Hike the Trombatore Trail to Blue Ridge Pastures

Park along the road at Bearwallow Gap - this is also the parking area for Bearwallow Mountain. Starting at a little over 3600ft, the Trombatore Trail has been well marked by the Carolina Mountain Land Conservancy with red blazes. Parts of the trail border private land, so pay attention to the signage. There is a small spring about 2 miles into the trail that you can filter water from if needed.

The last push before hitting the pastures can get you breathing pretty hard, so take your time and enjoy your surroundings. There is a ladder stile you cross - make sure you have your pup on a leash by this point or he may get caught in the barbed wire around it. 

Once you've reached the pastures it's time to sit down and enjoy the view. There is a collection of logs around a fire ring just begging for you to take a nap. On a clear day you can see the Great Craggy Mountains past Hickory Nut Gorge with Little Bearwallow Mountain in the foreground. After you've had your fill of snacks and the view, turn around and head back to Bearwallow Gap.