joe’s right here waiting.
Thanks Emily! Thanks Joe! Just a mighty fine day…
There are two kinds of climbers:
those who climb because their heart sings when they’re in the mountains…
and all the rest.
(Alex Lowe)
