Lonesome Pine Overlook

The Lonesome Pine Overlook is located on the Noland Divide Trail, roughly 3.3 miles from the trailhead in the Deep Creek area of the Great Smoky Mountains. This is an outstanding hike if you're seeking a little bit of solitude and some incredible views of the Southern Smokies. The overlook also offers commanding views of the Nantahala Mountains and Bryson City as well.

The trail climbs more than 2300 feet to reach the overlook. Of course we had to have a little drama along the way as a result of a couple of large downed trees that were blocking the trail. The first one (pictured below), although it looks pretty bad, didn't give us too much of a problem. However, the second one, about 3/4 of a mile from the top was much worse.

As we approached the downed tree it looked pretty bad. We decided our best bet was to go around the tree, which required a fairly difficult climb of about 50 feet up the steep hill side. The steepness and the dead leaves made it quite difficult to get traction. In the process Kathy ripped her fleece jacket, which she was none too pleased about.

On our return, with a different vantage point, we discovered that there actually was a passable path through the downed tree. So, basically, Kathy ripped her jacket for no reason.

Below are a few photos from or near the Lonesome Pine Overlook:


For more in-depth information on hiking to the Lonesome Pine Overlook, please click here.

Jeff
HikingintheSmokys.com Detailed information on trails in the Smoky Mountains; includes trail descriptions, key features, pictures, video, maps, elevation profiles, news, hiking gear store, and more.