Hiking Flat Top

The Hike: We'll hike up 5.2 miles, round trip, up to the peak and back. The scenery going back down is even better because you are facing the views. Pack a lunch. We'll have a very manly picnic along the way :D. There is a lodge to grab drinks and dinner near the visitors center afterwards.

Difficulty: This is the taller of the 2 peaks. The starting elevation is 2,500 ft. The peak elevation is about 4,000. The cockspur part of the trail is the part that's a little difficult because it's so steep.

Where and When: We'll meet at 10 AM at the visitor center. 85919 Blue Ridge Pkwy Bedford, VA 24523-3795. (540) 587-4138

The beginning of trail is close by. We'll wait 15 in case someone has trouble getting there. I'll also email everyone that's going my phone number a few weeks before. The hike should take 3 to 4 hrs.

What to bring: Wear comfortable hiking shoes. According to the weather channel there will be a high of 77F and a low 56F . Pack a lunch, bring a snack to eat when hiking and plenty of water. Spray on insect repellent and sunscreen at trailhead.

Camping option: If there is enough interest we can get a campsite. You have to let me know in your comment box if you are interested in that a.s.a.p. so I can make the arrangements. 

Directions: Google maps makes it seem more complicated than it is. Once you are on 43 you can't miss it. There are too many signs.

from the west:  starting on I-81

6.	Take exit 162 for US-11 toward Buchanan		0.2 mi
7.	Slight right at Lee Hwy/US-11 (signs forBuchanan)		4.6 mi
8.	Slight right at Pkwy Dr/VA-43		4.7 mi
9.	Slight left onto the ramp to Blue Ridge Pkwy/VA-43		344 ft
10.	Turn left at Blue Ridge Pkwy/VA-43 Continue to follow Blue Ridge Pkwy Destination will be on the left

From the north:

8.	Take exit 167 for US-11 toward Buchanan		0.1 mi
9.	Turn left at Frontage Rd/Lee Hwy/US-11(signs for Buchanan) Continue to follow Lee Hwy/US-11		1.4 mi
10.	Turn left at Pkwy Dr/VA-43		4.7 mi
11.	Slight left onto the ramp to Blue Ridge Pkwy/VA-43		344 ft
12.	Turn left at Blue Ridge Pkwy/VA-43 Continue to follow Blue Ridge Pkwy Destination will be on the left		5.6 mi

From the east: off 460

2.	Take the US Hwy 460 Bus exit towardBedford		0.1 mi
3.	Turn right at E Main St (signs for Bedford)		1.3 mi
4.	Turn right at N Bridge St		0.3 mi
5.	Turn left at Peaks St/VA-43