Albert Mountain/ Standing Indian Loop - Fall classic

This is a clockwise, daylight maximizing hike. Starting at The Standing Indian Campground Backcountry Kiosk (3,950) we will take the Long Branch Trail (east-blue blaze) and intersect with the Appalachian Trail (Glassmine Gap 4,000) We will turn (right) southeast on the A/T to Albert Mountain (5,249) for our first break. After the break we'll proceed to Carter Gap (3,750) at around the half way point of our hike for lunch. After lunch break we start northwest to Standing Indian Mountain.(5,500 ft) After taking in the view we change trails and go north on The Lower Ridge Trail for a sharp descent of around 1,700 ft in 3.75 miles back to the cars. In summary, this is a good, long loop trail - including 15 miles of The AT, 2 major summits with spectacular views! It really does not involve any major climbs! - but lt is long distance. The mountain travel is moderate for a D-6 around 5,100 ft elevation gain. I will request A.O.C. experienced D-5 & D-6 hikes with over several 15 mile North Georgia Mountain hikes within the last 6 months ...The Trip leader does reserve the right to move you back to the waiting list if needed. 

The speed of this hike is MODERATE, so we need to average 2.5 mph to finish this before dark.  

The Standing Indian Campground will be closed for the season, but the road and trails should be open, weather permitting. The Hurricane Creek Primitive Campground should be open.

Credit to Chuck R/Stefan for the picture and trip write-up.

https://goo.gl/maps/LNY9s4ZCizWmeHbc7

GPS Cordinates 35.076616 , -83.528391