Peakbagging - Double Spring Knob (4280’)

Commonly known as "Kelly Knob" to AT hikers, Double Spring Knob is 4280' above sea level with 920' of clean prominence. It is actually tied with #7 Coosa Bald as far as elevation goes, but it has less prominence, so that's why it falls below it on the list. The photo of Kelly Knob, taken looking southwest from a recent Eagle mountain hike.

Almost all of our hike will be along the AT (Appalachian Trail). We begin at Dicks Creek Gap, and it's a good climb of about 2000 feet over about 5 miles to the top. Along the way we will make a quick stop at the first lookout, which is reached by a short side trail.

The actual summit of Double Spring is just off of the AT, so if you want to get to the very top, a little light "bushwhacking" will be required...just about 1/10 of a mile and up about 120ft.  It isn't that difficult on this terrain. There is no view from the summit, but once we regain the AT, we go a few paces offtrail and take in a panoramic view to the east/north east. Rabun Bald stands in front of us; moving to the left we can see Whiteside, Yellow Mtn, Albert, and Standing Indian, to name a few nearby favorites.

To really appreciate the mountain's distinctive sweeping contour on the south side, we will descend to Addis Gap, turn around, and retrace our steps back to the top, a climb of 800 ft. But before we reach the very top, we will stop at a point where we have a nice view to the west and have lunch. Tray Mtn looms to the right, from where we can trace the AT over Rocky Mtn, through Unicoi Gap, over Blue Mtn, and via Jack's Knob Trail to Brasstown Bald. After lunch we will return to Dicks Creek the way we came.

Total distance is about 12 miles and total ascent is about 3200 ft. Total time on the trail is about 7 hours, which includes 30 minutes for lunch. We may stop in Cleveland for supper as a game day decision.

This is MODERATE pace hike. That doesn't mean fast, but also not slow, but we will need to move at average speed of 2.5 mph to finish the hike in the time scheduled.

Notes:

1.  Itinerary is subject to change anytime at the discretion of the trip leader(s).

2.  We will take breaks to allow the group to stay together, with MODERATE speed while we are moving. 

3.  The trip leader(s) reserves the right to consider participant's past history and to make the final determination for participation on this hike.

4. Hydration will be important. There will be a few water sources along the way, if you want to bring a filter. 

5. If not carpooling, arrive at 8:15 am, ready to hike. We will leave the Dick's Creek parking lot to begin the hike at 8:30 am. 

6. Up to 2 well-behaved dogs will be permitted, assuming it is not too hot. Contact me in advance if you want to bring your K-9.

Many thanks to Dorothea for the previous write up.

Dicks Creek Trailhead is located on GA-76

Because this a D5 event, if you have not recently completed some tough AOC hikes, we may be contacting you to determine your level of fitness and experience to make sure this is the right hike for you.